District Compass
July 2026
Estimated Reading Time: 10 minutes
San Rafael City Council | District 2 | Eli Hill
Volume 1 • Issue 1
Published: July 2026
Previous Edition: None (Inaugural Issue)
Next Edition: August 2026
Mission San Rafael Arcángel
Welcome
Welcome to the inaugural edition of the District 2 Compass, a monthly summary of the decisions, upcoming meetings, project milestones, and community events most relevant to Downtown and the surrounding District 2 neighborhoods.
The Compass will be published near the beginning of each month with a summary of recent developments, a look at what is expected during the current month, and an early view of what may be coming next. It will also be updated when significant City Council actions or other developments occur during the month.
For permanent information about District 2, current projects, community resources, and district priorities, please use the reference links below:
Explore the District 2 pages:
Current Projects: https://www.elihillsanrafael.com/current-projects
Community Resources: https://www.elihillsanrafael.com/community-resources
District Priorities: https://www.elihillsanrafael.com/district-priorities
This Edition at a Glance
The City Council adopted the FY 2026 to 2027 Budget, Annual Work Plan, and Capital Improvement Program.
Updated recommendations were released for the Second and Fourth Street Improvements project.
The City Council approved Phase 2 speed limit reductions and adopted San Rafael’s first formal traffic calming program.
A proposed real property transfer tax increase was placed before San Rafael voters for the November 3, 2026 election.
Summer activities include Downtown Pizza Month and Gerstle Park Porchfest.
This section records significant actions and developments added after the July Compass was first published.
July 20 City Council Meeting
AB 43 Phase 2 Speed Limit Reductions
The City Council voted 4 to 0 to approve five mile per hour speed limit reductions on 18 roadway segments outside Downtown. District 2 locations include Greenfield Avenue, West End Avenue, portions of Fourth Street along Miracle Mile, and Fifth Avenue in Sun Valley.
Council discussion addressed the restrictions state law places on local speed limit decisions, the importance of comparing speeds and collision data before and after implementation, coordination between posted speeds and traffic signal timing, and the need for other safety improvements on streets that do not legally qualify for a lower limit.
The ordinance will proceed through the required adoption process. The new limits will take effect after final adoption and installation of updated signs.
Reference: AB 43 Phase 2 Speed Limit Reductions
Real Property Transfer Tax Ballot Measure
The City Council voted 4 to 0 to place a proposed increase in San Rafael’s real property transfer tax on the November 3, 2026 ballot.
If approved by voters, the rate would increase from 0.2 percent to 1 percent. Staff estimates that the change would generate approximately $6 million annually for the City’s General Fund.
Council discussion addressed the effect on property transactions, whether the measure should use a flat or graduated rate, comparisons with other charter cities, San Rafael’s comparatively low share of regular property tax revenue, and provisions for audits, public disclosure, and oversight.
The Council’s action did not enact the tax. San Rafael voters will decide the proposal in November.
Reference: November 2026 Ballot Measure: Revenue Enhancement - Real Property Transfer Tax Rate
Citywide Traffic Calming Program
The City Council voted 4 to 0 to adopt San Rafael’s first formal traffic calming program. The policy establishes a consistent process for evaluating speeding and traffic volume concerns on residential streets.
The program includes a range of potential responses, beginning with signs, pavement markings, and other lower cost measures and extending to traffic studies and physical improvements where appropriate.
Council discussion focused on how affected households will be identified, participation by renters and residents of multifamily buildings, the practicality of collecting neighborhood support, and the City’s ability to initiate improvements based on safety and engineering data.
Reference: Traffic Calming Program Policy
Opportunity Zone 2.0
The City Council voted 4 to 0 to recommend five eligible San Rafael census tracts for consideration under the federal Opportunity Zone 2.0 program, including a Downtown tract.
Council discussion addressed how the City could encourage investment consistent with adopted community plans, the limited performance data available from the original Opportunity Zone program, potential displacement risks, and the importance of considering tenant protections on a citywide basis.
The City’s recommendation is one step in the designation process. The Governor’s Office will determine which California census tracts are ultimately nominated.
Reference: Nomination of Eligible Census Tracts for Opportunity Zone 2.0
Remote Public Participation
The July 20 meeting marked the implementation of expanded remote participation under Senate Bill 707. Members of the public may participate in City Council meetings in person, through Zoom, or by telephone.
Reference: San Rafael City Council Changes to Hybrid Meetings Starting July 20 Under New State Law
Updates Since Publication
Since the Last Compass
Because this is the inaugural edition, this section summarizes significant actions and milestones that occurred shortly before or during the initial July publication period.
