[0:00] Veronica, [0:02] can we start with roll call? [0:06] » Council member Walter, present. Council [0:08] member Husco here. Council member Flynn, [0:11] present. Vice Mayor Hufty here. Mayor [0:15] Taylor [0:16] >> present. [0:16] >> We have a quorum. [0:17] >> Great. Thank you. All right. So, we [0:20] don't have any presentations or [0:22] proclamations, so we'll move directly to [0:24] the town manager report. [0:29] Good evening, Darcy Smith, town manager. [0:32] Let me just Oh, you know, I've had [0:35] issues joining Zoom. Just give me a [0:37] second. Um, [0:40] seems to be a recurring theme here. So, [0:42] the first thing I have to announce is PB [0:44] Palooa, which is this Saturday. I hope [0:48] you all can join us. We have a great [0:51] lineup. [0:52] Um, it starts at [0:56] 10:30 a.m. here. And when I say it's all [0:59] day, it really is all day. It will go [1:01] until about 8:30. [1:03] And we have, [1:06] hold on. I think we have 21 bands. [1:09] >> Whoa. [1:10] >> 21, I should say, 21 adult bands. We [1:14] also, as some of you know, have showcase [1:17] our younger participants and give them a [1:21] time to go on the second stage. [1:25] Um, there's also [1:28] local arts and crafts and kids [1:29] activities. And I just want to take a [1:31] moment to thank the PV Palooa [1:34] Foundation, which is a local nonprofit. [1:36] this wonderful event started by our [1:40] great cultural arts committee and then [1:42] it spun off and I can tell you by the [1:44] number of emails that I've received from [1:46] the organizing team including founder [1:48] and executive director John Badger that [1:50] they have been working round the clock [1:53] on this. So I wanted to just thank him [1:57] uh the other board members and all the [1:59] volunteers and then put in a personal [2:02] request for everyone to be as safe as [2:04] possible. Please drive slow, watch for [2:06] pedestrians, and abide by all parking [2:09] signs. [2:11] Second, [2:13] the most exciting event of the year in [2:15] my opinion, the Zots to Tots family fun [2:18] run and bike and town picnic that is [2:20] coming up on September 19th and [2:23] registration's open. So, I hope you all [2:26] register [2:28] online at the town website. If you do [2:31] the run then you know it ends at the [2:34] town picnic which is super fun. Here we [2:36] have food, fun activities and live [2:38] bands. And one thing I've been actively [2:42] trying to push is having the town [2:45] committees have different tables. So [2:47] we've had a pretty good interest in [2:49] participating with that. The [2:51] conservation committee, emergency [2:52] preparedness committee, wildfire [2:54] committee or we'll have tables. So [2:56] please come and bring your questions. [2:58] And just a safety reminder, there will [3:00] be road closures along Alpine and Perola [3:04] roads that morning, so you should plan [3:08] accordingly. [3:09] And last, [3:12] the town has had an outpouring of [3:16] communication regarding [3:18] highways near us, not in our town, but [3:21] near us, Highway 35, 84, and 9. Um there [3:25] was a tragic event up there and I think [3:28] anyone who lives here knows that there [3:30] are lots of speeding cars up there. Um [3:33] so our local state and county leaders, [3:36] not this council, but our our colleagues [3:39] um and higher offices sent Calrans a [3:41] letter requesting a full corridor safety [3:43] review backed by 16 community [3:46] recommended improvements. That letter is [3:48] on our website and if you want to see it [3:50] and um CALR did respond pretty swiftly. [3:54] We the town was part of a group that met [3:56] with them and then there was a follow-up [3:58] meeting. So they're working on a road [4:00] safety audit of the routes. Take a few [4:02] months. Um they may be able to set lower [4:04] speed limits and the CHP and the [4:08] sheriff's office have outed weekend [4:10] patrols. I have heard people who are up [4:12] there and say that they've seen a lot of [4:15] CHP. Um, and there's some crash data [4:17] that you can access again on our [4:19] website. So, we continue to work with [4:21] our partners at the sheriff's office and [4:24] our other state and local partners and [4:25] we'll share updates as CALR review moves [4:28] forward. And that is all I have. Thank [4:30] you. [4:32] >> Were you going to cover the meeting we [4:34] went to on the VLF? [4:35] >> Yes. So, the town did have a meeting [4:38] that you might have read about in the [4:39] press on vehicle license fees. [4:42] Not the most glamorous subject and an [4:45] awful acronym for what it really means, [4:47] which is that the state as part of their [4:49] annual budget has removed funds that the [4:52] local county and the cities were owed. [4:56] And yes, Council Member Haskell and I [4:57] attended a a press conference which got [5:00] some press and we are actively engaged [5:02] in with the state um with the governor's [5:05] office and our state legislators to try [5:06] to resolve this issue um which does [5:09] affect the town's budget. Um [5:12] so it's an unfortunate situation, but if [5:15] you do read about it and can engage with [5:18] your local electeds, please do. [5:21] >> Thank you. [5:22] Darcy. [5:25] All right. [5:26] >> Can I ask a question about the uh is it [5:28] out of order to ask question? [5:30] >> No, go ahead. [5:31] >> Uh the 35 uh Skyline Boulevard uh issue. [5:37] >> Is it appropriate for the town for our [5:39] town to write a letter and [5:42] uh where do you think we should be with [5:45] that? [5:47] >> So the the roadways are not in our [5:50] jurisdiction, [5:51] >> right? But neither it is of all these [5:54] other towns. [5:56] >> It's in nobody's jurisdiction. [5:57] >> Uh no, it is in our state assembly [5:59] persons and our state senator's [6:01] jurisdictions and our county supervisor [6:05] Muellers and those are the folks that [6:06] wrote the letter. So I would advise that [6:08] we as a council do not need to write a [6:10] letter. [6:11] >> Thank you. [6:13] >> Can I also can I comment say something [6:15] about that [6:16] >> question or comment? [6:17] >> Comment. [6:18] >> Um [6:20] sure. I mean generally it's the town [6:22] manager report so I'm not sure I just uh [6:25] we don't have a date quite yet but [6:27] because they are state routes that are [6:29] being looked at um there will be a town [6:31] hall in October the date is still uh [6:34] getting sorted out but we will be having [6:37] uh um and every you know and we will as [6:40] soon as I know the date I will let the [6:41] town manager know so that she can share [6:43] it. Um but it will be with your state [6:46] officials and supervisor uh Mueller and [6:49] Keltans will be there and CHP will be [6:52] there and um the sheriff will be there [6:54] and Midpin will be there and so we are [6:58] that is being worked on. Thank you. [7:01] >> Thank you. [7:03] Okay, so with that we'll close out the [7:05] town manager report. Thank you Darcy. Um [7:08] so are there any oral communications? [7:10] So, these are things that are not on [7:12] tonight's agenda. So, I don't see any [7:15] hands in schoolhouse. [7:18] And I can get my Zoom to come up. Come [7:22] on. [7:30] » I see one hand online. Rita, this is [7:34] Oral Communications. [7:36] >> Yes. Thank you for taking my question. [7:38] Um, you know, uh, great to hear, you [7:40] know, all the great things from the town [7:42] manager report, but I really like to [7:44] hear what is the update on the audits. I [7:47] know that there are supposed to be some [7:49] things happening in October, but um, you [7:52] know, as we've learned over the years, [7:54] uh, we we need to keep asking the [7:56] questions in order to find out what is [7:58] currently happening in case dates and [8:00] times have moved, which they have moved [8:03] in the past. And so, just trying to get [8:04] an update, asking a question. Thank you. [8:08] Darcy, do you want to comment [8:10] on that? [8:10] >> Yeah, sorry. I do rotate the audit [8:13] updates and I'll get to it next meeting. [8:16] Um, [8:17] I'm thankful to report that we are on [8:20] schedule and we are on time thanks to [8:22] the hard work of our finance department [8:24] led by assistant town manager Tony [8:25] McFarland and we are on track to bring [8:28] this to the town council in October [8:32] and everything is going very smoothly [8:34] and we will also have a finance [8:35] committee meeting in October and if that [8:38] ever changes I will announce it. [8:42] >> Thank you Darcy. Okay, with that I'm [8:44] going to close oral communications and [8:46] move on to the consent agenda. Are there [8:48] any public comments on the consent [8:49] agenda? We don't see any in the [8:52] schoolhouse [8:57] and I don't see any online. So, I'm [9:00] going to close public comment, bring it [9:02] back to the council. Are there any [9:04] consent agenda items that council member [9:07] wants to pull? [9:08] >> I'd like to pull D. Cal cities. [9:11] Okay. [9:14] Anything else? All right. [9:24] » All right. Then I would entertain a [9:25] motion to approve the consent agenda A, [9:28] B, C, and E. [9:30] >> So moved. [9:33] >> Is there a second? [9:34] >> Second. [9:34] >> Thank you. All in favor say I. [9:36] >> I. [9:37] Okay, that passes unanimously. Thank [9:39] you. All right, [9:42] Becca. [9:42] >> So, super quick. Um, as the Cal's [9:45] representative, um, at the conference, [9:49] um, I wanted the council to be aware [9:51] that there is going to be at least one [9:52] resolution and a pretty significant one. [9:55] It's related to local control. It was [9:57] submitted by several um other [9:59] jurisdictions and I will be able to vote [10:03] on that and I really think that the town [10:06] council should have a say to give me [10:08] advice on how the town council would [10:11] like me to vote on that. So I'm asking [10:13] staff if that's something that could be [10:15] brought back or could be agendaized. Um, [10:18] unfortunately looking a little bit at [10:20] the timing and I didn't go through this [10:21] too too in depth, but sounded to me like [10:24] Cal Cities wasn't going to provide the [10:26] full information until like a week [10:28] before Cal City starts, which doesn't [10:30] coincide that well with our council [10:32] meetings. So I, you know, I think we do [10:34] need a little bit more investigation. So [10:36] it would either be that September 9th [10:38] meeting or it would actually be the [10:40] meeting where I will be calling in that [10:42] Wednesday. I think the vote is on [10:44] Thursday. Um, so I I think we just need [10:47] to investigate that. Thank you. [10:49] >> Okay. Thank you. All right. Um, with [10:52] that I would entertain a motion to pass [10:55] 6D. [10:56] >> Motion to approve 6D. [10:58] >> Second. [10:59] >> Thank you. I have a motion in a second. [11:01] All in favor say I. [11:02] >> I. [11:03] Passes unanimously. Okay, that closes [11:06] out the consent agenda. Moving on to the [11:08] regular agenda. First thing we have is [11:10] consider acceptance of the planning [11:12] commission bylaws. Sher, I believe you [11:14] got a staff report. [11:20] » Good evening again, town council. So [11:22] Sarah Kors, planning building director [11:24] for town of Corolla Valley. So I don't [11:26] have a formal presentation. What was [11:28] provided in the staff report provided a [11:30] brief overview, but really what's here [11:32] before you tonight is to um accept the [11:34] planning commission bylaws that were [11:36] created. So these were adopted by [11:38] planning commission June 17, 2026. So [11:42] just a few months ago and planning [11:44] commission had initiated a subcommittee [11:46] to help develop these bylaws. They had I [11:49] believe a study session to discuss them [11:51] and then voted on them in June. So there [11:54] had been discussion about these bylaws. [11:56] And uh one thing I'd point out is that [11:59] there are these bylaws and there's the [12:01] additional commission committee [12:02] handbook. So where they're in conflict, [12:04] these bylaws would take precedence. Um [12:06] but we still have both documents for [12:09] reference. And then one other point I [12:10] wanted to make that I called out at the [12:12] end of the staff report is there was [12:14] lengthy discussion at planning [12:15] commission about the address of the [12:18] schoolhouse and where we meet because [12:20] this address I believe is 775 [12:24] but we referenced 765 for the meeting. [12:27] However, we kept the address 765 because [12:30] that's referenced in the code and all of [12:31] our other communications right now. That [12:33] could be something that we could [12:34] consider in the future is the exact [12:36] address location of the historic [12:38] schoolhouse where we meet. So, just [12:39] wanted to point that out. The address is [12:41] no change. Um, but in addition to that, [12:44] there's language in the staff report [12:46] about town council's ability to approve [12:50] or as we were to accept the bylaws. So, [12:53] that's the decision tonight. And there's [12:54] additional information if you don't [12:55] accept it or if there's another policy [12:57] that could be created about the approval [13:00] process for bylaws like this in the [13:02] future. [13:04] >> Okay. Thank you. Any questions, Miss [13:07] Sarah, before I open up to public [13:09] comment? [13:12] >> Go ahead. [13:14] >> I guess I guess I would just like to [13:15] understand what the um problem we're [13:17] trying to solve by these by these [13:20] bylaws. [13:25] Sis, I would like to just note again [13:27] that these were developed by the [13:29] planning commission and I think it's to [13:32] I mean I could read from the staff [13:34] report but to just provide maybe a [13:36] little bit more clarity on processes, [13:38] procedures or additional information [13:41] related to that. [13:44] I'm not sure if I have additional [13:46] information on what the bylaws solve for [13:50] particularly and I don't want to speak [13:52] on behalf of the planning commission. [13:57] » Okay. [13:58] Ellie, [13:59] >> I think Mary wanted to go ahead. [14:00] >> Oh, well, I I do have a question. Uh [14:03] where does the pressure come from to on [14:08] the town council to quote accept or [14:11] approve or not accept or approve the uh [14:16] the bylaws that the that the planning [14:19] commission has created on their own. [14:22] >> I could take a stab at that. Um okay in [14:25] terms of the legal authority uh so as [14:29] referenced in the staff report um a [14:32] provision of state law this is [14:33] government code section 65102 states [14:35] that a legislative body may establish [14:38] for its planning agency any rules [14:40] procedures or standards which are not in [14:42] conflict with state or federal laws. So [14:44] as I read this and I think this is [14:46] consistent with how other councils have [14:48] considered planning commission bylaws. [14:51] um the council has the opportunity it [14:54] may it's permissive so it may um [14:57] establish um uh rules and procedures in [15:00] other words bylaws for its planning um [15:02] body. Uh so that's that's where the [15:04] legal authority comes to and and that's [15:06] why um staff brought this forward to [15:08] council for its consideration [15:09] >> and just so I can reiterate [15:12] that's permissive for us to control the [15:15] planning commission. [15:17] >> Correct. Yeah. Yeah. And some some [15:19] councils have delegated to its planning [15:21] commission the authority. [15:22] >> Yes. And Right. [15:27] » Thank you. [15:28] >> Um so this might be another question for [15:30] you. On page two of the addendum [15:33] advising the town council [15:37] um [15:39] section subsection five it says [15:42] generally these activities will be at [15:44] the request of the town council or [15:46] planning staff. [15:50] Wouldn't it isn't it generally at So