City Council - January 5, 2026

Veenker wins unanimous vote for mayor

Vicki Veenker was unanimously elected Palo Alto’s 2026 mayor in a 7-0 vote and was subsequently sworn in. Outgoing Mayor Ed Lauing nominated Veenker, who accepted the nomination and described herself as ready to serve.

Council members cited Veenker’s leadership experience and her work on Cubberley, climate issues, regional representation and community-unity efforts. Public comments on the nomination were supportive.

Stone takes vice mayor post in 4-3 vote

Greer Stone was elected 2026 vice mayor over Keith Reckdahl in a 4-3 vote and was sworn in following the election. George Lu nominated Stone, while Julie Lythcott-Haims nominated Reckdahl.

Lauing, Lu, Veenker and Stone voted for Stone. Pat Burt, Lythcott-Haims and Reckdahl supported Reckdahl. Stone’s supporters emphasized his experience, collaborative approach and established working relationship with Veenker, while Reckdahl’s supporters pointed to his community service, committee work and leadership readiness. Veenker, while supporting Stone, also urged future attention to diversity of perspectives in council leadership.

Council honors Lauing’s service as 2025 mayor

The council adopted a resolution honoring Lauing’s service as 2025 mayor, with six members voting in favor and Lauing abstaining. The resolution cited his housing advocacy, including a 2,000-unit housing pipeline, while council members also praised his public outreach, collaborative approach and broader community service.

Primary sources

Watch the meeting on YouTube · Read the official meeting packet