City Council - Special Meeting

So that's how it works.

Okay.

Okay. Okay. Good evening, everyone. I will call the special meeting of the Milpitas City Council of June 25th, 2026 to order. Please note that oral public comment may only be provided in person at this meeting. The City Council meeting is available for instant translation in over 60 languages with Wordly. It's accessible via mobile phone. computer and video displays. So by scanning the QR code on the upper right-hand corner of this agenda, you will be able to access it. So back to today's business, City Clerk Guzzetta, please take the roll call.

Council Member Lam. Here. Council Member Leigh Ann.

Here.

Mayor Montana.

Here. Okay, so now we will rise for the Pledge of Allegiance.

Ready? Begin. I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America and to the republic for which it stands, one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.

Thank you very much. You may be seated. So now let's move on to the public forum. Members of the public are invited to speak On any item that is not on the agenda, public forum will be limited to two minutes. Any comments?

I have no public speaker cards, Mayor.

Okay. Is there anyone from the public that would like to speak on any item that is not on today's agenda? Okay. Seeing none, I will close the public forum. And now we will read the Milpitas City Code of Conduct. Is any of my colleagues would like to read it? If not, I will proceed.

I don't have it unless it's on the screen. OK, well, I'll go ahead and read it.

OK, so we have a Milpita City Code of Conduct. It's a friendly reminder for us to how we should conduct ourselves in public. So be respectful and courteous. Words, tone, and body language do matter. Model civility. Avoid surprises. Praise publicly and criticize privately. Focus on the issue, not the person. Refrain from using electronic devices while on the council dais. Disclose conflicts of interest and affiliations related to agenda items. Separate governing from campaigning. The council speaks with one voice after making policy on issues. Respect the line between policy and administration. Council will hold one another accountable to comply with this code of conduct. Okay, so now we will do the present the state of the city. All right, we will go on down. I will come on down. It is kind of warm in here. I think I will take off this jersey. Anyhow, so good evening, everyone. It is a great pleasure to see you all here. And it is an honor to welcome you to the 2026 State of the City Address, where we were, where we are, and where we will be going. As I stand here before you tonight, I am reminded of just how far Milpitas has come and how bright our future remains. Last year, we celebrated how Milpitas was charging ahead. This year, our story is a little bit different, but even more meaningful. Our theme for 2026 is resilient through change, rising through opportunity. Very recently, our city has experienced significant transitions. We welcomed a new city manager, Willie Hopkins, and a new city attorney, Christian Curtis. We also navigated a year marked by economic shifts, policy changes, and new challenges, demonstrating the resilience that defines our community. Resilience is more than overcoming challenges. It is adapting, innovating and emerging even stronger. This past year, We strengthened our finances, invested in our community, and attracted new employers, increased transparency, elevated Milpitas' profile, and positioned our city for the future. Most importantly, we did it together. Over the past year, the City Council and staff have worked diligently to strengthen Milpitas' financial forecast. With the adoption of our balanced budget, we reduce our projected five-year deficit by 43%, while preserving services and avoiding staffing reductions. More importantly, we made strategic investments in priorities identified directly by our residents. Our commitment to excellent service continues to produce measurable results across department operations. The Office of Building Safety served 15,692 use permit customers and achieved an outstanding 98% customer satisfaction rating, reflecting its commitment to responsive, efficient service. We also completed a strategic realignment of our 13 commissions. modernizing their structure to better align with the needs of the community. Our public information office continued to expand the city's digital presence, earning an award of excellence for their innovative public engagement through social media. Through our Instagram platform, residents now have greater access to information than ever before. Innovation also drives efficiency across our organization. This year, our information technology department generated over $120,000 in cost savings through strategic technology improvements and operational efficiencies, while enhancing service delivery across city operations. Supporting these efforts is a dedicated team. working behind the scenes to advance Council priorities, manage procurements, and ensure projects and services are delivered effectively and responsibly. Together, these accomplishments demonstrate that effective governance is not only about simply meeting today's needs, it's about empowering innovative thinking and creative problem solving to prepare Milpitas for tomorrow's opportunities. A resilient city is a safe city. Public safety remains one of the highest priorities for the city. Every single day our police officers, our firefighters, our dispatchers and emergency personnel work diligently to protect our community and provide residents with peace of mind. Whether responding to emergencies, supporting community events, engaging with youth, or preparing for future challenges, our public safety teams remain committed to protecting lives, building trust, and serving the community that we live in. As