is [15:53] that saying that the planning commission [15:56] can come up with its own agenda items? [16:00] Yes. [16:03] >> Uh I I guess yes. This would mean [16:05] generally speaking. So not always. I [16:08] mean I guess I would give the this [16:09] bylaws project perhaps is one example. [16:12] Um I don't think council um directed [16:14] this project for example. [16:17] >> Um [16:19] and is that [16:22] common? [16:24] like every every jurisdiction that I've [16:27] ever been around, it's usually at the [16:29] direction of council, right? [16:33] But, [16:36] uh, that's generally been my experience. [16:37] Of course, planning commission reports [16:39] to council and so generally um and [16:40] that's I mean that is that is what it [16:43] says uh in terms of the general rule. [16:45] Um, this would allow for some [16:47] exceptions. This language [16:55] Um, and do we have clarity about what [16:59] those exceptions would be? [17:03] » Not not in this document. No. [17:08] Um [17:13] so uh [17:17] and in terms of council I mean obviously [17:21] as being elected because of the code [17:24] that you read initially right [17:28] it it has oversight over the planning [17:31] commission. Is that correct? Remind me. [17:34] >> Correct. Yes, [17:41] » I mean the council has the authority to [17:43] appoint um commissioners and remove [17:45] commissioners. That's its key authority [17:48] over the commission. [17:54] » Is this the And this is the background [17:56] the municipal code you said. Is this a [17:59] 2201? [18:01] >> Can I look over your shoulder? I'm not [18:02] sure what what you're pointing to. [18:04] correct code. [18:07] >> Uh so this [18:09] >> am I at the wrong code? [18:10] >> So there is background this is a [18:12] reference to the municipal code. Uh [18:15] though what I read actually was from the [18:17] state law from the government code. [18:19] >> Okay. Is that okay? [18:21] >> And that is actually referenced also in [18:22] the s report on page two. [18:23] >> On page two. Okay. Okay. [18:28] » Um [18:28] >> yes. Government codes. That's the [18:30] language. Yeah. [18:31] >> Okay. Uh I I guess I have one further [18:35] question. [18:36] >> Okay. Thank you. Those are my questions. [18:40] >> Mary, go ahead. I just want to keep [18:42] this. [18:43] >> Yeah. And uh and maybe I should hold [18:45] this because I may other things may come [18:47] up if we're not done, right? Is [18:49] everybody else done their questions in [18:51] this? [18:52] >> Well, these are question these are these [18:53] are clarifying questions for Sarah. This [18:55] is a discussion. Open it up to public [18:57] comment and bring it back. [19:00] >> Okay. Okay, let's see if I can remember [19:01] now. Um, the specifically within our [19:05] ordinances, the town's ordinances, there [19:08] are specific things that are allocated [19:11] to the planning commission from what [19:13] I've been reading or appears there are. [19:16] Uh, in what sense can they do that [19:19] separately from the council if there if [19:23] we're making this kind of gesture to the [19:27] bylights? In other words, with [19:31] I can I can I with several different [19:34] instances where I've been looking at [19:36] ordinance that it'll say this decision [19:37] is made by the planning commission and [19:41] uh if we've already said well we are the [19:43] ones who have authority over over the [19:45] planning commission does that jeopardize [19:48] their authority [19:50] is that does that make it [19:53] make them not powerful enough to do [19:55] their job? uh [19:57] >> the one that we've assigned them to do. [19:59] >> Yeah. I I guess I don't see any [20:01] conflict. The um the town's municipal code is very clear in terms of [20:06] which responsibilities are for the [20:08] planning commission. Um conditional use [20:09] permits is an example. Um the planning [20:12] commission also uh hears appeals from [20:15] the ASC. Another example. Yeah. [20:17] >> Uh at the same time, the council has [20:21] authority to appoint planning [20:22] commissioners. uh and there's no uh [20:26] conflict between uh that authority to [20:28] appoint commissioners and the authority [20:30] vested in the planning commission per [20:31] the code. [20:34] >> Thank you. [20:38] » Okay, that's all for questions. Great. [20:42] >> Um [20:43] >> we already did one. [20:45] >> I I guess it's more of a discussion. [20:47] >> Okay, so yes, if we could hold up for [20:48] the discussion. Okay. Um so with that, [20:50] I'm going to open up for public comment. [20:52] Is there anyone in the room that might [20:54] want to speak on this? Linda, welcome. [21:00] » Um, my name is Linda Brothers. I'm chair [21:03] of the planning commission. The [21:04] commission very specifically discussed [21:06] whether or not to refer our bylaws [21:10] document to you uh to avoid conflict. I [21:13] did not take a vote, but it was [21:14] unanimous that we did not want to refer [21:16] them to you. Number two, uh my [21:19] observation, not as the chair, but as a [21:21] person and a member, uh we are created [21:24] by state law. State law requires our [21:26] town to have a planning. It also [21:28] requires us to have a council. And yes, [21:30] Katherine's right. There is a place [21:32] there where you could start to blur the [21:33] line. Uh point number two, I think it's [21:36] an error to blur the line. If you decide [21:39] to take uh any action on our bylaws, you [21:43] are sort of putting your thumb on the [21:45] scale of the independence of the [21:47] planning commission. I think one of the [21:50] really important points to think about [21:51] in the independence of the planning [21:53] commission is how hard you've had what a [21:55] hard time you've had in finding new [21:57] members. Uh it is a separate entity. [22:00] There are at least five places in the [22:02] code where we are very specifically [22:04] identified as the first line of review [22:08] for items such as when we sit as a board [22:10] of adjustment. So, uh there are quite a [22:14] few reasons why I think the independence [22:15] is really important and quite honestly I [22:18] would I I believe you ought to respect [22:20] that independence. Um, I think it's [22:22] better for the town for you to respect [22:24] that independence because we also [22:27] provide just like you an opportunity for [22:29] people to have public comment and to [22:31] have people have input and there are [22:33] many members of the public who uh remind [22:35] us regularly that we uh we don't do [22:38] that. I do want to support your efforts [22:41] however to look at uh committees. There [22:44] is this committee handwork. We're not a [22:46] committee. We are necessary under state [22:48] law. We are Russell necessary under the code of the town and your committees [22:52] by and large are figments. [22:56] Thing that comes to mind is figments in [22:58] my imagination but figments uh they are [23:00] created under under other authorities [23:03] and for other reasons. I speak now today [23:06] about whether you take any action at all [23:08] on our bylaws. Our bylaws are themselves [23:11] a fairly neutral activity. uh we put [23:14] them together because there was time and [23:16] time again when we were in action and [23:18] somebody didn't know the proper [23:20] procedure why do we do this when do we [23:22] do this how should we do this and so the [23:24] bylars are a very simple effort uh [23:27] they've been melted down watered down [23:29] whatever the word is uh once I knew that [23:31] you guys wanted to look at them and we [23:33] wanted to just get something in place [23:35] they were also put in place before we [23:36] had a planning director and that's why [23:38] the second attachment really basically [23:40] is just a job description or the second [23:42] piece of it which is an attachment. My [23:44] final comment is yeah, bylaws and maybe [23:48] you want to go ahead and approve our [23:49] bylaws, but then what do you do when [23:53] uh let's see 18.36.101 [23:57] is a section of the code that actually [23:59] allows us specifically in the code for [24:02] the planning commission to develop a [24:03] policy. That requires our expertise, [24:06] that requires our detailed experience. [24:08] Are you then going to start down THE [24:10] SLIPPERY SLOPE AND OH YEAH, we want to [24:12] review that policy too. An area where I [24:15] dare say maybe one of you too may know [24:18] what 18.36 [24:20] B9 is, but I doubt if all five of you [24:23] do. Uh [24:26] that's basically my final point. Thank [24:28] you for your time. [24:30] >> Thank you, Linda. [24:30] >> Can I ask a clarifying question? [24:33] >> Were we provided with 18.36.01 01 V9 in [24:37] the packet. [24:40] >> Uh I use that as an example of another uh item. It's not something [24:47] we've taken action on. It's just a [24:49] section of the code where our expertise [24:51] is required. I can give you one or I can [24:53] pull it up on your computer. [24:56] >> Thank you, Linda. [24:57] >> Yeah. Thank you. [25:00] >> All right. Any other public comment in [25:02] the room? I don't see any. So I'll move [25:05] online. Rita, [25:08] » hi. Thank you. Um, thank you for taking [25:11] my comment. Uh, you know, already the [25:14] planning commission meeting for next [25:16] week is cancelled and I don't know, I'm [25:19] not privy to the reasons, but the [25:21] previous meeting about the Horththrones [25:23] project is a perfect example of why we [25:27] need to have regular planning commission [25:29] meetings in our beautiful town. We have [25:32] extremely competent people. We have a [25:35] retired or perhaps still current squa uh [25:39] attorney on that group and here we are [25:42] consultants for for different things and so [25:47] let's let's let the planning commission [25:51] uh do their job. uh you know that I have [25:53] sent letters in previous years when [25:56] there have been only two planning [25:58] commission meetings uh during a year and [26:00] would only be about the housing element [26:02] when you know we have trucks and [26:04] buildings going up in our town every [26:07] single day and the residents don't get a [26:09] chance to ask a question to the planning [26:12] commission you know we except for the [26:15] rare chance that they do have a meeting [26:18] and uh please uh help us help the [26:23] planning commission be able to do their [26:26] job because that will help all of us [26:29] especially with all the building that's [26:31] happening here and we get a chance to [26:33] ask our questions. Thank you. [26:37] >> Thank you, Rita. Any other comments from [26:40] the public online? [26:42] I don't see any. Don't see any in the [26:44] room. Okay. So, I'm going to close [26:45] public comment, bring it back to the [26:47] council for discussion. [26:51] Who would like to start? [26:56] » Thank you. [26:57] >> Um, thank you for taking the time to do [27:00] this. [27:02] Um, I want to be very clear that [27:04] planning commission's contributions are [27:07] very important to the town and [27:11] I would like to see, you know, good good [27:15] common sense prevail with regard to when [27:18] we do or don't have power. I would [27:22] accept this these bylaws gladly. Um, I [27:27] think we need to maintain a tone of [27:30] collegiality, respect, and collaborative [27:33] work so that I do trust the planning [27:36] commission should something be coming up [27:38] that that is um notable to be working [27:42] well with staff and council to be able [27:44] to um handle that appropriately. bylaws [27:48] do make life better by [27:51] laying out rules of operation. Um, and [27:55] these these seem fairly [27:57] non-controversial to me. So, thank you [28:00] for the work. It is important to me that [28:02] the planning commission adopted them [28:04] unanimously. I respect that body. We [28:07] should all respect them. So, thank you. [28:11] >> Could I make a comment real quick on [28:12] this? Correct. My understanding is that [28:15] one planning commissioner was not [28:16] present at that meeting and had actually [28:18] submitted comments to that meeting. So, [28:20] he would not have voted. So, unanimous [28:22] yet for the four people who were there. [28:25] >> Okay, that's [28:27] >> okay. Um, does that make it nonunanimous [28:31] from a legal perspective? [28:37] » If four out of five are present, it's [28:39] unanimous as two members. I I would [28:42] still refer to that as unanimous. [28:43] Actually, the committee and commission [28:44] handbook addresses this point. [28:46] >> Yeah. Thank you. [28:50] » All right. Other discussion, [28:57] » well, um yeah, I can I can discuss this [29:00] one all day and I will keep it to five [29:02] minutes. Uh, I I do miss um the good old [29:07] days when I used to complain that the [29:10] town manager tried to control my agenda [29:13] on the trails committee. Um, now [29:15] nowadays, not only does it control it, it it you provided with it uh with an [29:22] agenda. Uh so I hear the frustration [29:26] because we see the committees uh see [29:30] what the problems are and we live the [29:33] problems every day and we'd like to have [29:36] those brought forward so that we can [29:38] solve those problems and not incur a lot [29:42] of expense and a lot of uh extra [29:44] people's times and we can discuss them [29:46] and get them done. So from my point of [29:49] view, anything that we can do at the [29:51] council, uh it may not be the standard [29:55] community standard or some anything we [29:59] can do to share authority with our [30:03] commissioners is a good thing. Uh it it [30:07] gives us balance. It gives us a second [30:09] place. It g it gets them out of it takes [30:13] away an excuse they have which is oh [30:15] well we'll let the council hand it. They [30:18] have to handle it and they do a good job [30:21] and they have a very different level of [30:23] expertise than we do and they have [30:26] different problems than we do. Uh and [30:28] I'm I'm all for supporting them in [30:30] whatever way they want us to support [30:33] them to say yes. Thank you for doing [30:38] bylaws. Thank you for trying to operate [30:40] more cleanly. We could all use a re a [30:42] redo and a refresh. We appreciate it. We [30:46] don't need to approve your work. Your [30:48] work is good work because it's working [30:51] for you and you're working for us. So, I [30:55] just think that uh it's an unnecessary [30:58] step. We we we don't need to express our [31:03] authority in this way. [31:08] Thank you, [31:10] Mary. I'm not married. Helenhead. [31:16] » Okay. Um, [31:18] so I don't have an issue with the [31:21] planning commission clarifying creating [31:24] clarifying bylaws on how they conduct [31:26] their meetings on how their what their [31:29] jurisdiction is um on on many of the [31:33] things that are very vague in our code [31:35] and in our handbook. And um I don't have [31:38] an issue with that and this I feel that [31:41] this document is a good step in the [31:44] right direction. However, [31:46] I take issue with the many [31:48] contradictions that are included in the [31:50] document. Um, not only directly in the [31:52] document, but with that they set up [31:55] changes and differences with respect to [31:57] how the town manages the ASC or how the [32:00] ASC is managed. Um, so that's number [32:03] one. Um, let me just indicate some of [32:06] the um contradictions that I found. Um [32:10] the language of the bylaws states that [32:13] um [32:16] uh people uh commissioners will be [32:18] appointed for four-year terms by the [32:20] town council as vacancies arise. Um that [32:24] hasn't been the tradition. Um that has [32:27] that people have not been appointed to [32:28] four-year terms. They've been appointed [32:30] to conclude the term of a person who's [32:33] vacating their position. [32:36] And um that's also how ASUC interprets [32:39] that thing. So