What’s in the Record
The site selection came first
A CEQA-avoidance strategy was chosen
The initiative was drafted by the City Council
Residents were urged on signatures and timing
Only later was the effort relabeled as “Citizen-led”
What the Council actually said — and when
Why this meeting matters:
This is where O’Keefe was identified, alternatives were dismissed, and a CEQA-avoidance strategy was openly discussed.
Key Moments
🕒 1:13:45 — Council (not citizens) introduces the Sham “Citizen” Initiative
Vice Mayor explains initiative mechanics. Describes steps residents must follow. Describes signature thresholds & ballot timing. Explains “what we (the council) could do.
🕒 1:18:04 – Mayor Directs the Start of the Initiative Work
Mayor says “Start working on that right away.”
🕒 1:18:15 — City Attorney Outlines point-by-point how to avoid CEQA
The City Attorney states that a Council-sponsored initiative would trigger CEQA, but a “citizen” initiative would not .
Advises that the City can draft the language for others to circulate. Council requests a “template” for residents.
🕒 1:29:50 — Council pushes urgency and deadlines
Councilmembers discuss election timing, January deadlines, and the need to move quickly.
🕒 1:41:17 — Mayor recommends to do “Citizens” Initiative
Mayor says “Do the citizens’ initiative regarding O’Keefe and see if you can get it done quickly.”
🕒 1:43:10 — Vice Mayor urges signature gathering. Will provide ballot language
Residents are encouraged to collect signatures to qualify the initiative for a 2026 ballot
🕒 1:45:20 — Vice Mayor pushes forward O’Keefe Initiative
Council driving the timeline. “We need to get working on O’Keefe right away.”
🕒 1:50:35 — Council Declare “We Can Make It Happen”
Council publicly commits to executing the initiative plan — indistinguishable from a council-sponsored measure.
🕒 1:50:54 — City provides the workaround
The City Attorney advises against forming a committee “legally,” while the Mayor confirms the City will provide a “template” and that residents must “take charge.”
Why this meeting matters:
The City presents a fully drafted initiative — written by the City Attorney — complete with maps, exhibits, legal amendments, and an election roadmap.
Key Moments
🕒 Opening Presentation — City-written initiative revealed
The City Attorney’s Office reveals detailed materials, , including a draft initiative, prepared by themselves
🕒 23:27 CEQA discussion — why this must be called ‘citizen-led’
The City Attorney reiterates that CEQA applies if the Council sponsors the measure, but not if citizens do — reinforcing the strategy first described on October 29.
🕒 24:18 — Election strategy and signature math
Councilmembers discuss how many signatures are needed, buffer targets, and whether June or November 2026 is achievable.
🕒 48:20 Public pushback — script suddenly changes
After residents object, Councilmembers abruptly claim the meeting is “just a listening session” and that the Council has “no power,” despite having drafted and promoted the initiative.
Watch the videos. Read the record. Decide for yourself.
If you believe major land-use decisions should follow the law, respect voter-approved open spaces, and undergo environmental review before being rushed to the ballot, join us.