INFORMATION BY AND FOR THE TOWN OF LOS ALTOS HILLS | | |
August 17 - August 21
WEEK #34
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Hello Neighbors,
Welcome to the 34th edition of the 2026 Weekly! It’s been a busy and eventful week in Town as we head into the home stretch of August. Let's get you caught up on the latest Town updates, upcoming meetings, and community events.
Mayor Bhateja invites residents to stop by during his Office Hours at Town Hall. See below for updated hours and to book an appointment.
Last night, the City Council held its regularly scheduled August meeting, recognizing longtime volunteer George Lee and the Town’s 2026 Summer Interns and making several committee appointments, including nine members to the new Housing Element Implementation Committee. The Council also received the Fire District’s Ten-Year Budget Forecast, approved the Westwind Community Barn permit amendment, decided not to pursue the proposed Juan Bautista de Anza Historic Trail designation, approved the transition to Securitas for private security patrols, adopted an updated Purchasing Policy, and authorized an RFP for City Attorney Legal Services. The meeting adjourned at approximately midnight. A full recap can be found below.
The Town successfully completed its first live YouTube broadcast of a City Council meeting! See below for details on how to Subscribe be notified when the Town goes live.
The Community Development team provided several updates this week, including Council action on the Martha Lynn Tank House historic designation, State Density Bonus Law implementation, building permit extensions, and the Town’s Code Enforcement Program.
A huge Congratulations to Assistant Planner Bageshri Thakar and Planning Intern Lilac Shen on successfully passing their APA AICP certification exams, an important milestone recognizing their planning knowledge, expertise, and professional development!
For this week's Code Corner, the topic at hand is Understanding Site Development Reviews.
The Town of Los Altos Hills, in coordination with Genasys and the Emergency Preparedness & Response Committee (EPRC), will conduct a public demonstration and operational test of an emergency alert siren system at Purissima Park this Wednesday, August 26. Residents are encouraged to review the information below for testing details, what to expect, and additional information.
The Town of Los Altos Hills has partnered with Bob Murray & Associates to recruit its next Finance Director, with applications due September 27, 2026. More information can be found below.
We have another lovable friend up for adoption with Pets in Need.
Event Recaps:
The Town celebrated the completion of the Heritage House Upgrade Project with an August 19th ribbon-cutting ceremony attended by community members, Councilmembers, and County Supervisor Margaret Abe-Koga, who presented the Town with a Certificate of Commendation recognizing the opening of the upgraded facility.
Future Events:
- Join us this Saturday, August 22nd, at Rosita Park for the 8th Annual Los Altos vs. Los Altos Hills Adult Softball Game and enjoy a morning of friendly competition and community fun!
- Residents are encouraged to attend a free Wildfire Preparedness Workshop on Thursday, August 27th, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at the Los Altos Community Center (97 Hillview Ave.). See below for details on how to register.
- Mark your calendars for Saturday, September 5th, as we celebrate the Los Altos Hills Hoedown! Enjoy delicious BBQ and ice cream, live bluegrass music, dancing, and exciting equestrian demonstrations for an evening of community fun!
- Residents are invited to attend the Live Well, Age Well Health Expo on Tuesday, September 15th, from 12:00 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. at the Los Altos Community Center (97 Hillview Ave.)
- Join the Los Altos Hills History Committee this fall for “The Anza Expedition – 250th Anniversary,” a special presentation exploring the historic expedition and its lasting significance to Los Altos Hills and the surrounding region. Event details will be announced soon.
The SCC Sheriff's Department indicated that there were no residential burglaries this past week.
LAHCFD has updates below on the upcoming events and safety resources.
That's all for now. See you around Town and have an amazing weekend!
Warm Regards,
Cody Einfalt, City Manager
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☕Mayor Bhateja's Office Hours
Mayor Bhateja welcomes all residents to come meet him at Town Hall during his scheduled Office Hours.
Coffee with the Mayor/Mayor's Office Hours are moving to the newly reopened Heritage House per the schedule below:
- Friday August 28, 2026 10-11am
- Friday September 4, 2026 10-11am
Signs will point the way to the Heritage House at Town Hall.
You can also schedule an appointment via this link: https://calendly.com/rbhateja
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📢August 20, 2026 City Council Regular Meeting: RECAP
The Los Altos Hills City Council convened its August Regular Meeting on Thursday, August 20, 2026, at 6:00 PM at Town Hall.