that's already one [32:41] difference that we're introducing into [32:43] these bylaws. Um I personally don't [32:46] actually have a problem with the [32:47] planning commission deciding to appoint [32:50] someone to a four-year term even if [32:52] there's only a one year left. But it I'm [32:55] pointing out that this is a difference [32:57] with respect to how we uh deal with ASC. [33:01] I did try to go somewhat through our [33:03] code and I couldn't um in the time [33:06] available to really do an exhaustive um [33:09] comparison of this. I wasn't able to do [33:11] that. So I don't know if our code has a [33:12] little bit more detail. Our code is [33:14] really slim when it comes to both [33:17] planning commission and the ASUC. And in [33:19] fact it's each of them gets one page. Um [33:22] so clearly I think bylaws would be [33:24] useful because there are um quite a few [33:26] situations where people aren't clear on [33:29] what they should be doing. Um I do think [33:31] standardization of all these processes [33:33] should be done for both commission. [33:35] Um the other issues is I'm not clear [33:38] based on the writing for um the election [33:41] of the chair and the vice chair because [33:43] the way it's stated it says by annual [33:45] election. [33:47] um commissioners will elect the office [33:50] of chair and vice chair and then [33:52] traditionally these offices are filled [33:53] by the most senior members of the [33:56] commission at the time of an annual [33:59] election [34:01] typically held in the fall and rotate [34:04] collegially amongst the members. Those [34:06] two um [34:09] particip what do you call them [34:10] participles or whatever those two [34:12] segments of that sentence do conflict [34:15] with each other. I mean either at the [34:18] time of the annual election the most [34:19] senior person is being elected or um [34:23] it's going to go through sort of a you [34:26] know it's going to collegially rotate [34:28] amongst the members given that we've had [34:30] problems with this in the town itself [34:32] with respect to the town council. [34:33] Clearly that needs some clarification. [34:35] Um and and maybe it's just a simple [34:37] verbiage change, but in my mind, the [34:40] election of the chair and the vice chair [34:41] should rotate through all members of [34:44] town of the planning commission. Um and [34:46] you can start with the most senior, but [34:48] the reality is the most senior will [34:50] still be the most senior the next year, and the so I don't feel that [34:55] this statement um allows for rotating [34:58] collegially amongst all the members. Um [35:02] and then you know I I did want to bring [35:04] up the point that um [35:07] we have had we have had a committee and [35:10] commission handbook for many years that [35:12] has been in development [35:14] to improve and update it and I take [35:18] Linda's point about whether or not the [35:21] two commissions should actually be part [35:22] of that and I would tend to agree that [35:24] they probably shouldn't be part of that [35:26] but that is also something that hasn't [35:28] been finalized at the town council level [35:30] and I [35:30] think that that was a decision the town [35:32] council would be to make. Um, [35:35] and then let's see what else is on my [35:37] line. Uh, except [35:42] so it does say there was some confusion [35:44] on my mind about special calling special [35:46] meetings. It's not listed that it could [35:48] be called by town council or staff. It's [35:51] only listed by planning commission, I [35:53] believe. [35:54] Um, [35:56] and then just to note, [35:58] um, I note Linda's comments about the [36:01] town council not having a say, um, in [36:04] the amendments to the bylaws. Um, I tend not to 100% agree with her about [36:10] or the planning commission being able to [36:12] stay independent regard, you know, even [36:15] if the town council were to have some [36:17] say on how the bylaws are. Um, [36:24] uh, see, review of land use application. [36:28] Let me just check that real quick. [36:31] Um, and oh, well, before I get to that, [36:34] you had mentioned 18.36.010B. [36:38] I'm at that point in my on my computer. [36:40] I do not see anything relevant to [36:43] planning commission bylaws. So, either I [36:45] have the number wrong or or something. But, you know, I I [36:51] don't [36:53] um so I that's it for right now. I'll [36:55] probably I'll come back to that other [36:56] point. [36:57] >> Mr. Chairman, she made those comments [37:00] during the comment period on our rules [37:03] which we greatly appreciated and I will [37:06] be happy to go through the comments she [37:08] made because we specifically discussed [37:10] at least the three issues and came to [37:12] the language that we have here. my [37:15] reference to the uh undergrounding uh [37:18] that's the section of the building code [37:21] that requires any new building to [37:22] underground the electrical power lines. [37:24] And if you look at 0109, you will see [37:27] that there's a section se the sentence [37:29] in there that specifically gives the [37:31] planning commission authority to come up [37:34] with a policy. So I use that as example [37:37] of asking me of of asking you where [37:40] you're going to draw the line. if you [37:42] want to look at our planning commission [37:44] policy rules or then are you going to [37:45] want to look at the policy we make under [37:47] a specific law and and it goes to my [37:50] argument about independence. It had [37:51] nothing to do with the bylaws per se. [37:54] Sorry, my phone's talking. [37:58] Uh so that that that's with regard to [38:01] your comment about the most senior. It [38:03] doesn't say the most senior. It says the it's multi it's plural. [38:09] Uh that's also your question about [38:11] filling a vacant spot. We were worried [38:14] about having so many vacancies that for [38:17] example when the planning commission [38:19] heard the EIR on the Stamford [38:22] development between uh a vacancy and [38:26] ethical conflicts there were only three [38:28] of us and that's pretty slim pickings [38:31] for the biggest development that's come [38:33] through this town since I've been here. [38:35] So that's specifically why we chose for [38:38] us to try to um fill the vacancies [38:42] rather than wait till the end of the [38:43] year. I understood and I appreciated [38:46] Rebecca very much that you submitted [38:48] those comments and we did discuss them [38:50] and uh I think one of your other [38:52] comments was submitted by one of the [38:54] commissioners and we also specifically [38:55] discussed all of your comments that were [38:57] submitted in his absence. [39:00] >> Okay. Thank you, Ellen. [39:06] Um, so Chair Brothers, so I am grateful [39:11] for everything you do for the town. [39:14] Um, and I am grateful for the planning [39:17] commission and what they do for the [39:18] town. Um, [39:22] but you aren't elected and so I'm [39:25] worried about this action. [39:29] Um I would also point out that the part [39:32] of the reason that we're having a hard [39:34] time finding commissioners is that we [39:36] have appro you know 19 missions I think [39:40] committees [39:41] um and 4200 people. So basically we have [39:45] about roughly give or take 200 people [39:48] for every uh committee [39:51] and that includes our kids which are not [39:54] allowed. So part of it is just we have [40:01] you know a lot of volunteer [40:02] opportunities with people with not as [40:04] much time as they used to have [40:06] potentially. [40:08] Um, [40:10] so and I appreciate what you guys are [40:12] doing, but [40:15] uh this it it does, you know, I would [40:19] accept [40:22] uh I would accept these bylaws with the [40:25] striking of the word generally. [40:28] I would say that these activities will [40:30] be at the request of council or planning [40:32] staff. [40:34] So, um, [40:38] uh, because I am concerned because, you [40:42] know, for instance, the item that we [40:45] heard tonight with, um, [40:48] uh, concerning Hawthorne, [40:52] I have the sense that from your comments [40:55] tonight that you would go off in a [40:58] different direction from what this body [41:00] is headed towards. And so that concerns [41:04] me. So [41:09] » So you have passed your time. [41:13] >> Please. Sorry. [41:16] >> Thank you. [41:20] » So [41:21] um [41:23] so those are um so that's you know so I [41:26] appreciate again what planning [41:27] commission is doing but I do have some [41:29] concerns. Thank you. [41:33] All right, everybody had their say. [41:36] Okay. Um, [41:38] so [41:40] I am sensitive to the fact that the [41:43] planning commission is not elected. Um, [41:45] and I think it's appro this is sort of [41:47] to my mind this is an appropriate [41:48] compromise to accept them. Um, the [41:51] council's ult ultimately responsible for [41:54] the finances of this town. Um, and I [41:56] could easily imagine the planning [41:57] commission could decide to start doing a [41:59] bunch of stuff that could potentially [42:01] take a lot of staff time. Um, and that [42:03] seems inappropriate. On the other hand, [42:05] I've been on the planning commission and [42:07] we've had a planning commission a long [42:08] time and it's worked well. So, I would [42:10] be in favor of accepting these and see [42:13] how it goes. I'm a little uncomfortable [42:15] with the four years. I mean, that's not [42:16] the way we've done it. We've always just [42:18] had people fill out the term. It's not [42:20] that you had to wait a year to assign [42:22] them, but if there was two years left, [42:24] you only did it for two years. And that [42:26] way, we kept everything regular. I would [42:28] be more comfortable with that, but to [42:30] me, that's relatively small. And if you [42:33] guys feel like you discussed it, we can [42:35] try it and if it's not working, then it [42:37] can come back here and we can try to fix [42:39] it. So, personally, I'm comfortable with [42:42] accepting these. Um, but I do think it's [42:44] important that we accept them. [42:47] So, with that [42:51] on on um Council Member Flynn's [42:55] comments, [42:58] uh I thought that was um your points [43:00] were really well taken, Rebecca. the uh [43:03] the and I I thought they all pointed to [43:07] the fact that we would do a lot better [43:10] if we just let the planning commission [43:14] make its own bylaws because we have not [43:16] been able to fix the uh committee [43:19] handbook. We have not been able to get a [43:21] consistent ASC planning commission. We [43:24] have not taken any of these inaccuracies [43:26] out. And it's been years and years. And [43:30] if you saw Linda at work looking doing [43:34] her best and maybe making a few mistakes [43:37] than going to work at the planning [43:40] commission and discovering that in fact [43:42] you can't get anybody to fill that [43:43] four-year uh four-year thing. Maybe we [43:46] better make it one year. Then they don't [43:49] have to come to us and get our quote [43:51] approval or our acceptance. they would [43:54] be able to actually have some elacrity [43:57] and some mobility and some so I just [44:01] suggest that your points are really well [44:04] taken and and yman effort that somebody [44:07] actually tried to fix some of the [44:08] inaccuracies and yes it didn't wasn't [44:11] complete and and everybody knows that [44:13] we're to air as human uh but uh to be [44:17] flexible is divine and and uh and we're [44:22] giving we could give them the [44:24] opportunity to be [44:27] >> Can I ask a question actually about [44:29] these the terms because my understanding [44:32] um is that right now the terms expire [44:36] one year apart [44:38] is that accurate in 27 and 28 the [44:42] four-year terms we are not on a two-year [44:44] cycle even right now so this might be [44:48] something that we oh like we might want [44:51] to consider are more important like in [44:55] terms of the timing of appointments. [44:59] Um [45:00] you know maybe we do option three I [45:03] think it was where we ask them to come [45:05] back and fix this section or something [45:09] [clears throat] with the appointment [45:10] opportunity. [45:13] >> Okay. So I think we have before us [45:16] roughly four choices. We can accept [45:17] them. We can vote not to accept them. We [45:21] can direct staff to develop a policy or [45:23] we could continue this for a future [45:24] meeting. Um I would accept a motion on [45:28] any of those four. [45:30] >> Motion to accept as they are. [45:33] >> Okay. Do I have a second? [45:36] I will second it. Okay. So we have a [45:38] motion. We have a second. [45:39] >> Could I make an alternate emot amendment [45:42] or? Yeah. [45:44] I would um be able to accept these if we [45:47] could change uh section two officer [45:49] subcommittees roles 2.0 and it right now [45:53] it's traditionally these offices are [45:54] filled by the most senior members of the [45:56] commission at the time of the annual [45:57] election typically held in fall and [45:59] rotate collegially amongst the members. [46:01] I would add the word initially. These [46:03] offices are initially filled by the most [46:05] senior members of the commission at the [46:07] time of the annual election. typical [46:08] whatever I would add the word initially [46:10] to that just to clarify that we're not [46:12] going to be bouncing back and forth [46:14] between the most senior members in the [46:16] case that um the collegial portion of it [46:20] doesn't work out. [46:24] » So Judith would you accept a [46:27] modification to the motion that the [46:29] planning commission consider this [46:32] versus that we are [46:34] >> consider I would accept them as they [46:36] are. I trust the planning commission to [46:38] go ahead and take these under advisement [46:41] on their good points, their logical [46:43] points, and [46:45] >> I don't want to undo the work of the [46:47] planning commission. [46:48] >> Yeah. And that and that was sort of what [46:49] I was trying to suggest is that they [46:51] take it under consideration, but we're [46:52] not requesting a change. We're [46:54] requesting that they consider it. [46:56] >> Yeah. But but accepting like I would [46:58] >> Yeah. Yeah. Accepting and Yeah. So, all [47:01] right. So, we have a motion. We have a [47:03] second. Um all in favor? I guess I would [47:05] just note that um uh Council Member [47:07] Flynn made an alternative motion. It was [47:10] there was I did not hear a second on [47:11] that motion. [47:12] >> My apolog. [47:13] >> Um and so unless someone's going to [47:15] second it, I'd say that one dies for [47:17] lack of second. [47:18] >> I'm happy to second. [47:19] >> Okay. [47:20] So now the order. Okay. So we have [47:22] a motion, we have a second. We have two [47:24] motions. And remind me the order that [47:26] they get. There's a specific order [47:28] >> under Rosenberg's rules of order. They [47:29] go in reverse order. So, Council Flynn's [47:31] uh motion will be voted on first and [47:33] then Council Member um Hasco's motion [47:35] would be voted on if Council Flynn's [47:36] motion fails. [47:37] >> Um can I asked to make a friendly [47:40] amendment [47:41] um to council member Flynn's? [47:46] >> Um [47:46] >> I'm allowed to consider it. Yes. [47:49] >> To strike the word generally. [47:51] >> Where is that? [47:53] >> Um on uh advising town council page 50 [47:58] of the packet. Page two [48:01] of the bylaws [48:06] addendum. [48:07] >> Two of the bylaws add [48:09] >> of the addendum. [48:12] So advising and uh the last sentence and [48:15] advising the town council. So generally [48:17] these activities will be at the request [48:19] of the town council or planning staff. [48:24] >> Page 50. Sorry. Um P is sorry. Could you [48:29] give me the page again? [48:31] >> It's page two of the addendum. [48:34] >> What page of the packet [48:35] >> and