the public safety performance indicators on the screen illustrate, our police and fire departments continue Let me say it again, they continue to deliver exceptional service. These results reflect not only their dedication and expertise, but also their proactive approach to prevention, preparedness, and community partnership. Together, we demonstrate our unwavering commitment to ensuring Milpitas remains a safe, resilient, and welcoming place for everyone. Building livable neighborhoods means creating places where residents can thrive at every stage of life. We expanded housing opportunities by relaunching our ADU, that means accessory dwelling units, incentive program, covering permit fees for eligible ADUs, and helping homeowners add flexible housing options. Through our housing assistance and rent relief programs, we supported 255 households, helping families remain stable and connected to the community they call home. At the same time, we continued planning for the future by completing phase two of the comprehensive zoning ordinance update and launching an impact fee study to ensure new development. This contributes to the infrastructure, the amenities, and neighborhood investments that keep Milpitas vibrant, connected, and livable for generations to come. We're also making strategic investments in the infrastructure and public spaces that enhance the quality of life for our residents. This year, we launched a 1.3 million playground improvement project at Senate Park. We also completed the city's first ever solar streetlight installation along Hammond Way and secured nearly 5 million in federal grant funding to improve safety at key intersections and school zones, with construction anticipated to begin next summer. Our commitment to reliable infrastructure throughout the city continues with the replacement of a 12-inch water main on Dempsey Road. followed by the successful repaving of the Dempsey Road corridor. We also completed a 1 million bicycle lane enhancement project and will soon begin our 2026 annual street rehabilitation program with a 3.4 million investment in the greater Yellowstone neighborhood area. And in the coming weeks, we will complete the beautification of the Calaveras Boulevard medians. I'm sure most of you have seen the new medians being restructured on the medians. And now, sustainability. Sustainability and responsible growth remain central to Milpitas' vision for the future. Through partnerships with Silicon Valley Clean Energy and the United States Department of Energy, the Go Electric Milpitas program accelerated community electrification, homeowner assistance, and clean energy rebates. We also secured nearly $4 million in external funding to expand resident incentives and also to advance sustainability initiatives, support the transition to all-electric municipal fleet, and increase electric vehicle charging infrastructure throughout the city. Environmental stewardship remains a shared community effort. Through neighborhood cleanups, expanded recycling and waste diversion programs, water conservation education, and enhanced drought-tolerant landscape rebates, Milpitas is creating meaningful local environmental impacts. Meanwhile, Milpitas Smart Shuttle Service is improving mobility by connecting residents to schools, jobs, healthcare, shopping, and community destinations, while reducing traffic congestion and emissions, helping build a cleaner and healthier Milpitas. Our parks and public spaces are where our community comes together. Guided by extensive community input, we advanced several transformative initiatives this year, which include the Main Street Specific Plan, the Public Art Master Plan, and the Parks and Trails Master Plan, creating a shared vision for a more vibrant, connected, and welcoming Milpitas. We also expanded recreational opportunities with the installation of new pickleball courts at some of our parks. That has quickly become a favorite among residents, providing new ways to stay active, connect with neighbors and enjoy our parks. Together these investments reflect our commitment to enhancing the spaces, the experiences, and the amenities that make Milpitas an exceptional place to live, work, raise a family, and play. Milpitas continues to strengthen its position as a Silicon Valley hub for innovation and opportunity, supporting more than 48,000 jobs. World-class companies continue choosing Milpitas because of our strategic location. talented workforce and strong infrastructure, top tier schools and a business friendly environment through the adoption of the main street specific plan and a new shop local banner. I'm sure you've seen him outside. We are investing in a vibrant business district while supporting the local businesses that power our economy. Leading employers, including Commonwealth Fusion Systems, Supermicro, C-Quantum, Emerald Technologies, Empower Semiconductor, and Sutter Health continue to invest in Milpitas. This year, we also celebrated a major milestone with Rivian's selection of Milpitas. It's for the Last Mile Hub, alongside new additions like Pottery Barn, Altitude Trampoline Park, and Devian. Together, these investments are creating jobs, driving innovation, and strengthening Milpitas. This is Malpitas' position as a premier destination for businesses. So just as important, we continued investing in the success of our local entrepreneurs. Since 2024, the Microenterprise Assistance Program, one of a kind, has awarded 105 community development block grant funded grants totaling $585,000. to income eligible micro enterprises, helping small businesses grow. You don't see too many cities doing that, but we do. Strengthening our local economy with these micro enterprises and supporting the long term vitality of our commercial districts. As the FIFA World Cup brings the world's attention to our region, Milpitas is