Community leaders condemn antisemitism following DC murders during humanitarian event

The City Council of Palo Alto convened on July 8, 2025, to address several pressing issues, including public safety, community events, and local governance. The meeting began with a somber public comment session, where speakers expressed deep concerns regarding rising antisemitism and violence linked to recent protests and events in the area.

The first speaker highlighted the tragic murders of Sarah Milgram and Yaron Lechinsky in Washington, D.C., attributing their deaths to a climate of hate fueled by slogans such as "Free Palestine." This speaker emphasized that such rhetoric is perceived as a call for violence against Jews, drawing parallels to historical acts of aggression. The urgency of addressing these sentiments was echoed by subsequent speakers, who recounted incidents of antisemitism at local events and in schools, urging the council to take a firm stance against hate speech disguised as activism.

Another speaker, Alan C., commended the council for its efforts to combat hate but urged for stricter enforcement of event permits and a clear stance against groups promoting hate. He called for the city to ensure that events sponsored by the city do not align with organizations that tolerate or promote violence.

Following the public comments, the council moved to the consent calendar, where a request to increase compensation for the independent police auditor was discussed. A speaker raised concerns about the lack of communication regarding this increase and emphasized the need for community involvement in discussions about police oversight.

The Vice Mayor reported on recent meetings with the Northern California Power Agency, highlighting the approval of a wildfire mitigation plan and ongoing projects related to renewable energy. He also shared insights from a recent trip to Washington, D.C., where discussions centered on the reversal of California's Clean Air Act waivers, stressing the implications for local air quality and public health.

The meeting concluded with a continuation of discussions regarding a planned community ordinance for 4075 El Camino Way, where the council resumed deliberations on a proposal to add 16 units to an existing development.

Overall, the meeting underscored the council's commitment to addressing community safety, public health, and the importance of fostering a respectful and inclusive environment in Palo Alto. The council plans to continue its discussions on these critical issues in future meetings.