- We continued discussion on the adoption of a City flag. The Council felt it could be a worthwhile effort in order to bring together community. Ultimately the cost should be minimal, and it would be an opportunity to encourage civic engagement. Various ideas were discussed, including involving residents in both the creation and selection process, with specific mention of including our local high school and other students. The process could include holding a contest, providing various themes, inviting artists, etc. The Council formed an Ad-Hoc Committee (5-0) consisting of Mayor Trupiano and Councilmember Diaz. The Ad-Hoc Committee will work together to formulate an overall process and bring it back to the Council for discussion.
- We had our fourth session on future revenue options. There was a report out from the Financial Sustainability Committee regarding their recommendations. The Committee recommended that the City pursue a renewal of the assessment for the Landscape Maintenance District (LMD) on the November 2026 ballot, include a small market adjustment to the base rate, and preserve the 10 year sunset. The Committee also recommended that the City consider a 1% sales tax on the November 2026 ballot as well. This idea was advanced in order to preserve the City's ability to levy this tax should the the County or State attempt to preempt this in the future. Clayton has the lowest sales tax rate in the County, including being lower than our Concord neighbors. Assuming market conditions hold, a sales tax would shore up the projected budget shortfalls in the future.
The Council gave direction (5-0) to staff to pursue both the renewal of the LMD, and the 1% sales tax. The specifics of each will be discussed and solidified at a future meeting.