a stepping stone onto a global stage. Today, visitors from all around the world are discovering what makes our city special. And we are making sure Milpitas is part of their journey. For years, people have known where Milpitas is. Today, they are discovering why they should visit. From global flavors and world-class shopping to unique local experiences, Milpitas offers something for every visitor. And as Milpitas continues to grow as a destination place, we're making it easier than ever for visitors to discover everything our community has to offer. Early this month, we launched discovermelpitas.com, a dynamic, dynamic destination platform. Yes, it's awesome. I'm telling you, it's awesome. A big old shout out to the staff that created that. So a dynamic destination platform designed to connect visitors with the best of Milpitas. More than a visitor guide, the site serves as a digital gateway to our city, helping travelers plan their stay, explore hidden gems, and experience the vibrant culture that makes Milpitas unique. It also gives our local businesses a powerful platform to connect with new customers and showcase everything they have to offer. Whether visitors are here for a day, a weekend, or a major event, DiscoverMilpitas.com makes it easier to experience the very best of Milpitas. We also introduced a new Visit Milpitas brochure, now reaching travelers through hotels, visitors serving businesses, car rental facilities, and destinations across the Bay Area. Designed to inspire exploration, the brochure highlights the many reasons to visit Milpitas. It encourages visitors to extend their stay, support local businesses, and discover everything our community has to offer. everyone here tonight you will receive a copy or you already have a copy so be sure to scan the qr code to start exploring your city i know there's people that have been for here forever and they didn't know that we had an elviso adobe and they just live around the corner so yeah they this this brochure has a lot of gems in malpitas So our Light Rail advertising campaign is bringing the Milpitas brand to life across the region, reaching thousands of commuters and visitors. With vibrant, eye-catching, creative designs that reflect our city's energy, the campaign is strengthening Milpitas' identity as a premier destination place. Our messaging is prominently displayed in 10 BART stations, giving Milpitas exceptional visibility among residents, workers, and travelers. Throughout the Bay Area, Milpitas is sought out as a destination place. This initiative helps elevate Milpitas' profile on a larger regional and global stage. Last Saturday, Taste of Milpitas brought our community together to celebrate the rich cultures and global flavors that make our city so unique. Visitors enjoyed an incredible variety of cuisines from local food vendors, showcasing why Milpitas has become one of the Bay Area's most exciting dining destination places. The event featured live performances, family friendly activities, cultural experiences, and a lively FIFA Club World Cup watch party. More than a food festival, it created opportunities for residents and visitors to connect, support local businesses, and experience the welcoming spirit of our community. In addition, one of the most meaningful ways we are sharing the Mopeda story has come through a simple question. Where is Mayor Carmen Montano? what started as an effort to spotlight local businesses because you know we want businesses in our city because that means revenue that means uh services for people for our community so what as i mentioned what came you know it was just a spotlight to bring businesses in became a reminder to me of just how remarkable our community truly is I, being a lifelong Milpitas resident since the 1960s, I thought I knew the city well. Yet these visits have allowed me to see Milpitas through a different lens. One day I was enjoying authentic momos. Another day I was sampling some of the Bay Area's best fish and chips. Then I found myself cooling off with a refreshing Filipino halo-halo. Serving as mayor comes with many responsibilities, but I have to admit, This may be the tastiest assignment that comes with the job. I loved it. I also visited family-owned restaurants, specialty retailers, our local winery, one of the championship golf destinations and attractions like Legoland Discovery Center and the Great Mall. And one more thing, did you know, a lot of people didn't even know we had a winery up on the hills. So this brochure tells you exactly where it's at. So the more than the places themselves, what impressed me most were the dreamers, the entrepreneurs, and the families behind the small businesses whose passion and hard work create jobs, strengthen our local economy and enrich the community we proudly call home. As we look toward the future, one thing is clear. Milpitas is resilient. We have strengthened our finances through fiscal responsibility. We have embraced innovation. We have invested in our neighborhoods. We have supported businesses and attracted world-class employers. We have elevated our profile through the region and we have done so while navigating change with confidence and purpose. The future of Milpitas will not be defined by the challenges we face, it will be defined by how we respond to them. by continuing to move forward with smart governance, by investing strategically, by embracing innovation, and by creating opportunities for every resident, business, and family. Together, we are building a stronger, more connected, more sustainable, and more prosperous Milpitas. together we are resilient through change and rising through opportunity we are milpitas strong thank you very much and may god continue to bless the city of milpitas thank you I think I went off script. He was supposed to introduce me, but we can go ahead and do that.