FY 2026 to 2027 Budget, Annual Work Plan, and Capital Improvement Program
The City Council adopted the FY 2026 to 2027 Budget, Annual Work Plan, and Capital Improvement Program. Together, these documents establish the City’s priorities, service objectives, funding, and capital investments for the fiscal year.
The adopted plans guide work on transportation improvements, Measure P implementation, Downtown revitalization, public safety, homelessness response, neighborhood infrastructure, and other City services.
References:
Albert Park Library and Community Center
The City Council authorized capital project management services for the Albert Park Library and Community Center, marking another step in implementation of the Measure P program.
Project management, community engagement, project definition, design development, and preparation for environmental review will continue.
Reference: Albert Park Library and Community Center
Andersen Drive Camping Ordinance
The City Council adopted an ordinance prohibiting camping along the Andersen Drive corridor. The ordinance is part of the City’s broader approach to improving public safety while expanding shelter capacity, services, and pathways to housing.
Implementation of the Interim Shelter Site at 350 Merrydale Road continues as the City coordinates with County and service partners.
References:
Second and Fourth Street Improvements
The City released an updated memorandum summarizing the transportation analysis and recommendations prepared by Parametrix for the Second and Fourth Street corridors.
The public comment period provided residents, businesses, and other corridor users with an opportunity to respond before the City evaluates priorities and possible next steps.
References:
Looking Ahead to August
The following items may advance during August. Meeting schedules and project timing remain subject to change.
AB 43 Phase 2
The speed limit ordinance is expected to complete the remaining adoption process. Staff will then prepare for installation of updated signs and implementation of the approved limits.
Traffic Calming Program
Staff is expected to begin translating the newly adopted traffic calming policy into operating procedures, including how residents may submit requests and how neighborhood support will be evaluated.
The Council’s July 20 discussion emphasized equitable participation by renters, residents of multifamily properties, and neighborhoods with differing levels of organizational capacity.
Real Property Transfer Tax Measure
The City will continue the administrative steps required to place the proposed real property transfer tax increase on the November 3 ballot.
Future materials should provide voters with neutral information about the existing rate, the proposed rate, estimated revenue, oversight provisions, and permitted uses of the general fund revenue.
Opportunity Zone 2.0
The City’s census tract recommendations will move forward as part of the state designation process.
City staff also indicated that broader tenant protection and anti-displacement policy questions are expected to return for additional discussion through the Economic Development and Housing Subcommittee.
Albert Park Library and Community Center
Project management, community engagement, project definition, and design work are expected to continue. The survey is still open!
Reference: Albert Park Library and Community Center
Participate This Month
Review the Second and Fourth Street Recommendations
Residents, businesses, and corridor users may review the updated transportation memorandum and related recommendations for the Second and Fourth Street corridors.
References:
• Updated Memorandum and Feedback Request
Follow the Albert Park Project
Residents may submit input and subscribe for updates as planning continues for the Albert Park Library and Community Center.
References:
Participate in Public Meetings
Council and Planning Commission agendas include instructions for submitting written comments and participating in meetings.
Telephone and online public comment are available for City Council meetings under Senate Bill 707.
References:
• City Council Meetings and Materials
• Planning Commission Meetings and Materials
For ongoing City contacts, neighborhood information, reporting tools, subscriptions, and other standing resources, visit the Community Resources page.
What's New on the District 2 Website
Several sections of the District 2 website have been expanded this month.
Current Projects
The redesigned Current Projects page now organizes information into:
Active City Projects
Development Projects to Watch
Community Initiatives
Recently Completed Projects
Each project includes:
Why It Matters
Current Status
Timeline
Key Milestones
Official City resources
Explore: https://www.elihillsanrafael.com/current-projects
Community Resources
The Community Resources page has been expanded into a comprehensive guide for residents.
Highlights include:
Civic Participation
Remote Participation (SB 707)
City Services
Strategic Plan
Annual Work Plan
Planning & Development
Community Organizations, Events & Schools
The page also includes a helpful "Where Do I Get My Services?" graphic explaining which public agency provides many of the services residents use every day.
Explore: https://www.elihillsanrafael.com/community-resources
District Priorities
Interested in the issues shaping District 2?
The District Priorities page summarizes ongoing work related to:
Housing
Transportation
Public Safety
Sustainability
Parks & Open Space
Economic Development
Community Engagement
Explore: https://www.elihillsanrafael.com/district-priorities
Albert Park Library & Community Center (Measure P)
The new Albert Park Library & Community Center is one of the City's largest civic investments in decades. Funded primarily through Measure P, the project will replace aging facilities with a modern library and flexible community gathering space while improving access to Albert Park.