page 50 of the packet. [48:38] >> And then where's the generally? [48:40] >> It's the last sentence of the paragraph. [48:48] planning assets on page 50 [48:56] of the of which paragraph? I'm sorry, [48:58] I'm trying to find it in [48:59] >> on um on page 50 advising the town [49:03] council section five. [49:05] >> They provide recommendations to town [49:07] council on including generally these [49:10] activities with the rest of the town [49:11] council. [49:13] Um I guess [49:18] I I would not accept that because I [49:20] think there's [49:22] well I think there's a role for the [49:24] planning commission to come up with [49:25] their own projects as long as it fits [49:28] into their budget in which case they [49:30] would not be able to allow they would [49:31] not have access to staff. But if they [49:35] want to work on a project that they want [49:37] to work on I I think somehow they need [49:40] to be allowed to do that. I don't know. [49:43] >> So So we have two motions. We've got the [49:46] motion from Council Member Flynn. I'd [49:49] like to take a vote on it. So, all in [49:52] favor of Rebecca Flynn's motion, say I. [49:55] >> I. [49:57] >> Any opposed? [49:58] >> Opposed? [49:59] >> Nay. Nay. [50:00] >> Okay. So, it's [50:03] two two A and three nay. So, that motion [50:06] fails. Um, moving on to the motion from [50:10] Council Member Hasco. [50:12] All in favor say I. [50:16] >> I as long as you have what we've [50:19] discussed. [50:20] >> No, no, this is her motion. [50:22] >> Yeah. I mean, [50:23] >> well, her motion was is to basically [50:25] accept them. That that was basically and [50:27] then she was going to trust the planning [50:29] commission to have heard our comments [50:31] and and deal with them appropriately. [50:32] But that but we're not the only thing [50:35] we're voting on here is we're accepting [50:37] their bylaws. [50:38] >> Okay. Well, I just want people be aware [50:40] that we didn't discuss we I discussed [50:43] it, but we didn't talk about the fact [50:44] that special meetings based on these [50:45] bylaws, special meetings can only be [50:47] called by the commissioner, not by the [50:49] staff or the town council. So, just be [50:50] aware of that thing [50:52] >> and and so maybe planning commission can [50:54] take that under advisement as well. So [50:56] anyway, I think we have three I's and I [50:59] didn't get Naz's areas [51:03] was that [51:04] >> I and hope that planning commission will [51:06] consider these carefully. [51:08] >> And Helen, where did you come out? [51:09] >> Um I will say reluctantly I but I'm I [51:13] have my concerns. So [51:14] >> Okay. All right. So with that, um the [51:18] motion passes. Thank you, Linda, for [51:21] giving us your input. Thank you [51:24] everyone. Good night. All right. So now [51:26] let's move on to the next item in the [51:28] agenda. [51:31] Right. [51:39] » Tell you it's so hot in here. I feel [51:41] like my brain is baking. [laughter] [51:43] >> Well, other things. [51:45] >> All right. So, moving on to 7B. [51:49] This is um consider acceptance of an [51:52] updated council for 2026 council [51:54] meetings. And this has to do with our [51:57] regular meetings falling around [51:58] holidays. So, is there a staff report to [52:02] go with this or is there any discussion? [52:04] >> Uh, no formal presentation. Just [52:08] >> um council received the remaining uh [52:11] meeting schedule for the year and uh [52:14] consider the November meetings or [52:17] regular two regular meetings in [52:19] November. one falls on uh November 11th, [52:23] which is Veterans Day, and then the [52:25] Wednesday before Thanksgiving. [52:27] So, uh council can consider scheduling a [52:31] special meeting on November 18th, [52:35] um which is a regularly scheduled [52:38] planning commission meeting. So, [52:40] planning commission would have to be [52:42] scheduled or schedule their own special [52:44] meeting. Uh or alternatively the council [52:48] can discuss uh alternate special meeting [52:51] dates. [52:52] >> Okay. All right. Any questions for [52:53] Veronica? [52:56] » Um you had answered my question before [52:59] that in the event that it we decide on [53:02] this date that the planning commission [53:04] meeting that was scheduled for that date [53:05] would then be cancelled or rescheduled [53:08] >> or moved. [53:08] >> Just wanted to confirm that. [53:10] >> Correct. Ive council decide to hold uh [53:13] November 18th, then planning commission [53:15] will have to reschedu. [53:18] >> Any other questions for Veronica? [53:19] >> I do have a question. Um I don't see it [53:22] listed. I'm assuming uh December 23rd is [53:26] cancelled, not scheduled. [53:30] >> Uh [53:30] >> because that would be the following one [53:32] after [53:34] >> Yeah, that's our second December meeting [53:36] which is usually cancelled for the [53:38] holidays. Just double checking. Thank [53:40] you. [53:43] >> All right. Any other questions? All [53:44] right. [53:46] We'll open it up for public [53:47] comment. Anyone in the room like to [53:49] comment on this hot topic? All right. I [53:51] see nobody in the room. Um and I see [53:54] nobody online. So, I'm going to close [53:56] public comment. [53:57] >> Um bring it either back for discussion [54:00] or for a motion. [54:02] I will propose a motion right [54:04] >> to cancel the two regular November [54:06] meetings on November 11th and November [54:08] 25th and schedule a special meeting on [54:10] November. [54:11] >> Thank you. Do I have a second? [54:13] >> Second. [54:14] >> All in favor say I. [54:16] >> I. [54:16] All right. Passes unanimously. Thank [54:18] you. All right. Moving on to 7C, amended [54:22] employment agreement for the town [54:24] manager. [54:25] >> Uh thank you, mayor. I will present this [54:27] item. I do not have a PowerPoint [54:29] presentation. Um this is a um an item to [54:34] consider an amendment to the town [54:36] manager's uh 2025 employment agreement [54:39] with the town. Uh the the amendment [54:43] would increase the annual base salary [54:45] from $250,000 to $268,500 [54:51] um effective July 1, 2026. Um and that [54:54] effective date is the same as the rest [54:56] of town staff um which were um uh [55:00] authorized CPI adjustments. Uh the town [55:03] manager contract does not have any [55:05] automatic CPI adjustments. Uh and so [55:08] that is um the only amendment um that is [55:12] uh proposed by this and um that [55:16] concludes my report. [55:17] >> Thank you. Questions for Katherine? [55:20] All right. I don't see any questions for [55:22] Katherine. I will open it up for [55:25] >> I was just going to ask if there was any [55:27] changes made to any of the contracts [55:28] other than what you just discussed ba [55:31] from what we discussed in special [55:33] meeting. Uh no other change. This is the [55:36] only uh only change is the salary [55:38] adjustment. [55:41] » All right, I'm going to open it for [55:43] public comment at schoolhouse. I'm [55:45] seeing no one in the schoolhouse. [55:48] I see no one online. I'm going to close [55:50] public comment. bring it back to the [55:52] council for discussion or a motion. [55:57] » I make a motion to accept. I second it [56:01] >> contract. [56:01] >> Okay, we have a motion. We have a [56:03] second. All in favor say I. [56:04] >> Can I actually I have a comment? [56:07] >> Uh, sure. [56:09] >> Thank you. Um, I would just note [56:12] obviously I support this. I voted for [56:14] it. Um, but I would note that we [56:18] and this is a different topic and it's [56:19] not agendaized. So, this is just a [56:21] comment that we also need to think about [56:23] raises if the tax measure passes about [56:26] raises for uh the rest of town staff in [56:31] January. Thank you. [56:34] >> Okay, I have a motion. I have a second. [56:36] All in favor say I. [56:37] >> I. [56:38] >> Okay. Passes unanimously. [56:40] Congratulations, Darcy. We're really [56:42] glad to have you here. All right. Um let [56:45] me move on to the next item, which is [56:48] 7D. [56:52] So Tony, is this you? [56:54] >> Yeah. [57:53] That made a difference. Opening the back [57:56] door [57:57] >> was a major change. [58:01] » Where's your book? We can open this [58:03] door. [laughter] [58:04] >> Good point. I was thinking of the only [58:07] lap book, the only book I have is a [58:10] laptop [58:11] or a chair maybe. [58:13] >> I don't know. If you push that one all [58:14] the way open, Mary, does it stay? [58:16] >> Push it all the way like completely wide [58:19] open. Does it latch? [58:23] » Okay, [58:29] I appreciate that. [58:31] Yeah, [58:33] >> we'll separate through this. This our [58:35] last. [58:38] [laughter] [58:42] » All right. How we doing? There we go. [58:44] >> Great. We're doing great. [58:51] So I have a brief presentation and then [58:55] um we have representatives from Eaton [58:58] Associates here tonight online. Uh they [59:00] will uh do a brief presentation as well [59:03] and then we will uh open it up for [59:05] questions from council. Uh and then but [59:08] tonight's item is to consider adopting a [59:11] resolution uh for the town manager to [59:13] execute an agree professional services [59:15] agreement with Eaton Associates an [59:17] amount not to exceed 175900 [59:21] uh from October 1st 2026 through June [59:24] 30th 2028. [59:34] So we began the RFP process uh back in [59:37] May. Uh we did receive six uh proposals. [59:40] Uh the six uh firms are Apex 8 [59:45] Associates, Infinity Technologies, [59:48] Silicon Connections, Steepford, and the [59:50] network connection. Uh also the chart [59:54] here [59:56] uh has their three-year uh cost [59:59] proposals. um [1:00:01] ranging from 175,000 for three years to [1:00:06] uh 426,000. [1:00:11] Uh the selection criteria was in four [1:00:14] separate areas. Uh one was the a review [1:00:16] of the proposal packet. Um every every [1:00:20] proposal that was submitted met all the [1:00:22] criteria that was requested in the RFP. [1:00:25] Um we we were the second criteria was [1:00:29] interviews. We interviewed five of the [1:00:30] six uh firms. Um the third criteria was [1:00:35] cost estimates and then the last [1:00:37] criteria was references. [1:00:39] Um in all categories the each client or [1:00:44] each propo proposal each firm did really [1:00:47] well in regards to interviews and uh and [1:00:51] then we ranked by cost estimates. Uh but [1:00:53] where the separation came for Eaton [1:00:56] Associates was uh the references. Um we reached out to two of their [1:01:03] references who got back to us within [1:01:06] either the same day or by the next day. [1:01:09] And we had scheduled um follow-up calls [1:01:13] with these reference checks. And those [1:01:16] calls lasted about 45 minutes to one [1:01:18] hour. Uh and then one of the references [1:01:21] actually said we should talk to a third [1:01:23] um uh reference as well. Uh the three [1:01:27] references were in three separate [1:01:29] environments. Uh one reference was uh [1:01:33] completely 100% remote uh environment. [1:01:36] The second one was hybrid and the third [1:01:38] one was 100% where eaten was um hands-on [1:01:43] uh their IT department which is were uh [1:01:46] our which is our environment. um the [1:01:49] hybrid reference um five years ago they [1:01:53] were in the same boat as we are in [1:01:55] regards to their um IT uh department. [1:01:59] However, over the last five years [1:02:00] they've been able to make some [1:02:01] additional investments. Uh they've hired [1:02:03] some IT analysts, they've got an IT [1:02:05] manager, so it's more of a hybrid [1:02:07] approach. uh their contract is uh coming [1:02:10] up and um they did uh state that they [1:02:14] were going to be keeping Eaton and [1:02:16] Associates on as a as their IT service [1:02:19] provider even though they are taking on [1:02:22] more um IT responsibilities. And so [1:02:24] these comments that we received uh [1:02:26] weighed very heavily uh in the favor of [1:02:28] Eaton and Associates and uh combined [1:02:31] with everything uh taken into [1:02:33] consideration uh is the reason why staff [1:02:35] is recommending Eaton and Associates uh [1:02:37] to be our next IT service provider. Um [1:02:41] joining us tonight Associates team is [1:02:45] John Eaton is the CEO, Gabrielle Nelson [1:02:48] who is the account manager and maybe or [1:02:51] maybe not Adrian Eaton. I know he had a [1:02:53] time constraint, but u um that's my my [1:02:56] introduction of the Eaton Associates [1:02:57] team and then I will turn it over to [1:02:59] them for further um presentation. [1:03:05] » Hi, thank you. [1:03:06] >> Hi. Hi everybody. Um I can share my [1:03:09] screen [1:03:10] >> and good evening everybody. This is John [1:03:12] Eaten. [1:03:22] » All right. Uh, so good evening everyone [1:03:24] and thank you for inviting us to join [1:03:26] you all today. Uh, my name is Gabby [1:03:28] Nelson. I would be the town's account [1:03:31] manager and primary point of contact. [1:03:34] John Eaton, president, is also here with [1:03:36] me. Uh first we do want to thank the [1:03:38] town for the opportunity to participate [1:03:41] in the RFP process. We do recognize the [1:03:44] amount of time, coordination, and effort [1:03:46] that goes into a process like this, and [1:03:49] we really appreciate all the work that [1:03:50] this the town staff put into it. Uh [1:03:54] we're honored to have been selected and [1:03:55] we're really excited about the [1:03:57] opportunity to partner with Portola [1:03:58] Valley. Um for those of you who may not [1:04:01] be familiar with us, we would like to [1:04:03] take the next few minutes to introduce [1:04:05] who we are. um how we support our [1:04:07] municipal clients and what the town can [1:04:10] expect from us as a partner. [1:04:12] Um I I'll leave it up to the council for [1:04:15] what they prefer, but you can please [1:04:17] feel free to ask questions either [1:04:18] throughout the presentation or we can [1:04:20] leave uh time at the end. I don't know [1:04:22] if there is a current preference for the [1:04:24] council. [1:04:27] » I mean, why don't you give us your [1:04:29] presentation and then I'll open it up to [1:04:31] the council members for questions. [1:04:33] >> You got it. [1:04:36] Um, all right. So, to start, we are a [1:04:38] local company. Our headquarters are in [1:04:40] Sonteo and we have a long history of [1:04:42] supporting organizations throughout the [1:04:44] BA Bay Area and surrounding communities. [1:04:47] We provide comprehensive IT services and [1:04:50] our role goes well beyond simply [1:04:52] responding just when something breaks. [1:04:54] Our goal is to become an extension of [1:04:56] the town's team and to provide technical [1:04:59] resources, cyber security expertise, uh, [1:05:02] and strategic guidance needed to support [1:05:04] the town's operations. Uh, we also [1:05:07] understand that supporting a local [1:05:09] government organization comes with very [1:05:11] unique requirements around security, [1:05:15] compliance, availability, and public [1:05:17] service. So we do want to stress that we [1:05:20] are SOCK 2 certified and CEUS compliant. [1:05:24] Uh we also have extensive experience [1:05:26] supporting municipalities and other [1:05:28] public sector organizations with IT [1:05:30] environments and requirements that are [1:05:32] very similar to Portola Valley. [1:05:37] Um so what you can expect from us uh [1:05:40] during our partnership our focus will be [1:05:42] keeping the town's technology secure, [1:05:45] reliable and available. We do provide [1:05:48] 247 365 infrastructure and cyber [1:05:52] security monitoring, meaning that there [1:05:54] are eyes on the town's environment [1:05:57] around the clock. Um, our help desk [1:06:00] operates during extended business hours [1:06:03] and we also have processes in place to [1:06:05] respond to any priority one issues [1:06:08] should they occur outside of standard [1:06:10] hours. Uh, [snorts] we also take a [1:06:13] proactive approach when it comes to [1:06:15] maintenance. So rather than waiting for [1:06:17] an issue to occur, we perform regularly [1:06:20] scheduled maintenance to keep systems [1:06:22] patched and updated and operating as [1:06:24] they should. Um, as part of this [1:06:27] process, we also validate backups, [1:06:30] review alerts, and we will help identify [1:06:32] any potential issues before they become [1:06:35] a larger problem for the town. And of [1:06:38] course, maintenance is always going to [1:06:40] occur outside of town business hours to [1:06:42] pres prevent any disruption to staff. [1:06:46] Um, we also want to uh stress, it's an [1:06:49] important note that our role isn't just [1:06:51] limited to day-to-day IT support. We [1:06:54] really do want to be a strategic partner [1:06:56] to the town. And this will include [1:06:58] helping with IT project management, uh [1:07:01] technology road mapaps, budgeting and [1:07:04] planning, uh life cycle management, and [1:07:07] any long-term strategic decisions. [1:07:10] Um our goal is to really understand [1:07:12] where the town is today, where it wants [1:07:15] to go, and then we can help build a [1:07:17] practical technology roadmap to get [1:07:19] there. [1:07:24] Uh cyber security is a major part of our [1:07:27] approach. As part of our partnership, we [1:07:29] would deploy and manage a number of [1:07:31] cyber security tools designed to [1:07:33] strengthen the town's overall security [1:07:35] posture. Uh these tools don't simply [1:07:39] alert us when something unusual happens [1:07:41] where appropriate. They can actually [1:07:43] take automated action to help contain a [1:07:45] threat. Um, we do see the combination of [1:07:49] technology, [1:07:51] monitoring, automation, and human [1:07:54] oversight as critical to providing [1:07:57] comprehensive IT support to the town. [1:08:03] Uh, something else that's extremely [1:08:05] important to us is accountability. Uh, [1:08:08] we provide the same level of care and [1:08:10] attention to all of our clients [1:08:12] regardless of their size. Uh some [1:08:14] examples here are representative of [1:08:17] clients that have environments very [1:08:19] similar to Portola Valley. [1:08:22] Uh we establish service level objectives [1:08:25] with all of our clients and we [1:08:27] continuously monitor how we're [1:08:29] performing against those expectations. [1:08:32] Uh we track service metrics through live [1:08:35] dashboards and we use those metrics to [1:08:37] identify trends, address issues and [1:08:40] continually improve our service. We also [1:08:43] provide regular reporting so the town [1:08:45] has visibility into our ticket metrics. [1:08:48] Uh we really see these metrics as a way [1:08:50] to demonstrate our performance through [1:08:52] clear and measurable results. [1:09:00] Uh we have significant experience [1:09:02] supporting local government [1:09:03] organizations. Here are two examples of [1:09:06] government clients that we currently [1:09:07] support. Um while we do understand that [1:09:11] every organization is different, uh [1:09:13] these clients have many of the same [1:09:15] considerations that Portullah Valley [1:09:17] has. Uh this is including public sector [1:09:20] operations, cyber security requirements, [1:09:22] compliance considerations, and then just [1:09:25] the need for reliable technology. [1:09:28] Um that experience that we are bringing [1:09:30] is valuable because we understand that [1:09:32] municipal IT isn't just simply about [1:09:34] keeping computers running. uh technology [1:09:37] supports critical public services and we [1:09:40] know that when systems are unavailable [1:09:42] it directly impacts the community. So [1:09:45] our experience working with the town [1:09:48] with our experience working with [1:09:49] municipalities will allow us to bring [1:09:51] that same perspective to the town. [1:09:58] Uh so ultimately we really want to be [1:10:00] more than an IT vendor. Uh the qualities [1:10:03] we strive to bring to every partnership [1:10:06] is responsiveness, reliability, pro [1:10:09] proactivity, and uh accountability. [1:10:12] Uh we want town staff to know who to [1:10:15] call. Uh they want we want them to know [1:10:17] that we will respond and just as [1:10:19] importantly that we're looking ahead and [1:10:21] identifying opportunities before they [1:10:24] become problems. [1:10:26] Uh we also place a great deal of value [1:10:28] on the relationships we build with our [1:10:30] clients. and we're really happy to hear [1:10:33] that Tony experienced that when he was [1:10:35] calling our references. [1:10:37] Um, how we uh how our partners [1:10:39] experience working with us truly [1:10:41] matters. Uh, we're proud of the [1:10:43] relationships we have developed with our [1:10:45] existing government clients and we're [1:10:47] grateful that they view us as a trusted [1:10:49] extension of their team and we really [1:10:52] expect we really hope to have that same [1:10:54] relationship to build that same [1:10:56] relationship uh with Portola Valley. [1:11:04] Uh and then just to close, we want to [1:11:06] thank you again for the opportunity to [1:11:08] introduce ourselves and for the [1:11:10] confidence the town has placed in us. Uh [1:11:12] we're really excited about the [1:11:14] opportunity to partner with Portola [1:11:15] Valley and we look forward to building a [1:11:18] relationship with the town and helping [1:11:20] Portola Valley maintain a secure, [1:11:22] reliable, and well-managed technology [1:11:25] environment. [1:11:27] So, thank you and happy to answer any [1:11:29] questions. [1:11:32] >> Thank you. [1:11:34] All right. Um, clarifying questions to [1:11:37] Tony or John or Gabrielle? [1:11:42] » I do. [1:11:43] >> Go ahead. [1:11:44] >> Hey. Um, could you go back and show the [1:11:48] slide on the uh financials, Tony? [1:12:12] While you're doing that, I'll ask a [1:12:14] different question. Um, this is based on [1:12:16] our normal contractor contract, right? [1:12:20] >> Correct. They have agreed to our um our [1:12:22] standard professional services [1:12:23] agreement. [1:12:24] >> And had you or anybody representing the [1:12:29] town considered the termination notice [1:12:32] period? It's 30 days if we terminate. [1:12:35] And my question [1:12:37] is whether it was considered that that [1:12:40] may be pretty short to put in place [1:12:43] somebody else. I don't know if that was [1:12:45] a subject of discussion. [1:12:54] I have not considered this. Um, [1:12:57] but if that is something the council [1:12:59] would like to direct staff to discuss [1:13:01] it. [1:13:01] >> Yeah, thank you. [1:13:03] >> I just wanted to know where you'd [1:13:04] already been before I start discussing [1:13:06] things. Okay, Tony, on this um we are [1:13:13] in a middle of the range. I mean, were [1:13:15] there differences in the level of [1:13:17] services driving these quotes or was it [1:13:19] apples to apples? [1:13:20] >> It was mostly apples to apples. There [1:13:22] were some uh like like the number of [1:13:25] hours on site for um there were some [1:13:30] variation between special projects. [1:13:34] >> Some it was included in the monthly [1:13:37] rate, others it was a separate charge. [1:13:39] Uh but um the average varied between [1:13:43] what the numbers between what Apex, [1:13:46] Eaton and Associates and Steepford those [1:13:48] were all comparable uh [1:13:50] >> okay pricing models that um they had. [1:13:53] >> Okay, thank you. Um, one question I have [1:13:57] is in terms of the capacity if the [1:14:02] references are keeping them. This [1:14:04] question is for Eaton. And how do you [1:14:07] scale? Um, because you're obviously, you [1:14:09] know, needing to if you're taking on new [1:14:11] clients. So, what what asurances would [1:14:14] we have? [1:14:15] >> Yeah. Well, well, we're used to scaling. [1:14:18] So, that is not an issue. We have the [1:14:20] ability to scale quickly based on need. [1:14:23] Um, we've had clients in the past, uh, [1:14:26] we we work with corporate clients as [1:14:28] well. We had a a corporate client that [1:14:31] required us to scale extremely quickly, [1:14:33] very, uh, to meet their need. Uh, for it [1:14:36] was for a temporary project, but we were [1:14:38] able to to do that for them. Um, we, uh, [1:14:43] we're we're used to it. We know we have [1:14:46] great connections to find good people. [1:14:49] Um, so we would be able to scale [1:14:52] quickly. Uh, but we would not need to [1:14:54] scale right now. We're able to to [1:14:57] support Portola Valley completely with [1:14:59] the staff we have currently, but should [1:15:02] we need to scale. [1:15:04] >> It wouldn't be the first time. [1:15:06] >> And your onboarding process, um, I [1:15:09] assume the staff spoke and is [1:15:11] comfortable that there's a seamless [1:15:14] possibility there. [1:15:16] >> Yeah, this is that's my favorite part. [1:15:18] Um I it's really important to me to make [1:15:20] sure transitions are smooth. That's your [1:15:22] first [1:15:24] >> impression of us. [1:15:25] >> Yeah. [1:15:25] >> Um we work closely with your current [1:15:28] provider. Uh we have very well [1:15:31] documented. We I I already have the [1:15:33] agenda set up for you all and what we're [1:15:35] going to do to get the transition. So [1:15:37] that's not a problem. [1:15:38] >> Okay. Thank you. I only have a couple [1:15:40] more. Um, [1:15:43] I don't know how your support dovetales [1:15:46] with our need for system access in the [1:15:51] schoolhouse. Like I know we need a new [1:15:53] system here. [1:15:54] >> So there's actually two questions. One [1:15:56] is um, you know, can they be involved in [1:16:01] analyzing new equipment? What's the [1:16:03] intent? [1:16:03] >> Yeah, that was a specific topic that was [1:16:06] addressed in every interview with the [1:16:09] with each firm. [1:16:10] >> Okay. Thank you. And in terms of the [1:16:14] updates occurring outside of hours that [1:16:16] this staff is working, we have a lot of [1:16:18] evening meetings. And I'm I don't know [1:16:21] if what you do would potentially [1:16:23] interrupt our our town schedule, which [1:16:26] goes longer than most business days. [1:16:29] >> We would always work with the town to [1:16:31] schedule this. So, we would have [1:16:33] reoccurring maintenance that's agreed [1:16:34] upon. [1:16:35] >> Um, and it could be at any time. So, it [1:16:38] could be at 2 in the morning. And I'm [1:16:39] hoping these meetings wouldn't go that [1:16:41] long for you all so we can accommodate. [1:16:45] >> Yeah, we can outdo ourselves sometimes. [1:16:49] Um [laughter] [1:16:51] » um my last question is on the resolution [1:16:54] time for a small jurisdiction was 3.6 [1:16:57] hours versus the larger jurisdiction of [1:17:00] 1.33. [1:17:01] So what can you give an overview of why [1:17:04] that is? [1:17:05] >> It was it's massive tickets. the larger [1:17:08] jurisdiction has [1:17:11] way a was 1500 tickets, right? I think [1:17:14] it was uh verse 300. So, it's just when [1:17:18] you have more tickets, you can respond [1:17:20] things a little bit quicker. It's uh [1:17:22] average. I do want to stress that [1:17:25] the we do treat all of our clients the [1:17:28] same. Uh regardless of size, uh we hold [1:17:32] all like all of our we have a live [1:17:34] dashboard. Our team is constantly [1:17:37] tracking. We have multiple ticket [1:17:38] coordinators. Anything that's falling [1:17:40] out of our service level objective is [1:17:43] read and people will jump on it quickly. [1:17:46] And also as your account manager, [1:17:48] anything that Tony and the group were to [1:17:50] feel is lingering, they would come [1:17:52] directly to me and it would be fixed. [1:17:55] >> So I'm not saying follow the rationale, [1:17:57] but um but that's the end of my [1:17:59] questions. [1:18:01] >> Sure. [1:18:02] >> Okay. Thank you. Other questions for [1:18:04] Eaton or for Tony? [1:18:06] >> Yes, this is Rebecca, Council Member [1:18:08] Flynn. Um, in submitting your bid, um, [1:18:11] it would appear that you did have the [1:18:12] opportunity to do sort of a basic [1:18:14] evaluation of our current system. Is [1:18:16] that accurate? [1:18:18] >> I don't think we have access to your [1:18:20] systems yet. So, that would be one of [1:18:22] the first things we do when we on board [1:18:25] is would be a vulnerability scan. So, we [1:18:28] would be scanning your entire network, [1:18:30] um, collecting all the information we [1:18:33] need, identifying potential [1:18:35] vulnerabilities, mapping out what we're [1:18:37] going to tackle first. [1:18:39] >> Um, but I don't think we have access to [1:18:41] your systems just yet. Tony, please [1:18:43] correct me if there maybe something I [1:18:45] have missed. [1:18:46] >> We haven't coordinated with Separate [1:18:48] yet. [1:18:48] >> My question wasn't about actual access. [1:18:50] My question was more about the systems [1:18:52] we have in place. I think there was a [1:18:53] mention that we have three servers. Um [1:18:56] the Wi-Fi I don't know if the network [1:18:58] Wi-Fi was discussed at all um [1:19:00] >> was information that we [1:19:02] >> right so um based on that um do you have [1:19:06] any sense of how extensive changes might [1:19:09] be necessary to bring it up to you know [1:19:13] best practices we probably can't afford [1:19:15] but close to that or do you do you have [1:19:17] a sense yet of that or [1:19:19] >> no but we would we'll always work with [1:19:21] the town and be reasonable we have it's [1:19:23] we're it's pretty standard practice that [1:19:26] what we would do is we would iron out an [1:19:28] IT road map for you all and we'd [1:19:31] identify what like there's always [1:19:33] lowhanging fruit. So we would tackle [1:19:34] that quickly and that's probably things [1:19:36] that we can get done very very quickly [1:19:39] in the first couple of months. Anything [1:19:41] that's larger projects we would map out [1:19:43] and we work closely with town staff [1:19:46] whoever our point of contact would be [1:19:47] and I believe in this case it'll be [1:19:48] Elizabeth. I would work closely with her [1:19:51] and we would budget. So for we put [1:19:54] together I think typically our [1:19:56] government clients like a three-year [1:19:57] budget. So it would be year one. This is [1:19:59] what we're we're hoping to get approved [1:20:02] for the fiscal year then year two and [1:20:04] year three. And it would be it's really [1:20:06] balanced between anything we identify as [1:20:09] critical and then of course there's the [1:20:11] town needs like what the town is looking [1:20:13] to accomplish as well. [1:20:15] So just for clarification when you say [1:20:17] put together a budget this is over and [1:20:19] above the contract [1:20:22] is that correct in understanding or is [1:20:24] it also in some of it included in the [1:20:26] contract? [1:20:28] >> So anything that's add new additions. So [1:20:31] for example if we were to do a switch [1:20:33] refresh a server refresh where we need [1:20:36] to pull out old equipment and replace it [1:20:38] with new equipment that's considered [1:20:40] project work and outside of the regular [1:20:43] maintenance. And I think that tends to [1:20:45] be pretty standard. So our our contract [1:20:48] covers [1:20:50] the all the the maintenance, the [1:20:52] workstations, but if I would say the [1:20:54] best way to describe it is if there's [1:20:56] going to be any sort of new [1:20:59] um [1:21:01] any like a a new project. So like I said [1:21:03] with a switch refresh, a firewall re [1:21:06] refresh, a server refresh, those would [1:21:08] be considered special projects. [1:21:10] >> Yeah. And perhaps I could add a little a [1:21:12] little clarity there. So you