Send this story Print this story

Adjust text size

Menlo briefs: Peter Ohtaki in line to be Menlo Park's next mayor

by Sandy Brundage

A new mayor and vice mayor will be chosen at the Tuesday, Dec. 4, meeting of the Menlo Park City Council.

The city's non-binding policy states that council members who have served at least one year and have yet to hold the lead office take priority, leaving current Vice Mayor Peter Ohtaki squarely in front to replace Mayor Kirsten Keith.

The field of contenders to replace Mr. Ohtaki as vice mayor is a bit broader, as newcomers Ray Mueller and Catherine Carlton will join the council. Outgoing members Kelly Fergusson and Andy Cohen will have a chance to bid farewell to the dais during the meeting.

The meeting starts at 7 p.m. in the council chambers at the Civic Center at 701 Laurel St.

Holiday parking

Menlo Park has never been the sort of town where you can shop until you drop — for one thing, the fear of parking tickets keeps people from staying overlong. But that changes during the holiday season.

Parking limits have been extended from two to three hours in all downtown plazas except the No. plaza next to Draeger's, according to the police. The change lasts until Monday, Jan. 7. Street parking remains as posted, however, and tickets will still be given for overtime parking, so don't get carried away.

Chamber holiday mixer

The Bank of the West will host the Menlo Park Chamber of Commerce holiday mixer on Wednesday, Dec. 5. The party starts at 5:30 p.m. at 701 Santa Cruz Ave. New, unwrapped toys will be collected for the Menlo Park Fire Fighters Association Toy and Food Drive.

Pet portraits

Menlo Park goes to the dogs on Saturday, Dec. 8. Bow Wow Meow at 654 Santa Cruz Ave. will host an adoption event and holiday pet portrait fundraiser from 1 to 3 p.m.

For a $15 to $20 donation, get a portrait of your dog with or without the family from photographer Chung Nguyen. Proceeds benefit Copper's Dream rescue, a nonprofit that aims to end the euthanasia of adoptable dogs in California.