Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Public Safety topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Candidates push wildfire preparedness, urge action on eucalyptus trees along Highway 9
Summary
Several council applicants emphasized wildfire evacuation safety and urged coordination with Caltrans to address hazardous eucalyptus trees on Highway 9. Liz Lawler framed tree removal and evacuation-route hardening as top priorities.
Wildfire preparedness and evacuation safety dominated candidate responses during Monte Sereno’s special council meeting on Sept. 16. Multiple applicants told council they would prioritize improving evacuation routes, hydrant maintenance and coordination with county and state agencies to reduce fire risk.
Liz Lawler, a former council member and candidate, said her "primary focus is to work with council to finalize our wildfire safety and evacuation routes and procedures from Monte Sereno and to work with Caltrans in the state to address the dangerous eucalyptus trees on Highway 9 that threaten our evacuation of residents." She cited prior experience with evacuation-route projects and urged continued collaboration with state agencies. Other candidates echoed those concerns and noted the city's wildland-urban interface complicates dense housing solutions.
Candidates also proposed practical steps including public education, hydrant maintenance audits, and partnering with Santa Clara County Fire on seminars and preparedness drills. Several candidates framed these measures as essential to preserving the town’s safety and character while complying with regional requirements.
