About Los Altos

The mission of our city staff, council, commissions, committees and volunteers is to foster and maintain the City of Los Altos as a great place to live and to raise a family.

To accomplish the mission statment...

Tree lined streets and a small village atmosphere characterize Los Altos which is located in the heart of world famous Silicon Valley. Just 40 miles south of San Francisco, Los Altos is a residential community served by seven small retail areas. The seven square mile city is developed with small businesses, schools, libraries and churches.

Incorporated in 1952, Los Altos is a general law city with five elected council members who serve four-year terms. City Council meetings are held the second and fourth Tuesday of every month. Appointed commissions and committees assist the Council in an advisory capacity. The Council appointed city manager is responsible for financial and operational management of the city's 130 employees.

HIGHLIGHTS

Los Altos has international sister cities ties with Bendigo, Australia; Syktyvkar, Russia; Shih Lin Taiwan and Rustington, England.

Over 200 volunteers a year assist in providing city government services to the community.

In 1982, Los Altos became a leader in recycling programs when it began curbside residential collection of bottles, cans and newspaper. Since then motor oil and yard waste and mixed paper have been added.

City Council and Planning Commission meetings are televised live on the city's cable television government access channel 26. In addition, this channel carries a 24-hour video bulletin board on city services, activities and events. In January '09 Council meetings will be streamed live to the Internet.