The meeting began with several recognitions and appointments. Mayor Bhateja presented a proclamation recognizing George Lee for his extensive volunteer contributions to the Town, including support for EV chargers, Town security and access-control systems, backup generators, and Starlink Wi-Fi for community events. City Manager Cody Einfalt also recognized the Town’s 2026 Summer Interns for their service across several Town departments. (pictures below)
The Council appointed Dana Stalder to the Finance & Investment Committee, reappointed Bernardo Ferrari to the History Committee, and appointed nine members to the newly established Housing Element Implementation Committee, which may begin meeting immediately. Item 11A, regarding topics and priorities for the new Committee to consider at its first meeting, was moved up and discussed during the Committee appointments under Presentations and Appointments.
The Council also received the Los Altos Hills County Fire District’s Ten-Year Budget Forecast, covering long-term operating assumptions, staffing, the I-280 Community Fuel Break project, future fire apparatus, a potential new fire facility, and refurbishment of the Almonte Fire Station.
The Consent Calendar was approved and included the Mid-Year Status Update on the 2026-27 City Council Workplan, authorization for the History Committee's fall presentation commemorating the 250th Anniversary of the Anza Expedition, acceptance of the Safe Streets for All grant to develop the Los Altos Hills Transportation Safety Plan, completion of the FY26 Pavement Rehabilitation and Drainage Improvement Project, and several sewer and right-of-way agreements.
During Public Hearings, the Council approved the Conditional Use Permit renewal and amendment for the Westwind Community Barn, allowing a maximum of five horse shows annually. The Council also considered the proposed local designation of the Juan Bautista de Anza Historic Trail. Following public testimony and Council discussion, the Council did not approve the designation and directed that the Town would not pursue connection to the designated trail system.
Under New Business, the Council discussed the Town's private security patrol services and approved maintaining the current patrol shifts while transitioning to Securitas, with contract options that include electric patrol vehicle pricing scheduled to return to the Council in September. The Council also received an informational update on the Complete Streets Safety Assessment Report and adopted an updated Town Purchasing Policy, including a $30,000 monthly aggregate limit on director-level open-market purchases and a $5,000 limit per individual transaction unless otherwise approved by the City Manager.
Under Ongoing Business, the Council reviewed the Town’s remaining Rule 20A utility undergrounding credits and directed staff to retain the approximately $685,000 balance while further investigating potential uses and options. The Council also authorized issuance of a Request for Proposals for City Attorney Legal Services, took no action on proposed changes to the existing Mayoral Rotation Policy, and approved amendments to the Town’s Proclamations, Commendations, and Commemorations Policy, including an annual ceremonial calendar and a limit of three ceremonial recognitions per meeting.
During Reports from Committees and Councilmembers, the Council shared several community updates, including the History Committee's annual presentation and an upcoming CHERISH Los Altos Hills community event at Town Hall on September 13 featuring a panel discussion on rodent management.
During Staff Reports, City Manager Cody Einfalt provided updates on recruitment efforts for the Town's Finance Director and Assistant to the City Manager positions.
The meeting adjourned at 12:00 A.M.
Visit this page for all previous City Council Recaps.
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📺City Council Meetings Now on YouTube!
The Town successfully completed its first live YouTube broadcast of a City Council meeting last night! Moving forward, the Town’s YouTube page will provide residents and the public with another convenient way to watch Council meetings live or view past meetings at any time. You can access the Town's City Council Meeting broadcast YouTube page by clicking this link.
Residents can also click on the subscribe button to see when the Town is live. To receive a direct notification when a broadcast begins, subscribers should tap the bell icon and select “All” notifications.
| | 🏠Community Development/Housing Element Updates | |
📢August 20th City Council Meeting Community Development Recap
At the August 20, 2026 Los Altos Hills City Council meeting, the Council considered several Community Development Department items presented by Director Bradford. The discussion covered historic preservation, implementation of the State Density Bonus Law, building permit extensions, and the Town’s code enforcement program.
Martha Lynn Tank House Historic Landmark
The Council held a second reading of the ordinance designating the Martha Lynn Tank House at 12889 Viscaino Place as a Historic Landmark. The item continued the Town’s consideration of formally recognizing the historic property. Direction was received from the City Council, and the project was approved with conditions.
State Density Bonus Law
The Council also considered the second reading of an ordinance adding Article 17 to Chapter 1 (Zoning) of Title 10 (Zoning and Site Development) of the Los Altos Hills Municipal Code. The ordinance is intended to implement the State Density Bonus Law pursuant to Housing Element Program B-3.
The second reading followed the Council’s earlier consideration of the ordinance and focused on establishing the Town’s local regulations for implementing the state requirements. Direction was received from the City Council, and the ordinance was approved with conditions.
Building Permit Extensions
The Council considered resolutions granting extensions for various building permits. The item addressed requests to extend the validity of permits and allow the affected projects additional time to proceed under the Town’s permitting requirements, all permits reviewed were granted extensions.