See, Mayor, if you hadn't said that, nobody would know. Good afternoon, and thank you for attending. On behalf of the entire city of Melpita's team, thank you for being here today. Whether you're a resident, business leader, community partner, elected official, regional colleague, or dedicated member of our city staff, your presence reflects a shared commitment to the future of our community. We're especially grateful to our neighboring city leaders, agency partners, and friends from across the region who have joined us this afternoon. For I haven't had the opportunity to meet you yet, I am honored to be serving as your city manager. This happened to be my 250th year, given all the information they poured into me over the last few days. It seems like I've been here that long. Over the past week, I've had the privilege of meeting residents, business owners, elected officials, community leaders, and city employees who care deeply about Milpitas. Every conversation, every introduction, and every opportunity to learn about the city has been a strengthening of my commitment to serving Milpitas and helping building a strong foundation already in place. This year theme celebrates something I've already seen firsthand. Milpitas is resilient through change and it rises to the opportunity. This community has never been defined by standing still. Time and again, Milpitas face new challenges, embrace new possibilities, and emerge stronger because of the people who call Milpitas home. As the mayor has shared her vision for the year ahead, I offer the observation, Malpitas is a city that does not respond to change, that doesn't simply respond to change, it builds on its strength, adapts with purpose, and continues moving forward. As we begin our time together, I'd like to acknowledge the work that played a vital role in shaping the community's progress over the past year. What you have seen and what you're about to see is an additional highlight reel. It's a snapshot of the community in motion. Together, these moments tell the story of a city that continues to innovate, invest, and build. So what you've just seen reflects the many ways our community is turning vision into action and creating meaningful progress for the people of Milpitas. The progress we celebrate today did not happen by chance. It is a result of thoughtful leadership, meaningful collaboration, and a commitment to build a city where people can live, work, learn, thrive, and play. As we reflect on how far we've come, and as we look ahead to the opportunity before us, the guiding vision of the leaders who remain focused on creating a stronger, more vibrant, and future for our community. And that leadership is with our mayor and our council members. And again, we thank you all for being here. And we would just like to acknowledge some dignitaries, and I don't have the list. You want to do it? Sure. Before we get into our guests, we'd like to acknowledge our councilmembers that are present. Councilmember Leigh Ann. Councilmember Lamb. I would like to acknowledge the legislative representatives from the office of Congressman Roe Kahn. The Office of Santa Clara Supervisor, Ott Lee, District 3. The Office of California Assemblyman, Alex Lee. Campbell Mayor, Daniel Furtado. Santa Clara Mayor, Lisa Gilmore. Representatives of the office of council member Sergio Lopez, the chair and members of our city's 12 commissions, our community members and our dedicated city staff, thank you all for being here and your continued commitment to serving our community. Thank you all for being here.

Everyone, there's a little reception downstairs, and you're all welcome to go down there. You can take pictures with any of the concert members and myself, and then we can go downstairs and have some treats, and there is a live DJ down there, right? You know, Milpitas, we know how to throw a party, right? Anyhow, yeah. So, again, again thank you for being here i from the bottom of my heart i appreciate each and every one of you we are making milpitas strong and and i'm so thankful for a great staff and we have a great city manager and a great city attorney and we're going to keep on moving this city forward thank you everyone thank you all right thank you everybody this meeting is adjourned