Redwood City · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Redwood City public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Zoppé Circus performance agreement
The city approved a live performance agreement with Zoppé Circus for up to $249,950 without competitive bidding, plus temporary one-hour parking limits at the Library lots during the event.
Maple and Lathrop property negotiations
The city is negotiating to buy a 0.32-acre parcel at Maple and Lathrop from the Successor Agency — details stayed in closed session.
Disability Pride Flag recognition
The city will now display the Disability Pride Flag every July to mark National Disability Pride Month.
Youth civic engagement (VOICE program)
The Youth Leadership Institute's VOICE program presented three years of work building youth civic power in Redwood City, with priorities of housing justice, youth employment and accessible youth services.
Sewer service charges on the tax roll
Sewer charges for single-family residential customers will be collected through the property tax bill for FY 2026-27. No protests were filed.
City workforce vacancies and recruitment (AB 2561)
The city has 57 vacancies out of 622 budgeted positions (9.2%), among the lowest of eleven surveyed agencies. HR completed 98 recruitments in 2025 and is pursuing new software and flexible hiring list rules.
Declining tree canopy and tree ordinance update
City Trees president David Grabel reported the city's tree canopy fell from 15% to 13% and the city loses about 200 trees a year, asking that the incoming Public Works director be a tree advocate and that the public have input on the revised 50-year-old tree ordinance.
Juva Retail cannabis tax settlement
Behind closed doors, the council approved a settlement resolving Juva Retail's unpaid cannabis business taxes.
Spinas Park Restroom Building
New restroom building at Spinas Park awarded to the low bidder for $269,269, with a contingency to $296,196.
Federal enforcement and community safety concerns
Resident Quinn Summers, citing federal enforcement actions in Minneapolis, asked the council to prepare ways to protect the community, suggesting organized volunteer capacity under city and police leadership.
2026 Legislative Platform
The city's annual advocacy playbook for Sacramento now emphasizes regional transit, Vision Zero, library privacy and funding, affordable housing (including Article 34 repeal), and rewarding cities that build housing.
Parking garage access system replacement
The city is spending about $577,000 to replace the aging parking access and payment systems at the Jefferson and Marshall Street garages, with optional multi-year support up to roughly $308,000 more.