for example [1:21:15] the the service contract uh would [1:21:18] include uh if a computer died replacing [1:21:21] the computer either a workstation or a [1:21:22] server that would be included. Uh the [1:21:24] hardware is obviously not included but [1:21:27] yeah uh you mentioned that if you wanted [1:21:29] a new AV system for the schoolhouse or [1:21:32] you are opening a new facility um that kind of work which you know again [1:21:38] we would consider net new uh we would [1:21:40] work with a town to develop a budget but [1:21:43] uh a lot most of the day-to-day [1:21:44] operational work is included in in in [1:21:47] this contract. We don't like to nickel [1:21:49] and dime our clients and I'm sure our [1:21:51] clients don't like it either. [1:21:54] >> So just to get clarification again on [1:21:56] for example the AV project for the [1:21:58] schoolhouse. Are you saying that the [1:22:01] scoping out of that project would be [1:22:03] included but the actual implementation [1:22:05] would then be a special project or would [1:22:07] that not be? [1:22:09] >> That's exactly right. So we will we will [1:22:12] present you with a plan a potential [1:22:16] budget etc. based on our conversations [1:22:19] with what you all are looking for and [1:22:21] then you know the actual procurement and [1:22:24] implementation [1:22:26] uh would be an additional project that [1:22:28] would be built separately and depending [1:22:30] on the work some things we would do [1:22:32] ourselves some things we would uh work [1:22:34] with a specialist just depending on the [1:22:36] nature of of what the work is [1:22:39] >> and then I had a couple areas of [1:22:40] confusion with respect to the contract [1:22:43] um several points it stated that the [1:22:46] standard contract was for 4 hours of [1:22:49] on-site [1:22:50] um support and you were recommending 8 [1:22:54] hours. Um what was the final decision [1:22:57] about that? Are we does the contract the not to exceed 175,000 [1:23:04] include four hours or eight hours? [1:23:08] » I I believe it we're we'll do what the [1:23:12] town thinks is best. So if the town is [1:23:14] used to and wants 4 hours, then we would [1:23:16] do 4 hours. I memory serves me. I [1:23:20] thought it was 2 days of 4 hours, but I [1:23:23] could be wrong. And that's why we might [1:23:25] have recommended eight. Typically, our [1:23:27] clients like at least one full day. Um I [1:23:31] can't remember if it was uh scope for [1:23:34] four or eight, but I believe it was four [1:23:37] because that's what the contract asked [1:23:39] for then. Yeah. [1:23:41] Um, [1:23:41] >> and so if we would need eight hours, we [1:23:43] would need to pay the hourly rate of [1:23:46] $195 per hour for the additional four [1:23:49] hours, which would be 780 per week, and [1:23:52] multiply that by 50, we're coming up [1:23:54] with $39,000. Is that correct? We would [1:23:56] need to add that to the um [1:24:00] to the annual bill of 87,900 [1:24:04] in order to get a full day [1:24:06] >> if the town would like to have eight [1:24:07] hours. Correct. But I believe Tony [1:24:10] currently are is the town happy with [1:24:12] their 4hour on-site. [1:24:16] >> That is what we currently work under. [1:24:18] But I think that's something that we're [1:24:21] going to look at as we start. And then [1:24:24] uh we'll make a determination if it's [1:24:27] working or not, if we need more hours or [1:24:28] less hours. [1:24:31] >> Okay. [1:24:31] >> Have we we don't have a definite answer [1:24:33] to that question right now. [1:24:36] Um, could I get [1:24:39] let's see clarification on the the not [1:24:43] to exceed cost for the first 21 months. [1:24:48] Um the annual price is 879 [1:24:52] but the and also the contract terms [1:24:55] because the contract says until July [1:24:58] June 30th 2028 [1:25:00] and then the Eaton contract says until [1:25:05] 20 [1:25:06] it says for three years. [1:25:08] >> That was their proposal not a contract. [1:25:11] >> Okay. So you you're so what we're [1:25:13] talking about today is for the 21 [1:25:16] >> 30th 2028 and we are using twice the [1:25:20] first two years [1:25:22] uh which it's tw it's paying for 24 [1:25:26] months but we're asking for spending [1:25:28] authority up to 175 [1:25:32] so that in case there are any additional [1:25:33] costs related to implementation or [1:25:35] anything that comes up post that we [1:25:38] still have the spending authority and we [1:25:39] don't have to come back to council for [1:25:40] another budget. [1:25:41] So in terms of things coming up you're [1:25:43] thinking [1:25:43] >> and this amount is actually in the [1:25:44] budget for the two years. [1:25:46] >> Okay. And so in terms of things that [1:25:47] you're thinking might bump the cost up [1:25:49] over their typical monthly would be some [1:25:52] of the scoping projects that were [1:25:54] critical that we needed to fix. Is that my understanding? [1:25:58] >> Whatever they identified during their [1:25:59] initial assessment. [1:26:00] >> Okay. Um, so I wanted to say that the [1:26:04] biggest [1:26:06] problem from the perspective of our [1:26:08] residents as well as kind of the [1:26:10] frustration that occurs for town council [1:26:12] members, committee members, [1:26:14] commissioners, is the schoolhouse AV [1:26:16] system that seems to fail on a regular [1:26:18] basis. Um, [1:26:21] and many of our meetings, as Judith [1:26:23] brought up, uh, happen at 7:00 at night, [1:26:26] and that's not covered in the standard [1:26:28] help desk hours that you're proposing, [1:26:30] which is 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. [1:26:34] Personally, [1:26:36] so what would happen in the situation [1:26:38] where the system goes down at our [1:26:40] meeting at 7:00, [1:26:42] but how how would Eaton handle that? [1:26:45] What would be [1:26:46] >> that would be Yeah, that's a priority [1:26:47] one. So you would be getting support. Uh [1:26:50] typically we can resolve most of these [1:26:52] things remotely. Um I do remember from [1:26:56] our conversations with Tony and [1:26:57] Elizabeth that the town also has an AV [1:27:00] vendor. So we would work very closely [1:27:02] with them as well. Um but ideally what [1:27:06] we can identify is ways to make that [1:27:09] system stable, work with the vendor, the [1:27:11] AV vendor as well to make that system [1:27:13] more reliable, more stable. But should [1:27:16] you have an issue during a meeting, you [1:27:18] will get support. That would be [1:27:20] considered a priority one issue and we [1:27:22] have some people available to assist and [1:27:24] then I would make sure that Tony [1:27:26] Elizabeth have my direct line as well. I [1:27:29] think they both already do and I can [1:27:31] make sure that you would get support [1:27:33] that we all of our all of our government [1:27:35] clients have these special meetings that [1:27:37] are always after hours. So, it's nothing [1:27:39] new. [1:27:41] >> Yeah. And another pardon me. Excuse me. [1:27:43] Go ahead. [1:27:43] >> Go ahead. Go ahead. Uh I was going to [1:27:45] say another thing that we can do and and [1:27:46] what we what we would typically do is [1:27:49] once a new AV system has been [1:27:52] implemented uh we would have a person on [1:27:56] site during the first meeting or two to [1:27:59] ensure any little hiccups get ironed out [1:28:01] immediately uh unless the AV vendor uh [1:28:04] depending on the nature of of the [1:28:06] project uh is there to do that. But [1:28:08] yeah, we do have some some of our [1:28:10] clients do request to have an on-site [1:28:12] presence during the meetings. Uh, I I [1:28:15] wouldn't jump to that as a as a [1:28:18] full-time forever option because it can [1:28:20] get expensive, but I think that it [1:28:23] certainly is something, you know, to [1:28:25] keep in mind that during a transition [1:28:27] period or or for example, if you're [1:28:28] having a particularly special meeting [1:28:31] and you're expecting, you know, hundreds [1:28:32] or thousands of people to show up, uh, [1:28:35] then then for an event like that, it [1:28:37] might be appropriate to have an IT [1:28:38] person, you know, physically on site. [1:28:40] But those are the details we can work [1:28:42] out with y'all. And it's not possible [1:28:45] for us to have an 8 am to 8:00 pm help [1:28:47] desk instead of a 6 am to 6 pm. [1:28:51] >> We can we can work with Tony and see if [1:28:53] that's something we can we can put [1:28:55] together. Yeah. So the Gabriel request [1:28:57] is 8 to 8 instead of 6 to 6. [1:29:00] >> Yeah. And I and I could confirm that you [1:29:03] will get that regardless. Um if so if [1:29:06] you need assistance, we would make that [1:29:08] work. That's not a problem. But I can [1:29:10] make a note and add it to our agenda. [1:29:15] Um [1:29:17] I I have a couple questions for staff. [1:29:21] Um the contract um has refers to the [1:29:26] services to the town as described in [1:29:28] more details in exhibit A. Exhibit A is [1:29:32] empty. So maybe there's some [1:29:34] >> exhibit A was their proposal [1:29:36] >> is their proposal. But yet their [1:29:38] proposal is not 100% of what we're is [1:29:41] the only change from the proposal is the [1:29:42] time [1:29:45] the duration [1:29:46] >> because their proposal says three years [1:29:48] and we're doing it for 21 months [1:29:50] >> services are still identified. [1:29:52] >> Okay. [1:29:53] >> And we're comfortable with with the the [1:29:55] distinction of the contract the contract [1:29:58] terms being the controlling reference [1:30:00] for the uh time frame of the contract [1:30:03] even though we proposed just a straight [1:30:04] three years. [1:30:05] that that doesn't present any problems [1:30:07] to us. [1:30:09] >> And could our town attorney and our town [1:30:10] manager give me a perspective on our [1:30:12] requirements to accept the lowest bid or [1:30:14] are we able to accept a middle of the [1:30:17] road bid [1:30:19] for professional services? You have um [1:30:22] authority to accept uh a middle-of the [1:30:25] road bid. Uh it's it's public works [1:30:27] projects where there's a legal [1:30:29] obligation to accept the low bid. [1:30:30] >> Okay. Thank you. And could you also [1:30:32] clarify Tony what the overlap will be [1:30:34] between our departing uh service [1:30:37] provider and Eaton? [1:30:39] >> So the schedule is uh September and then [1:30:42] have Eaton in in place by October 1st. [1:30:46] >> So you're planning to have them come in [1:30:49] a month ahead of time? [1:30:50] >> Yes, they'll be overlapping with Stford. [1:30:54] >> Okay. And do we have a cost for what [1:30:55] that would be? if we're complete if they [1:30:58] complete the implementation before the [1:31:01] um October 1st and I believe that's [1:31:04] included. [1:31:06] >> Not what I read. My read is if you [1:31:08] wanted to have them come in two weeks [1:31:10] before the implementation before the [1:31:11] start date that there was an additional [1:31:13] charge for that. But maybe I misread [1:31:15] that. [1:31:17] Anybody else see that [1:31:22] implementation is included in [1:31:26] I I want to make this clear. So, there's [1:31:29] a monthly cost. If we start September, [1:31:33] that would just be your regular monthly [1:31:35] cost and onboarding would be included in [1:31:37] that. Um, [1:31:40] >> so that's about 7,000 I think something [1:31:42] like that, [1:31:42] >> right? We've asked for [1:31:45] >> 79. No. [1:31:46] >> Yeah. But that's still going to be less [1:31:47] than what we're asking for. [1:31:51] >> What we're asking for. So we're the the [1:31:54] amount of the contract is 24 months the [1:31:57] value of the contract. [1:31:58] >> Oh, I see what you're saying. Okay. So [1:32:00] you're actually anticipating the [1:32:01] contract starts September 1st then it [1:32:03] sounds [1:32:03] >> be if there there'll be some initial [1:32:05] cost that we will have to consider. Yes. [1:32:07] That's why we're asking for an [1:32:08] additional [1:32:09] >> So why don't we write the contract [1:32:10] starting September 1st? [1:32:17] » I I'm I'm confused. [1:32:21] said, "Rebecca, can you wrap up?" Get [1:32:23] the other council members. [laughter] [1:32:27] >> Okay. I guess my questions are not [1:32:29] useful. [1:32:31] >> No, I think they're useful. I don't [1:32:32] think we're going to get answers to all [1:32:33] of them on the fly from the DAS. [1:32:35] >> I think Darcy was about to answer [1:32:37] Rebecca's question. Actually, [1:32:43] » we normally start the contract when it's [1:32:46] approved and then we have an [1:32:48] implementation date and that's when the [1:32:50] work starts. [1:32:56] So, is that September 1st then? [1:33:01] Let me pull it up and check. But [1:33:04] I think it would be helpful if if [1:33:06] there's any other questions. [1:33:08] Let us know. We'll research that one. [1:33:11] >> Yeah. [1:33:13] Did you have any other questions or can [1:33:14] I move on to other council and they can [1:33:16] re research it while we're discussing [1:33:18] other things? [1:33:19] >> Well, my only other question is that AI [1:33:21] is on everybody's mind and um [1:33:26] we're we're already late to the ball [1:33:28] game and so [1:33:30] some point we're going to need to have [1:33:32] our new IT contractor consider that. So, [1:33:36] I'm just curious where that fits in. [1:33:39] >> Yeah, that. So, I would probably start [1:33:41] with um we would want to put together a [1:33:44] policy. So, it's always important to [1:33:46] start with a a policy around AI. How the [1:33:50] town foresees utilizing AI. Uh AI is [1:33:53] really helpful, but it's not needed for [1:33:55] everything. Um we would start there. uh [1:33:59] identify need and then figure out what [1:34:03] best suit what AI can best fits in for [1:34:07] the town. Um and then if there's tools [1:34:10] that the town would like to utilize, we [1:34:13] would highly recommend having a [1:34:15] townowned [1:34:17] AI tool everyone is [1:34:20] for. So I would I would start with a [1:34:23] policy identify need for AI and then we [1:34:26] could go from there. But that's not a [1:34:27] problem. The AI is top of everyone's [1:34:29] mind. [1:34:33] » Yeah. [1:34:35] >> And we can amend the date on the [1:34:36] contract to September 1st. [1:34:39] >> What's that? [1:34:40] >> We can we can amend the date on the [1:34:42] contract to September 1st. [1:34:46] » All right. Other questions for Tony or [1:34:48] Eaton? [1:34:50] >> Ellen, [1:34:50] >> I have a question. Um, can you speak [1:34:54] Eaton? This is more for Eaton. Um [1:34:57] obviously you've you're set up to do [1:35:00] cyber security but to protect against [1:35:03] ransomware attacks. [1:35:05] >> Yes. [1:35:09] » Was that the question? [1:35:11] >> Yes. [1:35:11] Absolutely. [1:35:13] >> Right. Because ransomware attacks have [1:35:16] taken out quite a few public agencies. [1:35:18] >> Yes. Um yes. So we have several tool [1:35:22] sets. Um, and I would definitely what we [1:35:25] could do is Tony I can uh connect with [1:35:27] our technical team and actually write [1:35:29] something up that we can present to [1:35:31] council or you can share with council [1:35:32] after uh that's more detailed. But [1:35:36] absolutely we have [1:35:38] several tools that are monitoring your [1:35:41] network, monitoring your emails, uh [1:35:44] monitoring your servers. Uh the tools [1:35:47] that they are coming out with and that [1:35:48] we would be deploying are quite [1:35:50] advanced. Um they do have the ability to [1:35:54] uh now isolate [1:35:56] servers if they start doing weird stuff, [1:35:58] mailboxes if they start doing weird [1:36:00] stuff. Um we we have our whole tool set [1:36:05] is designed to fight [1:36:08] cyber security threats. Um if the the um [1:36:12] council's interested, I can get more [1:36:14] details for you all on a document. [1:36:17] >> And