Code Enforcement Program Update
The Council received an implementation update on the Town’s Code Enforcement Program. Staff provided an overview of the program’s progress and implementation, with the Council offering feedback and direction regarding the Town’s approach to code enforcement. Direction was received from the City Council as staff continued implementation of the program.
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🙌Congratulations to Bageshri Thakar and Lilac Shen
The Los Altos Hills Community Development Department is pleased to congratulate Assistant Planner Bageshri Thakar and Planning Intern Lilac Shen on successfully passing their American Planning Association (APA) AICP certification exams this week! Passing the AICP exam is an important milestone in a planner’s career. It reflects a deep knowledge of the planning profession, a strong understanding of planning principles and practices, and significant technical expertise. We are honored to have Bageshri and Lilac as part of our team and proud to celebrate this achievement with them. The Community Development Department places a high value on continuing education and career development, recognizing that investing in our staff strengthens the expertise and service we provide to the Los Altos Hills community.
Please join us in congratulating Bageshri and Lilac on this outstanding accomplishment as they continue their professional development while contributing to the important planning work underway in Los Altos Hills.
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📋This Week: Understanding Site Development Review
Planning a project in Los Altos Hills? The Town’s Site Development Road Map provides a useful overview of the different levels of review a project may require. In general, smaller projects may qualify for Administrative Review, while larger or more complex projects may require Site Development Committee/Fast Track Review or Planning Commission Review. The applicable tier depends on factors such as the size of the proposed development, floor-area additions, grading, and the type of project. Larger projects—and all new residences—generally require Planning Commission review and a public hearing.
Because the review level can affect neighborhood notice, public participation, project timing, and other requirements, property owners should consult the Site Development Process Roadmap early in the design process and confirm the applicable requirements with Town Planning staff before submitting an application.
Have a question about your property? Email planning@losaltoshills.ca.gov or schedule a meeting with planning staff here.
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📢Emergency Alert Siren Test at Purissima Park: August 26th
In coordination with Genasys and the Town's Emergency Preparedness & Response Committee (EPRC), the Town of Los Altos Hills will conduct a public demonstration and operational test of an emergency alert siren system at Purissima Park this upcoming Wednesday, August 26th. The active test is scheduled to occur from approximately 4:00 p.m. to 4:15 p.m., with a broader operational window of 3:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. to allow for setup, testing, and any necessary adjustments.
The demonstration is designed to evaluate the system's performance while showcasing how emergency alerts and voice messages could be delivered to the community during a public safety incident. During the testing window, residents in the surrounding area may hear a series of alert tones and voice announcements. This is only a planned test, and no action is required from the public. The Long Range Acoustic Device (LRAD) system is designed to deliver clear, long-range voice communications and emergency warnings during emergencies. If you have any questions about the test, please contact City Manager Cody Einfalt at ceinfalt@losaltoshills.ca.gov.
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📈Finance Director Recruitment
The Town has partnered with Bob Murray & Associates to conduct a nationwide search for our next Finance Director. The Town is seeking a knowledgeable and collaborative finance professional with strong technical expertise, sound judgment, and a commitment to public service to serve as a key financial advisor and strategic partner to the organization and community. Applications are due September 27, 2026. More information can be found using this link. The full recruitment brochure can also be found here.
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🐶Announcement from Pets In Need:
This week’s featured pet is Sunny, a sweet young dog at Pets In Need who is ready to find a home of his own. All of Sunny's images can be found here.
Sunny came to Pets In Need as a young puppy following a large-scale rescue response in Southern California, alongside his sister, Cher. While Cher quickly found a home, Sunny has continued growing up in our care and is now becoming a teenager.
Sunny has spent much of his young life in shelter care, which means so many of the simple joys of having a home are still waiting for him.
.🐾
| | Upcoming Events and Recaps | | |
🎀Heritage House Ribbon Cutting: RECAP
The Town celebrated the completion of the Heritage House Upgrade Project with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on August 19th, joined by community members, Town Councilmembers, and Santa Clara County Supervisor Margaret Abe-Koga. The project was supported by $400,000 in Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funding through the County Office of Supportive Housing. During the ceremony, Supervisor Abe-Koga presented the Town with a Certificate of Commendation recognizing the opening of the newly upgraded Heritage House. Staff will now work with the contractor to close out the project and anticipates bringing formal project acceptance to the City Council soon.
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⚾Los Altos vs. Los Altos Hills Softball Game: THIS Saturday!
Looking for something fun to do this weekend? Come out and support the community at the 8th Annual Los Altos vs. Los Altos Hills Adult Softball Game!