Recent Activity
The City Council approved the project delivery strategy.
Capital project management services have been procured.
Design work continues following community outreach and Council direction.
What Happens Next
Continue architectural design.
Community engagement.
Environmental review.
Construction procurement.
Project page: https://www.elihillsanrafael.com/current-projects#albert-park
Second & Fourth Street Intersection Improvements
This project proposes operational and safety improvements at one of Downtown's busiest intersections. The City has been gathering public feedback while refining alternatives to improve safety, circulation, and access for all transportation modes.
Recent Activity
Updated design concepts were released.
Community feedback has continued.
Staff continues evaluating alternatives.
Why It Matters
This intersection serves residents traveling between Downtown, Gerstle Park, Lincoln Hill, West End, and Highway 101. Improvements are intended to increase safety while maintaining access for drivers, pedestrians, bicyclists, and transit users.
Project page: https://www.elihillsanrafael.com/current-projects#second-fourth
West Crescent Signal Improvements
The City continues planning improvements along West Crescent to improve traffic operations and pedestrian safety while supporting future Downtown mobility improvements.
Recent Activity
Technical evaluation continues.
Coordination with related transportation projects remains underway.
What Happens Next
Additional design refinement and environmental review before returning to the City Council.
Project page: https://www.elihillsanrafael.com/current-projects#west-crescent
Assembly Bill 43 Speed Limit Updates
San Rafael continues implementation of Assembly Bill 43, which allows cities to reduce speed limits on qualifying streets based on safety considerations rather than historical vehicle speeds alone.
Phase 2 Highlights
Proposed speed reductions include portions of:
West End Avenue
Greenfield Avenue
4th Street (Miracle Mile)
Fifth Avenue (Sun Valley)
The recommendations support the City's Vision Zero strategy to reduce severe traffic injuries and fatalities.
Upcoming Decision
The City Council is expected to consider the Phase 2 recommendations at an upcoming meeting.
Project page: https://www.elihillsanrafael.com/current-projects#ab43
350 Merrydale Interim Housing
Planning continues for the proposed interim housing community at 350 Merrydale Road. The project is intended to expand temporary housing options while connecting residents with supportive services and pathways toward permanent housing.
Current Status
Planning and environmental review continue.
Community outreach remains ongoing.
Future Planning Commission and City Council meetings are anticipated.
Project page: https://www.elihillsanrafael.com/current-projects#merrydale
District 2 continues to see investment in transportation, public facilities, housing, and neighborhood improvements. This section summarizes the major projects currently underway or anticipated to affect District 2 residents.
For detailed background, timelines, project documents, and official resources, visit the Current Projects page: https://www.elihillsanrafael.com/current-projects
Active Projects
Development Projects to Watch
Downtown Revitalization
Downtown San Rafael continues to benefit from coordinated investments in transportation, housing, economic development, and public spaces. Ongoing initiatives seek to support local businesses while improving safety, accessibility, and neighborhood vitality.
These efforts include:
Transportation improvements
Public realm enhancements
Housing development
Community events
Business support
Learn more: https://www.elihillsanrafael.com/district-priorities
Several private development proposals continue moving through the City's planning process. While these projects are not City-sponsored, they have the potential to influence housing, neighborhood character, transportation, or economic activity within District 2.
Current projects include:
700 B Street
Other significant proposals identified on the City's Major Planning Projects webpage
Residents interested in following development proposals can review application materials, hearing schedules, and staff reports through: https://www.cityofsanrafael.org/major-planning-projects-2025/
Community Initiatives
Recently Completed
Recent accomplishments include:
Expanded remote public participation under Senate Bill 707.
Continued implementation of Vision Zero transportation initiatives.
Progress toward delivery of the Albert Park Library & Community Center.
Continued implementation of the City's 2025–2028 Strategic Plan and FY 2026–2027 Annual Work Plan.
City Meetings & Participation
One of the most effective ways to shape the future of San Rafael is to participate in local government. City Council, Planning Commission, advisory boards, and neighborhood organizations all provide opportunities for residents to learn, ask questions, and provide feedback before decisions are made.
For meeting schedules, agendas, and participation resources, visit:
Community Resources: https://www.elihillsanrafael.com/community-resources
Upcoming City Council Topics
The City Council's agenda evolves throughout the month, but several topics expected to affect District 2 include:
Assembly Bill 43 Phase 2 Speed Limit Recommendations
The Council is expected to consider Phase 2 of San Rafael's implementation of Assembly Bill 43. The proposal would reduce posted speed limits on several eligible streets throughout the City, including portions of:
West End Avenue
Greenfield Avenue
4th Street (Miracle Mile)
Fifth Avenue (Sun Valley)
The recommendations are intended to improve safety for everyone traveling on San Rafael streets while advancing the City's Vision Zero goals.
