Meeting at a glance: Santa Clara council approves Measure I levy, major SVP contract and eminent-domain findings; other actions

The Santa Clara City Council and Stadium Authority Board took multiple formal actions Tuesday. Key votes and short summaries are below.

Votes at a glance

- Adopted resolution authorizing an ad valorem property tax levy for fiscal year 2025–26 to support Measure I general-obligation bonds; maximum rate set at $28.70 per $100,000 of assessed value. Vote: unanimous (7–0).

- Awarded the Keifer and Scott Receiving Station rebuilds contract to DMZ Builders in the base amount $117,688,674, with contingency authority up to 15% (total not-to-exceed $135,341,975); approved related FY 2025–26 budget amendment of $15,000,000. Vote: 6–0 (Councilmember Chahal recused).

- Adopted resolutions of necessity to acquire easements for the 115 kV transmission project at 3800 Bassett Street and 891 Laurelwood Road. Both resolutions passed by 6–1 votes; staff will continue voluntary negotiations while preserving the eminent-domain option.

- Noted and filed a study session on the revised El Camino Real specific plan and directed staff to proceed to a public draft and environmental review. Vote: unanimous (7–0).

- Approved acceptance of a $20,000 donation from the Santa Clara Women’s League to the Santa Clara Senior Center (consent calendar). Vote: unanimous.

- Approved location and design of a permanent rainbow crosswalk at Monroe and Franklin, ladder-style perpendicular rainbow stripes (thermoplastic), with the Cultural Commission’s alternate location noted. Vote: 6 in favor, 1 abstention.

- Adopted new council policy 0 5 5 (Council Meeting Procedures and Protocols) on a six-month pilot; motion includes a council directive that meetings should end by midnight unless the council votes to extend. Vote: 6–1.

Other items

- The council observed a moment of silence and recognized the service of reserve officer John “Jack” Mastelock and several civic proclamations and donations.

Looking ahead

Staff said Measure I issuance scheduling and final levy amounts will be refined after county assessed valuations are released in September. SVP staff will proceed with contract execution and continued property negotiations; staff said voluntary sale remains the preference where possible.