City Council 2024 Priorities Round Up: Highlights from Our Series
At the start of each year, the City Council sets and advances key priorities to improve the community. For 2024, the Council has focused on four priorities: Climate Change and Natural Environment: Protection & Adaptation, Housing for Social and Economic Balance, Economic Development & Transition, and Community Health, Safety, Wellness, and Belonging. In March, Council approved 78 specific, measurable objectives and workplans to support these priorities. Below is a brief summary of our articles on each priority, providing an overview of the progress and initiatives taken.
Click here to access the full series.
Climate Change and Natural Environment: Protection & Adaptation
The City Council is committed to 23 specific objectives to address climate change and protect the natural environment. With long-standing leadership in sustainability, Palo Alto aims to reduce emissions by 80% below 1990 levels and achieve carbon neutrality by 2030. Key initiatives include the Heat Pump Water Heater Program and Whole Home Electrification.
Read part one and part two of our series for detailed insights into these and other efforts to create a greener community.
Housing for Social and Economic Balance
The City Council is focusing on 21 objectives to support Housing for Social and Economic Balance. Palo Alto has long been a leader in the production of affordable housing and currently has the second highest inventory of affordable housing for incorporated jurisdictions within Santa Clara County (as a percentage of total housing stock). Significant achievements include $52 million pledged towards affordable housing and over 1,000 housing units permitted in the last eight years.
Read more about the City’s housing initiatives.
Community Health, Safety, Wellness, and Belonging
Recognizing the enduring impact of the pandemic, the City Council has again prioritized Community Health, Safety, Wellness, and Belonging for 2024. This priority includes 20 objectives focused on promoting holistic community health and safety resources.
Learn more about the progress on this priority and new programs for community health, safety, wellness, and belonging in Palo Alto.
Economic Development & Transition
The Council approved 12 objectives for Economic Development & Transition. Highlights include developing car-free streetscape designs for Cal Ave and Ramona St., finalizing parklet designs, advancing Downtown Parking garage and affordable housing projects, and building out the fiber pilot phase 1. These initiatives aim to support a comprehensive economic development strategy.
Discover more about the economic development plans.
More Online Resources
For a comprehensive look at all the 2024 Council priorities and progress updates, visit www.cityofpaloalto.org/councilpriorities. Stay informed and engaged as we work together to enhance our community.