Learn more: https://www.elihillsanrafael.com/current-projects#ab43
Albert Park Library & Community Center
Expect continued updates as planning and design move forward for the new Albert Park Library & Community Center.
Future Council actions may include:
Design updates
Budget adjustments
Procurement
Construction milestones
Project information: https://www.elihillsanrafael.com/current-projects#albert-park
Transportation Improvements
Additional updates may occur on:
Second & Fourth Street Intersection
West Crescent Improvements
Vision Zero implementation
Bicycle and pedestrian safety initiatives
Project information: https://www.elihillsanrafael.com/current-projects
Property Transfer Tax Measure
The City Council will consider whether to place a Property Transfer Tax measure on the November 2026 ballot. The discussion is part of the City’s broader Fiscal Sustainability Framework and follows recent community polling evaluating options to address long term funding needs for infrastructure, public safety, and other City services. If approved by the Council, the measure would be presented to San Rafael voters this November.
Why it matters: A Property Transfer Tax is paid when ownership of real property changes hands. If approved by voters, additional revenue would be deposited into the City’s General Fund and could support City priorities such as infrastructure, public safety, and other municipal services, with annual spending determined through the City’s budget process.
Learn more: Review the July 20 City Council agenda packet and participate in the discussion by attending the meeting in person or remotely. Public comment will be accepted before the Council decides whether to place the measure on the November ballot.
Participating in City Council Meetings
Residents have several ways to participate:
Attend in Person
City Council meetings are generally held at:
San Rafael City Hall
1400 Fifth Avenue
San Rafael, CA
Current meeting information: https://www.cityofsanrafael.org/city-council-meetings/
Participate Remotely
Beginning in 2026, Senate Bill 707 requires California cities of San Rafael's size to provide remote participation options for regular City Council meetings.
Residents may:
Watch meetings live.
Join remotely.
Submit public comments during the meeting.
Participate without traveling to City Hall.
Instructions are posted with each City Council agenda.
Learn more: https://www.elihillsanrafael.com/community-resources#remote-participation
Submit Written Comments
Residents may also submit written comments before meetings.
Instructions for submitting written public comment are included with every posted agenda.
Meeting agendas: https://www.cityofsanrafael.org/city-council-meetings/
Stay Informed Between Meetings
If you prefer to follow City activities throughout the month, several resources provide regular updates.
City Manager's Snapshot
A regular summary of City news, projects, upcoming meetings, and community events.
https://www.cityofsanrafael.org/snapshot/
City Calendar
Community events, meetings, and public hearings.
https://www.cityofsanrafael.org/events/
Additional Ways to Get Involved
District 2 has a strong tradition of neighborhood engagement. Residents are encouraged to participate through local organizations, volunteer opportunities, and community events.
Examples include:
Federation of San Rafael Neighborhoods
Neighborhood associations
Downtown San Rafael Business Improvement District
San Rafael Parks Foundation
San Rafael Fire Foundation
PorchFest San Rafael
A directory of these organizations is available on the Community Resources page: https://www.elihillsanrafael.com/community-resources
Questions or Suggestions?
If there is a City project, neighborhood issue, or community topic you would like to see covered in a future edition of the District Compass, please don't hesitate to reach out.
You can also use the City's SeeClickFix platform to report potholes, graffiti, streetlight outages, illegal dumping, and other maintenance concerns: https://www.cityofsanrafael.org/report-an-issue/
Looking Ahead
Over the next several months, residents can expect continued progress on several District 2 priorities.
Additional review of community feedback for the Second and Fourth Street project.
Continued planning and engagement for the Albert Park Library and Community Center.
Ongoing design work for the West Crescent Drive and Fourth Street Signalization project.
Continued implementation of the Interim Shelter Site at 350 Merrydale Road.
Summer programming and events throughout Downtown.
Thank You
Thank you for taking the time to read this month's District 2 Compass.
San Rafael benefits from residents who stay informed, ask thoughtful questions, volunteer in their neighborhoods, and participate in local government. Whether you attend a meeting, provide public comment, volunteer with a community organization, or simply help a neighbor, your involvement strengthens our community.
I hope this monthly publication helps make City government more accessible and provides useful context for the work happening throughout District 2.
If there are topics you would like to see covered in a future edition, please don't hesitate to reach out through my website.
Continue Exploring
District Priorities – Learn about the long term issues shaping District 2.
Community Resources – Access official City meetings, services, projects, and community resources.
Current Projects – Follow the progress of major District 2 initiatives.