if I could, I'd just like to add, [1:36:19] you know, two points to that. Uh so [1:36:21] yeah, we we agree ransomware uh is on [1:36:24] the rise and they're getting better and [1:36:26] better at [snorts] it. Uh we it's it's a [1:36:28] multi-layered approach we take with the [1:36:30] most advanced tools that are available [1:36:33] uh to to prevent it. Uh that includes uh [1:36:36] training for the individuals because [1:36:38] unfortunately uh a person clicking on a [1:36:41] link is one of the most common ways that [1:36:44] bad things can start to happen. But we [1:36:47] also try to layer in uh tools into the [1:36:50] infrastructure so even if a link is you [1:36:52] know by accident clicked it doesn't run [1:36:54] rampant through the through the entire [1:36:56] environment. And another cornerstone of protection is your backups. So we we [1:37:04] we're not familiar what the current [1:37:06] backup uh system is with with with the [1:37:09] town, but if you have reliable backups [1:37:12] that are encrypted and you know, one of [1:37:15] the things that we do uh as part of our [1:37:17] normal services is we you validate [1:37:20] backups and do test restores on on a [1:37:22] regular schedule to ensure that they're [1:37:24] good. uh in the very worst case if if [1:37:28] ransomware does get in uh say someone [1:37:31] you know plugs an infected thumb drive [1:37:33] into a computer or something uh if you [1:37:36] if the data is is backed up and [1:37:38] encrypted in backup then we just wipe [1:37:41] the computers restore the the data and [1:37:44] get rolling again. And you know, it's a [1:37:46] very annoying, you know, couple of days, [1:37:47] but it's not uh it's not disastrous and and you're certainly not um [1:37:54] going to you're not going to be out of [1:37:55] business, so to speak. Uh so I think [1:37:58] again that that it's it's a key focus of [1:38:00] ours. Cyber security is a key focus of [1:38:02] ours uh to do everything that we can to [1:38:05] ensure that you have a good environment [1:38:07] that's as secure as possible and [1:38:09] resistant to as ransomware as possible. [1:38:12] Uh I can't say that that it's impossible [1:38:14] to avoid it. Um gi given how [1:38:18] sophisticated they are. I think there [1:38:19] was one example of someone got infected [1:38:21] by a uh a fish tank that was on the [1:38:24] internet. They hacked into a fish tank [1:38:26] and hopped over and um another was [1:38:29] socially engineered um [1:38:32] attack uh where they try they pretended [1:38:35] to be someone else. So, you know, for [1:38:37] example, we have uh procedures and [1:38:39] policies in place to identify people [1:38:42] calling support so we don't start [1:38:43] changing passwords for the bad guys, [1:38:45] things like that. But yeah, it it it's a difficult challenge and we [1:38:49] recognize it. But we can do everything [1:38:51] reasonable to ensure you aren't uh [1:38:54] ransomware or infected. And then if if [1:38:58] should something bad happen that you can [1:38:59] recover very quickly and it's not a [1:39:01] devastating event. [1:39:04] >> Thank you so much. You bet. Other [1:39:07] questions? [1:39:09] Um then I just have a couple. Um the [1:39:11] first one is how familiar are you guys [1:39:13] with open gov [1:39:15] >> what? [1:39:15] >> I'm sorry. [1:39:16] >> Open gov. [1:39:20] >> uh [1:39:20] >> software. [1:39:22] >> Yeah, pretty familiar with most [1:39:24] government uh we we do a lot of work [1:39:27] with what Tyler Technologies, Central [1:39:29] Square Tracket, Open Gov. um [1:39:34] pretty familiar with most of them. Is is [1:39:36] open gov a pain point for the town? [1:39:40] >> Well, we're in the process of moving [1:39:43] over to it. So, in that sense, it's a [1:39:46] >> Okay. [laughter] Well, yeah, [1:39:47] transitions. [1:39:49] >> Tyler was the pain point. [1:39:51] >> There we go. Okay. Well, yeah, happy to [1:39:53] assist. We We're very familiar with with [1:39:57] >> Okay. And then my other question [1:40:00] >> my other question I mean one of the [1:40:01] things I was pushing for is [1:40:04] >> you know we need a part-time CE CTO um [1:40:07] and so can you give me a sense for [1:40:09] within your organization I mean how does [1:40:12] that service get delivered like how how [1:40:14] do we see the sort of you know part-time [1:40:17] CTO [1:40:19] >> uh our CTO is heavily involved [1:40:21] especially when it comes to projects and [1:40:25] uh cyber security he uh He when we get [1:40:29] you all on boarded, one of the first [1:40:31] things we'll do is the vulnerability [1:40:32] scan and that is reviewed by the CTO. He [1:40:36] will assist uh me the project manager [1:40:39] and put together a road map, identify [1:40:42] anything that needs to be corrected [1:40:44] immediately. Um you can uh the town will [1:40:48] have direct access to the CTO as well [1:40:51] via email or cell phone. Um [1:40:54] >> Gabrielle, [1:40:55] >> yeah, please. Uh if if I may. So uh [1:40:58] everything Gabrielle said said is [1:41:00] correct. You know he he works very [1:41:02] closely with our clients. Uh we also uh [1:41:05] have um regularly occurring meetings. I [1:41:09] think it's typically every two weeks and [1:41:11] the CTO can attend those uh as needed as [1:41:14] requested. uh we also do uh quarterly [1:41:17] business reviews and by default the CTO [1:41:20] is there because that's when we focus on [1:41:23] things that happened in the past and [1:41:25] things we want to focus on in the future [1:41:27] and having that high level input is is [1:41:29] important but yeah the CTO reviews all [1:41:32] of the you know the the big documents [1:41:36] >> okay and I think what I heard is that [1:41:38] road maps the projects [1:41:40] >> right and and so quarterly it sounds [1:41:42] like we got opportunity to do sort of [1:41:45] strategic planning and then along the [1:41:48] way the CTO is looking at more of the [1:41:52] immediate needs. [1:41:54] >> Exactly. That and I can coordinate [1:41:57] >> and if you Yeah. Yeah. I was going to [1:41:58] say if you if you want to talk to him [1:42:00] next Wednesday, just let us know and [1:42:01] we'll schedule a meeting. It's it's you [1:42:03] know we don't lock them away in a glass [1:42:04] case or anything. [1:42:06] >> Yeah. Perfect. Okay. Um that's it for [1:42:08] me. [1:42:09] >> Yeah. Okay. [1:42:10] >> So, can I open up to public comment or [1:42:12] do you have some Oh. [1:42:14] I we're not we haven't reached our [1:42:17] regular comments yet. [1:42:18] >> We haven't we haven't gone to public [1:42:20] comment yet. So, we're just these are [1:42:22] just questions for Tony and E. [1:42:23] >> Okay. Um I have a very simple question [1:42:26] which is I'm not aware of who the [1:42:27] previous person was. [1:42:28] >> Steepford. [1:42:30] >> Okay. That's that's what I was beginning [1:42:32] to assert. uh and the other thing that I [1:42:35] haven't seen in this in anywhere is the [1:42:40] uh user friendly aspect and and where I [1:42:44] mean what I see is the struggling [1:42:46] committees trying to make the system [1:42:48] work in the schoolhouse and not working [1:42:51] and not being able to get the meetings [1:42:52] done and so forth and and to Rebecca's [1:42:56] po point who is this AV vendor and is [1:43:00] that another whole account And is this [1:43:03] going to solve any of those any of the [1:43:05] real problems that we see in functioning [1:43:07] as a as a basically a committee run [1:43:10] town? [1:43:10] >> Um the this Crestor system I believe [1:43:14] it's KOD that does that does support and [1:43:19] so um yeah they'll be working with [1:43:23] Kota to make sure that we are connected. [1:43:26] >> Yeah. [1:43:27] >> In that. [1:43:28] >> Okay. [1:43:28] >> And Right. Well, yeah. I think the [1:43:30] larger issue here is what this is what I [1:43:32] was asking about the CTO is we should [1:43:33] have a strategic discussion about our ad [1:43:36] because the stuff we have is not in my [1:43:39] opinion the right solution. [1:43:41] >> The system we have it's packed [1:43:43] >> it's not comprehensive [1:43:44] >> and this is not going to fix it. I take [1:43:46] it [1:43:47] >> not immediately. We'll scope it out and [1:43:50] then [1:43:50] >> but ultimately it's going to come down [1:43:52] to funding [1:43:54] >> and this is going to be a capital this [1:43:57] is going to be CIP projects [1:44:00] >> that we're going to have to address and [1:44:03] it's be going to be outside the scope of [1:44:05] the contract. [1:44:07] >> All right. So I'm not after these guys [1:44:09] are done with their hundreds of [1:44:10] thousands of dollars I'm not going to be [1:44:11] able to go over to that computer and [1:44:13] start the meeting. I take it. Okay. Got [1:44:16] it. But we do have significant [1:44:19] experience working with towns and [1:44:20] corporate a corporate organizations on [1:44:23] AV implementations. So we can certainly [1:44:26] you know put something together. We can [1:44:28] work your existing vendor partners if [1:44:30] that's what's desired. So it we can fix [1:44:33] it. Uh we just don't know what the what [1:44:36] that looks like yet. [1:44:38] >> We would [1:44:38] >> yeah we just we need to have a [1:44:39] discussion. So [1:44:41] >> okay so I' I'd like to open it for [1:44:43] public comment. Are there any public [1:44:45] comment in the room? Dad, please come to [1:44:48] the microphone. [1:44:49] >> Yay. [1:44:51] You you're hanging out a long time for [1:44:52] this. Thank you. [1:44:54] >> We we just came to listen. Uh but now I [1:44:56] do have a comment. Um just to introduce [1:44:58] myself, my name is Aaron Eert. I grew up [1:45:00] in Pole Valley. My partner and I just [1:45:02] relocated back here. So excited to be [1:45:04] here and thank you guys for everything [1:45:05] you're doing to make our town better. [1:45:07] Um, [1:45:10] my first question was about AI and uh, [1:45:12] Rebecca or sorry, Council Member Flynn, [1:45:15] you asked about AI uh, and how we're [1:45:17] using it. I'm curious um, to Eton, how [1:45:21] you guys are using AI and in what ways [1:45:24] might some of our town's data be exposed [1:45:28] um, through the AI that you're using? [1:45:32] Should I list all my questions or [1:45:35] >> Yeah, because generally you're up there [1:45:36] to make comments, not questions, but [1:45:38] Okay. But but if the council feels like [1:45:40] they're good questions, then we'll tend [1:45:41] to [1:45:41] >> Okay, I'll make them to you guys. [1:45:42] >> So, yeah. So, go ahead. [1:45:44] >> Yeah. So, um basically every time a um [1:45:47] company uses an AI vendor, they are [1:45:51] third party to this company, Eton, and [1:45:54] um any data that they take of ours is [1:45:57] now going to that AI vendor. So for [1:45:59] example, if you're using Open AI and [1:46:01] ChatGBT to like process something about [1:46:04] our town, that data is now exposed to [1:46:07] chat GBT and it's important that their [1:46:09] instance of ChatGBT is not being trained [1:46:11] on our data and that that data remains [1:46:14] private to our town so that they don't [1:46:16] have that information about us. So [1:46:18] anytime we have any vendor who's [1:46:20] interacting with our data, I would say [1:46:21] that's extremely important. Um, one [1:46:24] other thing I wanted to uh mention is [1:46:26] you guys were talking about new AI or [1:46:29] new AV equipment. Um, just how MSPs [1:46:32] work, managed service providers. Anytime [1:46:34] they sell us new equipment, they're [1:46:35] making money on that equipment versus us [1:46:37] buying it. And that just raised the [1:46:39] question in my head around, you know, we [1:46:42] have a incredibly intelligent town here, [1:46:44] especially where we're based. Um, and [1:46:46] maybe there it's worth having like a [1:46:48] call to volunteers of people who work in [1:46:50] this space. I specifically work in for [1:46:53] an IT company um in the governance risk [1:46:56] and compliance space. So I have a lot of [1:46:57] knowledge in this space. I'm not [1:46:58] necessarily the person to find equipment [1:47:00] but I think there's a lot of intelligent [1:47:02] people here. So I'd be curious to uh [1:47:04] find the best you know deal we could for [1:47:06] the town and the best solution. [1:47:09] Um and then the last uh question I just [1:47:12] want to ask about just because I'm [1:47:14] knowledgeable in the space uh if you [1:47:16] guys feel it's worth asking is they [1:47:18] mentioned SOCK 2 type 2 compliance [1:47:20] certification which is a really great [1:47:22] certification to have and I was curious [1:47:24] just to hear who their auditor was for [1:47:26] that because I have a lot of knowledge [1:47:27] in the space um and if they plan to [1:47:30] pursue any other framework [1:47:31] certifications those types of [1:47:33] certifications help protect our data and [1:47:35] ensure that the way that they're [1:47:36] operating as a company is going to be [1:47:38] safer. for you know every everything [1:47:39] we're giving them access to. Thank you. [1:47:42] >> Great. Thank you. Um so what I would [1:47:44] recommend is why don't so [1:47:46] >> just you're hired [1:47:48] >> Mary. [1:47:51] So what I was going to say is if you are [1:47:54] interested please do give your contact [1:47:56] information to the town manager. Um and [1:47:58] I'm sure we'd love to take advantage of [1:48:00] that. Um so with some of those questions [1:48:03] um why don't we start with the sort of [1:48:04] AI and the sort of the protection of the [1:48:07] data. [1:48:09] >> Yeah. [1:48:10] >> And I I have a very simple answer. Sorry [1:48:12] Gabriel. Very simple answer. Uh we we [1:48:15] don't use public AI for we don't expose [1:48:18] any of our clients uh information to [1:48:20] public AI. We have our own internal AI [1:48:23] systems. [1:48:24] >> So I agree with him. it would be [1:48:26] inappropriate to to do that and [1:48:28] something to be concerned about, but we [1:48:30] don't we don't use AI that way. [1:48:34] >> Okay. And and then the other one that I [1:48:36] would say generally was um sort of sock [1:48:39] 2 and other certifications. [1:48:43] » Right now we have sock right now we have [1:48:45] SOCK 2. Uh I would have to talk with our [1:48:48] um CTO regarding additional [1:48:51] certifications, but right now we have [1:48:53] Sock 2. Uh, and then I could [1:48:55] >> And do you know who the audit [1:48:57] >> Do you know who the auditor was? That was kind of the question around [1:49:00] sock too. [1:49:00] >> That one I would need to ask. So I can [1:49:02] get back to you on that one. [1:49:04] >> Okay, great. And I'm sorry, John, I [1:49:07] interrupted you. [1:49:08] >> Oh, no worries. I was going to say we're [1:49:09] also CJS compliant, which is a little [1:49:11] bit of a different uh security, but uh [1:49:14] that's very important in the law [1:49:15] enforcement world. So when we work with [1:49:18] uh police departments and similar uh [1:49:20] like and airports uh the sieges is very [1:49:23] important. [1:49:25] >> Okay, great. [1:49:26] >> I I did want to address the selling of [1:49:29] equipment. So all of our government [1:49:31] clients have a purchasing policy. So [1:49:33] what that would drive is that [1:49:38] when we provide a quote, it either needs [1:49:41] to have a cooperative agreement. So that [1:49:43] means that it's already been vetted cuz [1:49:45] we cited a cooperative agreement. So it [1:49:48] is the best pricing. We get special [1:49:51] pricing for the town. If we cannot get [1:49:54] the town special pricing, we would we [1:49:56] would tell them and that they would need [1:49:57] to look elsewhere. We would help them [1:49:58] with that. Um also sometimes purchasing [1:50:01] policies will require the town to [1:50:03] collect uh three quotes. Um, so that way [1:50:07] it's um, that's all government agencies [1:50:12] have