Atascadero City Council Meeting - July 14, 2026

The Atascadero City Council held a regular meeting on July 14, 2026, where key procurement and budget-related discussions included the retroactive approval of a hazardous heritage tree removal at the Atascadero Senior Center. The council addressed the associated permit fees and mitigation requirements, ultimately approving the removal and directing staff to explore refunding fees paid by the nonprofit senior center due to the tree's natural death. Additionally, the council received and approved the 2026 annual military equipment report from the police department, which included the adoption of an updated military equipment policy and approval of a new drone program. The drone, equipped with thermal and zoom cameras, is intended to enhance officer safety and operational capabilities, with strict privacy safeguards and data storage protocols outlined. The council also discussed upcoming capital improvement projects, including new fire engines funded by Measure D20 and parking lot resurfacing at Paloma Park. A motion was passed to approve the consent calendar, including the confirmation of a new fire chief appointment. The meeting concluded with council announcements and plans to review the city’s tree ordinance and elected officials’ benefits in future sessions.