Join us this Saturday, August 22, at Rosita Park for a morning of friendly competition and community spirit, with the first pitch at 10:00 a.m. Whether you’re playing or cheering from the sidelines, come be part of this annual tradition. See you there!
📅Date: Saturday, August 22nd
🕛Time: 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
📍Location: Rosita Park - 401 Rosita Ave., Los Altos, CA
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🔥Wildfire Preparedness Workshop: August 27th
As wildfire season continues, residents are encouraged to attend a free Wildfire Preparedness Workshop on Thursday, August 27, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at the Los Altos Community Center (97 Hillview Ave.). Hosted by the Santa Clara County Fire Department, the workshop will include a 45-minute presentation covering home hardening, defensible space, Firewise communities, emergency notifications, evacuation planning, and emergency go kits, followed by an opportunity to connect with local public safety and emergency preparedness organizations at community resource tables. Registration is encouraged, you can register using this link.
📅Date: Thursday, August 27th
🕛Time: 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
📍Location: Los Altos Community Center - 97 Hillview Ave.
For more information visit this link.
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🐎Join us for the Los Altos Hills Hoedown: September 5th
Get ready for an unforgettable evening of food, music, dancing, and family fun at this year’s Los Altos Hills Hoedown!
Start the evening with delicious barbecue from Capelo’s BBQ Food Truck, followed by a sweet treat from the Cookies n’ Cream SJ ice cream truck. Then, get ready to hit the dance floor as our lively dance caller leads the festivities, accompanied by toe-tapping live bluegrass music from Sidesaddle & Co.
Be sure to arrive by 4:30 p.m. to catch exciting equestrian exhibitions and riding demonstrations in the upper arena, presented by Victoria Dye Equestrian.
For questions or additional information, contact Emina Mahic at esteta@losaltoshills.ca.gov.
📅Date: Saturday, September 5th
🕛Time: 4:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.
📍Location: Westwind Community Barn
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🍎Live Well, Age Well Health Expo
Residents are invited to attend the Live Well, Age Well Health Expo on Tuesday, September 15, from 12:00 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. at the Los Altos Community Center (97 Hillview Ave.).
This free community event will feature a wide variety of health, wellness, and safety resources, including a vendor showcase, live educational sessions, complimentary refreshments, and giveaways. Whether you're looking to learn about healthy aging, connect with local organizations, or discover new community resources, the Health Expo offers something for everyone.
The event is sponsored by the Los Altos/Los Altos Hills Senior Commission, the Los Altos Community Services Adult 50+ Program, and Los Altos Hills Community Services.
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📢The Anza Expedition-250th Anniversary
Join the Los Altos Hills History Committee this fall for “The Anza Expedition – 250th Anniversary,” a special community presentation commemorating the 250th anniversary of the historic Anza Expedition. Learn more about the expedition, its significance to our region, and its connection to local history as we mark this important milestone.
Event details, including the date, time, and location, will be announced soon.
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Sheriff's Update
Sheriff's Weekly Report Update
SCC Sheriff's Department indicated that there were no residential burglaries this past week.
You can request PalAmerican to check on your property while you are away by clicking on this link. In addition, you can also request a patrol check from SCC Sheriff's Office by using this link.
Lieutenant Shawn Flores has encouraged residents to reach out to him with any questions at shawn.flores@shf.sccgov.org.
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LAHCFD Updates
The next The Los Altos Hills County Fire District Commission
regular meeting will be on Tuesday, September 15, 2026, at 7PM.
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Are You Ready to Evacuate in the Event of a Wildfire this Summer?
A little preparation and practice can make a big difference during an emergency, especially if your household includes children or individuals who may need extra assistance. Know two ways out of your neighborhood when possible, keep Go Bags ready for your family and pets, and practice an evacuation drill with your household so everyone knows what to do when it matters most.
Want to learn more? Take a look at our Past Classes page for helpful videos and resources from our 2026 Be Ready Be Prepared class series.
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Class Happening Tomorrow, August 22: Animal Preparedness!
Don’t forget — our Be Ready Be Prepared: Animal Preparedness class is tomorrow, with options to attend online and in person at Town Hall. Join LAHCFD and The HALTER Project to learn simple, practical ways to keep your pets safe and prepared during evacuations, power shutoffs, severe weather, and other emergencies.
Learn how to build a pet Go Bag, create an evacuation and reunification plan, and identify backup caregivers.
Saturday, August 22 | 10:00 AM–12:00 PM
Los Altos Hills Town Hall | Hybrid option available
There’s still time to register — don’t miss out!
Register Here | Learn About The HALTER Project
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