a purchasing policy. So it's not a gotcha. You have to get equipment from [1:50:18] us. Not everyone. Yeah. Sometimes we [1:50:21] have the best quote, sometimes we don't. [1:50:23] So it's really that's just how it goes. [1:50:26] >> And I did want to uh chime in with the [1:50:29] auditors. So we've worked with Vanta and [1:50:31] Coupe most recently. Coupe is K O P. [1:50:35] Okay, I'm I'm getting thumbs up in the [1:50:37] room. So, great. Thank you. [1:50:40] Okay, let me move to the next public [1:50:41] comment. So, I'll go online. So, David [1:50:43] Cardinal, you're up. [1:50:46] >> Hi. Thanks. Yeah, first of all, this is [1:50:48] a a great um [1:50:52] presentation. And I think as far as [1:50:54] keeping the trains running on time, this [1:50:56] will be a big upgrade from our current [1:50:58] vendor who doesn't even know the train [1:51:01] schedule from what I can tell. Um, my [1:51:05] only comments relate to being realistic [1:51:08] about what this is going to solve and [1:51:12] not solve. Um, a lot of our trains don't [1:51:15] have tracks. So, for example, whenever [1:51:18] the power goes out, which it does here a [1:51:20] lot, unlike Hillsboro or Los Alto Hills [1:51:23] even, um, or our cellular connection is [1:51:26] bad, our meetings frankly go in the [1:51:29] toilet. So, a network architect who can [1:51:33] make Starlink backup work, failover [1:51:36] work, uh, all that stuff I think is [1:51:38] really important. And if Eaton can do [1:51:41] that, great. I didn't hear that tonight, [1:51:43] but we didn't ask them that. Second, on [1:51:45] the AV, um, I've done a lot of AV [1:51:49] systems and I get the volunteer buying [1:51:52] the equipment, but then you don't want [1:51:53] to be the person stuck maintaining it. [1:51:56] So, I'm okay with buying it [1:51:58] professionally because I don't want to [1:52:00] be the guy who has to go there. But I do [1:52:03] think it's important. This support thing [1:52:05] is kind of a red herring. I mean, if the [1:52:07] meeting doesn't start at 7 or at least [1:52:10] by 710, it might as well not start. So, [1:52:13] at some level, what I'd like to see [1:52:16] between our IT vendor and our AV vendor [1:52:19] is somebody's on the hook that at 6:45 [1:52:23] p.m. we have 99% availability in the [1:52:27] schoolhouse. And if they can't guarantee [1:52:30] that, then we aren't doing the right [1:52:32] thing because that's really what we [1:52:34] need. Um [1:52:36] I think on some of that Muhammad their [1:52:40] CTO is really good on cyber security [1:52:42] reading his resume he's not a doesn't [1:52:45] seem to be a super deep network [1:52:47] architect um which is fine u but I think [1:52:51] this is more a trains run on time thing [1:52:53] and then AI um I think it's interesting [1:52:58] I think we have a lot of people here in [1:53:01] town I mean I I do it 12 hours a Okay. [1:53:05] Um who can kind of help with what we [1:53:07] might benefit from. Um and a lot of us [1:53:10] like I do early childhood research at [1:53:12] Stanford so we know a lot about [1:53:14] protecting information. So in that sense [1:53:16] we do have a lot of resources that I [1:53:18] think we can help out with. But all in [1:53:20] all I would I would love to see us move [1:53:22] off of the current completely broken [1:53:26] train system. So thanks. [1:53:29] >> Thank you Dave. Christie you're up. [1:53:35] Thank you. I just wanted to say that I [1:53:39] think it's extremely important that the [1:53:41] person's onsite [1:53:43] to help with the schoolhouse. I've gone [1:53:46] to lots of meetings that start late and [1:53:49] I don't know how it could be done from a [1:53:51] distance and that's a concern. Um, my [1:53:55] second question, that's a comment and [1:53:59] then a question would be what cities in [1:54:02] San Mo County have you worked with that [1:54:05] have open gov? [1:54:10] And what cities are those? [1:54:15] » Okay, thank you Christie. [1:54:18] >> So, Gabriel, maybe you can get back to [1:54:20] us on that. That would be a fine thing [1:54:22] just to, you know, get back to Tony. So, [1:54:25] okay, I don't see any hands in the [1:54:27] schoolhouse and I don't see hands up [1:54:29] online. So, I'm going to close public [1:54:31] comment, bring it back to the council. [1:54:34] Um, so the we can have some discussion, [1:54:37] but the main issue here is to adopt a [1:54:39] resolution authorizing the professional [1:54:42] services agreement and the funding for [1:54:44] it. So, is there any additional [1:54:46] discussion or do I have a motion? [1:54:50] So, I do want to raise the termination [1:54:53] timing. Um, like if somebody walked away [1:54:56] from a contract with us, how long would [1:55:00] the time to get someone else in place [1:55:03] be? Because we've obviously got to do an [1:55:04] RFP. So, curious about what the length [1:55:08] of time we ought to focus on is. [1:55:14] » Um, looking at me, this is I say this is [1:55:16] a business term. Um but I would um I 30 [1:55:21] days is standard but of course this is [1:55:23] not a standard situation where you know [1:55:24] we have we would have to do um an RFP in [1:55:27] this process is probably taken three [1:55:28] months. Um [1:55:32] >> yes. [1:55:33] >> So um I guess I would suggest with you [1:55:36] know depending on what um our our town [1:55:39] manager is now manager think that uh we [1:55:41] actually might want to put 90 days in [1:55:43] that um in that section of the contract [1:55:45] if it's agreeable uh with um uh [1:55:51] with Eaton. Um I think that would make [1:55:53] more sense in terms of this contract. [1:55:56] >> Yeah. And for Eaton's benefit, the [1:55:57] concern is obviously we're a small [1:55:59] jurisdiction, extremely lean staff, and [1:56:03] you know, the the RFP process, we really [1:56:07] can't have a situation where we don't [1:56:09] have an IT provider, and I'm kind of not [1:56:13] used to seeing in business an ability to [1:56:16] walk away, you know, that quickly. So, [1:56:20] would that be something you would [1:56:22] consider? Um, you don't have to answer [1:56:24] now, but that's what I'm gonna [1:56:27] recommend. [1:56:29] >> I I can answer now. We don't have any [1:56:30] problem with with a longer a long period [1:56:33] if the town prefers 90 days. [1:56:36] >> Yeah. And then I heard during our [1:56:38] discussions, we would start the contract [1:56:40] on September one for purposes of a [1:56:42] motion. Craig, I just want to make sure [1:56:44] we know what we're [1:56:46] >> Yeah. [1:56:47] Y [1:56:48] >> um [1:56:50] >> any other [1:56:52] >> I just wanted to clarify the contract I [1:56:53] believe said that the that 20 um users [1:56:58] would be supported and I'm just curious [1:57:00] who those 20 users are and if they do [1:57:03] include the five of us here. [1:57:07] » We are very used to supporting council [1:57:10] members and commissioners. Uh typically [1:57:13] the a staff member reaches out on your [1:57:15] behalf and we then reach out to you. [1:57:18] You're more than h happy to reach out to [1:57:20] me directly and I can get you someone [1:57:22] connected. We can coordinate either [1:57:24] on-site support for you or remote [1:57:26] support, but commissioners and council [1:57:28] members we work with on a daily basis. [1:57:32] >> But Gabrielle, I think the point was we [1:57:34] just need to work with Tony and sure [1:57:35] they're included in whatever that [1:57:37] >> number. Yeah. [1:57:38] >> Yeah. So yeah, if the number Antony, I [1:57:41] don't know the answer, but we we can [1:57:43] work with you to adjust it's appropriate [1:57:45] to include any any council or members or [1:57:47] anyone else that wishes to be included [1:57:49] if if that's what the decision is. [1:57:52] >> Yeah, we'll work that out. [1:57:53] >> Yep. [1:57:54] >> Great. [1:57:57] >> Okay. [1:57:57] >> My only comment is thank you for putting [1:57:59] all this together to the staff. [1:58:01] >> Um these are good options. Thank you. [1:58:05] >> Yeah, I mean that's my comment. This has [1:58:07] been a long time coming. So, you know, [1:58:09] thank thank you for finally getting it, [1:58:11] you know, kind of over the goal line, so [1:58:12] to speak. All right, any more [1:58:14] discussion? Can I have a motion? [1:58:16] >> Motion to approve uh the contract with [1:58:19] Eaton uh with the two changes of [1:58:23] September 1 start date and 90 days [1:58:26] termination notice for Eaton. Do [1:58:28] >> I have a second? [1:58:30] >> Second. [1:58:31] >> Okay, I have a motion and a second. All [1:58:32] in favor say I. [1:58:33] >> I. [1:58:35] >> All right. Passes unanimously. Thank you [1:58:37] very much. Um, nice to meet you guys um, [1:58:39] virtually online. Um, and we look [1:58:41] forward to seeing some of you in person. [1:58:43] >> Thank you as well. Thank you very much. [1:58:45] Have a good evening everybody. [1:58:50] » Okay, so that closes out the regular [1:58:52] agenda. Now we move to number eight, [1:58:55] subcommittee [1:58:56] leazison and regional agency reports. [1:58:59] Are there any oral reports or just [1:59:01] what's the [1:59:02] >> um, I have a couple. Um, [1:59:06] I attended and I think I saw Judith in [1:59:08] the background too. The the Stanford [1:59:10] human- centered AI little conference [1:59:13] that they had and um they the group [1:59:16] issued a 400page [1:59:19] document where they analyzed all the [1:59:21] changes in AI for the past year and what [1:59:24] impacts they might have on a variety of [1:59:26] different situations including um [1:59:28] employment, economy, etc., etc. So, um, [1:59:33] if people are interested, we can send [1:59:35] the link around to that report. And, and [1:59:37] also, I was able to make several [1:59:39] contacts with, um, different [1:59:41] municipalities and learned that Los [1:59:42] Altos Hills has taken has, um, signed up [1:59:45] for an AI vendor to help them. Um, and [1:59:49] there's a couple others. Um San Jose has [1:59:52] a a gov AI consortium [1:59:56] um that we are invited to um participate [1:59:58] with as well where it's sort of an [2:00:00] analysis of you know working through the [2:00:02] issues of AI and government. There's a [2:00:04] bunch of great contacts. And the second [2:00:06] thing I wanted to talk about was um [2:00:08] council member Hasco's report on a bag. [2:00:12] And um it seems to me that there is some [2:00:16] next steps for the council to work on in [2:00:19] terms of whether it's working with [2:00:21] Sonteo County to create a larger sub [2:00:24] group to deal with the the Arena 7 or [2:00:29] have a relationship with some other [2:00:30] jurisdictions for example to share our [2:00:33] regional housing needs. So, I'm just [2:00:34] wondering what the next step is in terms [2:00:37] of, you know, what you view and what the [2:00:39] staff views in terms of what we should [2:00:41] be doing about addressing um Arena 7, [2:00:45] which will be coming down the pike next [2:00:47] year, I believe. [2:00:49] >> Yeah. [2:00:50] >> I don't know how you want us to respond. [2:00:52] >> Well, I was going to say given these are [2:00:53] reports, I don't think there's too much [2:00:54] room to comment here, but what I would [2:00:56] suggest is maybe you and Rebecca can [2:00:57] work on a proposal and bring it back to [2:00:59] us on what next steps we should be [2:01:01] taking with regard to a bag. Yeah. Um [2:01:05] but to add on the HAI conference at [2:01:09] Stanford, um there there's a lot going [2:01:12] on. I do recommend that we circulate the [2:01:15] link so people can understand general [2:01:17] trends. I just found it pretty [2:01:19] interesting on a policy level and um it [2:01:23] did point out the need to start getting [2:01:25] AI related policies, what what can be [2:01:29] used, what can't. So it's not a tomorrow [2:01:32] thing, but I really think we need to [2:01:35] have policies to protect the town and [2:01:38] then the next step would be policies on [2:01:42] making ourselves efficient using AI [2:01:44] within whatever we learn we can do. So [2:01:48] just plant that thought. But I I did [2:01:50] think that was a very um gathering. And [2:01:54] on the Aback stuff um there are some [2:01:58] significant changes. So, as a preview, I [2:02:00] think it's going to be making sure we're [2:02:03] getting ahead rather than being reactive [2:02:06] this time on the new things that we see [2:02:09] coming. So, that'll be we'll put it [2:02:11] together. [2:02:11] >> Great. Thank you. Okay. Um, with that, [2:02:14] I'd like to open it up for public [2:02:15] comment. [2:02:16] >> Oh, I had some comments. [2:02:18] >> Uh, well, do you have another report? I [2:02:22] wanted to comment and make sure that [2:02:23] everyone's uh was invited to the Silicon [2:02:26] Valley leadership group from pilot to [2:02:28] practice building local government [2:02:30] capacity for AI adoption. I'm assuming [2:02:33] everyone got that invitation but um to [2:02:36] make sure that everyone you know Silicon [2:02:38] Valley leadership group is a very strong [2:02:42] uh group around here um so for everyone [2:02:45] to be aware of that. Um, and then I also [2:02:49] noticed the sub region idea. So if you [2:02:52] guys are doing a subcommittee, which it [2:02:53] sounds like you might be or I don't not [2:02:56] official because [2:02:58] >> we can't do one tonight, [2:02:59] >> right? Um, I would note that uh, you [2:03:04] know, be thoughtful about which agencies [2:03:07] oversee it, whether like if you're [2:03:09] looking at Leera, it you know, you would [2:03:11] be working with Ray Mueller's office [2:03:13] potentially or something like that [2:03:15] specifically. [2:03:16] um or if you want Woodside, right? So, [2:03:20] thank um and then thanks to Mary for [2:03:23] while I was out of town, she went to [2:03:26] BPTS and all my other a committees were [2:03:30] cancelled for summer break. Thank you. [2:03:33] >> Um I did have one thing. Can I do it? [2:03:36] >> Yeah, sure. Um as the MSD lays on um I [2:03:43] uh contacted the person who's coming on [2:03:46] as district 6 uh representative. Was he [2:03:50] here? [2:03:50] >> Yeah. [2:03:51] >> Brian Beck was here this evening at the [2:03:53] beginning. [2:03:53] >> At the beginning. Okay. I missed him. [2:03:56] >> Yeah. So I called him and you know him. [2:03:58] >> I know him. He's a good He's a super [2:04:00] nice guy. [2:04:01] >> Super super good guy. And I think we're [2:04:03] really lucky. [2:04:04] >> Is that our [2:04:05] >> That's our district. Yeah. Margaret [2:04:07] McNans. [2:04:08] >> Yeah. And no, no, Margaret McNe, [2:04:12] >> right? W six. [2:04:13] >> Uh, but at any rate, of interest is that [2:04:16] he actually owns property on Los Tranos. [2:04:18] His wife grew up uh on uh in in our town [2:04:23] and he knows this this corner extremely [2:04:26] well and he understands the problem [2:04:30] exactly. So, uh, I think we're very [2:04:33] fortunate. [2:04:35] >> And he came when I asked him and I [2:04:37] didn't see him. [2:04:38] >> Yeah. No, he he was definitely here. So, [2:04:40] okay, great. So, I'd like to open it for [2:04:42] public comment. Are there any public [2:04:43] comments? Please come up to the mic. [2:04:50] » I know you said comments, but I have [2:04:52] more of a question. What use do we have [2:04:54] for AI in our local government? [2:04:57] Okay. So, this is a common period and [2:04:59] this is on subcommittee and liaison [2:05:01] reports. So, I I think we can hear your [2:05:04] question, but we're we're not we won't [2:05:06] address it tonight. [2:05:07] >> Okay. Thank you. [2:05:08] >> Yep. Thank you. [2:05:14] All right. Checking online. I don't see [2:05:16] any hands online. So, I am going to [2:05:18] close that agenda item and move on. I [2:05:21] would accept a motion to adjurnn. [2:05:26] Okay, I have a motion, a second. All in [2:05:28] favor say I. [2:05:32] Thank you. Meeting ajourn.