Thank you to those of you who participated in the Town’s independent community survey last fall. More than 90% of respondents said they are satisfied with the services Portola Valley provides, and your feedback is truly appreciated as it helps guide important community decisions. 

Now more than ever, it is critical that Portola Valley is prepared for natural disasters such as wildfires, earthquakes, flooding, and landslides. Preparation includes prevention measures, evacuation planning, and reliable emergency response communication systems to help keep residents safe. 

It is also important that Portola Valley protect its Town autonomy and ability to make local zoning decisions as an incorporated community. If the Town were to lose its independent status, zoning and planning decisions would instead be made by the County. 

Survey respondents identified key priorities including: 

• Maintaining wildfire prevention services such as vegetation and brush management and clearance programs to reduce the risk of wildfire 

• Maintaining 911 emergency response times and police patrols 

• Preventing a County takeover of local zoning and planning services 

• Repairing deteriorating storm drains to prevent system failure, flowing and water pollution and sinkholes 

We want to continue hearing from more residents. Please share your perspectives by participating in our new community survey about protecting emergency services and ensuring our Town’s financial stability and help shape the future of Portola Valley.