City Council and Authorities Concurrent & Santa Clara Stadium Authority Board - May 19, 2026

The City of Santa Clara held a City Council and Authorities Concurrent & Santa Clara Stadium Authority Board meeting on May 19, 2026, which included extensive discussions on the proposed fiscal year 2026-27 budget and a significant agenda item regarding a potential land exchange and city hall relocation. The council reviewed a $1.7 billion budget proposal emphasizing capital improvements funded by Measure I bonds, utility projects, and infrastructure needs, with a focus on fiscal sustainability and restoration of frozen positions. A key procurement-related discussion centered on an exclusive negotiating agreement (ENA) with Valley Oak Partners for a potential land exchange involving the current city hall civic center campus and the Agnews Oracle campus. The ENA would allow the city to evaluate the feasibility of relocating city hall to the Agnews site while the developer funds due diligence costs. The council debated the merits and risks of entering into the ENA, with concerns about transparency, public engagement, historic preservation costs, and the exclusivity limiting other options. Ultimately, the council voted to forego the ENA but directed staff to continue evaluating options for the civic center, preserve the land swap option without exclusivity, and form a community advisory committee to involve public input and conduct a facilities needs assessment. Additionally, the council approved the El Camino Real Specific Plan, aimed at promoting mixed-use development, increased housing density, and retail revitalization along the corridor, with attention to affordability and neighborhood transitions. The meeting also included acceptance of a $24,000 donation to the Santa Clara Senior Center and recognition of sustainability fellows. Several motions were passed related to budget public hearing scheduling and continuation of a solid waste rate hearing.