Shape the City’s Goals | Lumina, Advisory Bodies, and More (4.2.26)

Right now is one of the most important times to formally engage with the City.

Every two years, we set the goals that direct staff how to spend their time, shape how resources are used, and ultimately determine the budget and services our community receives. Read More

Why Fixing Paso Robles Roads Is More Complex—and Costly—Than It Looks

From pavement conditions to funding realities, maintaining 150 miles of city streets requires long-term investment, strategic planning, and careful prioritization.

Understanding Road Conditions and Costs

The City uses a Pavement Condition Index (PCI) to measure road quality on a scale of 0 to 100, with 100 representing a brand-new street. Paso Robles’ average PCI is 54, compared to a statewide average of about 67. Conditions vary across the city, with the east side averaging 61 and the west side 47.  

Timing is critical. Streets with a PCI above 60 can often be maintained with lower-cost surface treatments. Once they fall below that threshold, deterioration accelerates and repairs become far more expensive, often requiring reconstruction of the underlying base.  

The scale of need is significant:

• Improving the average PCI from 54 to 59 would require about $12 million annually for 10 years

• Reaching an average PCI of 80 would require roughly $25 million annually for 10 years  

Current funding levels fall well short of these amounts, making prioritization essential and progress gradual.

Challenges for the City

Paso Robles faces several unique challenges:

• Large local road miles relative to population, the City maintains more roadway per person than other cities

• San Luis Obispo: 126.75 mi, 57 residents (1,000’s), 2.22 mi/1000 residents

• Arroyo Grande–Grover Beach–Pismo Beach: 146.19 mi, 51 residents (1,000’s), 2.87 mi/1000 residents

• El Paso de Robles–Atascadero: 301.03 mi , 60 residents (1,000’s), 4.43 mi/1000 residents

• City of Paso Robles: 150 mi, 32 residents (1,000’s), 4.69 mi/1000 residents

• Older streets often require more intensive improvements, including ADA-compliant curb ramps and sidewalks. Treatments like grind and overlay can trigger federal ADA requirements, significantly increasing project scope and cost—especially on many west side streets

• Many older roads also require underground utility upgrades. While this will increase initial project costs—sometimes by up to 40%—completing utility work concurrently with road repair avoid tearing up newly improved streets later, protecting long-term investments and reducing future disruption

What the City Is Doing

Paso Robles’ supplemental sales tax—Measure E-12 (2012–2024) and Measure I-24 (current)—funds street repairs across roughly 150 lane miles of roadway. These local funds are combined with Measure J-20, state gas tax revenue, grants, and other sources.

The supplemental road tax generates about $5.5 million annually, serving as a foundation to secure additional funding.  Local dollars are leveraged to bring in outside resources, allowing total investment to exceed local tax revenue. Actual annual expenditures will vary year to year based on timing, duration of the project, scale of project(s), and amount of outside funding.

Since 2013, the City has completed 36 projects totaling about $49 million, averaging roughly $3.7 million annually. Examples of completed projects include:

• Dry Creek Road — $4.5 million

• Spring Street (1st–15th) — $4.1 million

• 12th Street (Spring to Fresno) — $2.8 million

• Golden Hill Road — $2.6 million

• Rambouillet / Nicklaus area — $2.6 million

• Sherwood / Creston / Linne — $2.4 million

There are currently 17 active projects totaling about $60 million, including:

• Creston Road Phase 1 - $12.1 million (note: this is nearly complete)

• Creston Road Phase 2 — $10.9 million

• Sherwood / Sierra Bonita — $7.7 million

• 24th Street Bridge — $4.1 million

• 13th Street / Niblick Bridge — $3.3 million

• Sunset / Panorama — $2.6 million

• Melody Drive — $3.1 million

These figures of completed and active projects are always changing due to the dynamic nature of road projects.

Overview of City of Paso Robles roads projects in some phase construction (Spring 2026).

A New Approach to Sequencing Road Repair

The City’s new rolling Five-Year Capital Improvement Program (CIP) replaces the previous fixed six-year model, allowing priorities to be updated with each two-year budget cycle, projects to be accelerated as funding becomes available, and emerging needs to be addressed more quickly. By advancing projects concurrently across design, engineering, and construction, the City can reduce downtime and maintain a more consistent, sustained pace of investment in street repairs.

In addition, the City has allocated $500K for minor projects (less than $75K) to be completed in house. This will facilitate completing special projects (that are more involved than filling potholes) on an ongoing basis.

Final Thoughts

Maintaining and improving Paso Robles’ roadway system is a long-term effort that requires steady investment, careful planning, and disciplined prioritization. With limited resources and significant need, the City must continually weigh costs and benefits—leveraging local funding with outside resources to deliver the greatest possible impact each year.

For those that are interested in roads, Public Works makes a monthly council presentation on projects on the first Tuesday of the month (old presentations can be viewed on YouTube and powerpoints are also available). In addition, the Supplemental Tax and Oversight Committee reviews plans, progress and budgets of the city’s supplemental taxes — they meet quarterly and are open to the public.

References and Resources

• Supplemental Tax Oversight Committee (February 18, 2026) Includes information on projects completed and in progress

• Streets Maintenance Facts (2024)

• Interactive PCI Map

• Road Repair Plan (September 16, 2025 Presentation to Council) Includes details on new major projects and 5 year capital improvement program, overview of dollars vs time of road repair, and more

• California Public Road Data (2024)

OP Ed: Reflections from my first year on the Council and why public participation is key to building a stronger community (3.2.26)

Published in Paso Robles Daily News

– As I begin my second year on the Paso Robles City Council, I’m reminded that local government isn’t distant — it shapes our neighborhoods, daily routines, and the opportunities we pass to the next generation. Every decision at City Hall touches housing, jobs, community services, infrastructure, and public safety. These choices affect all of us, and how we participate matters.

I see my role as a bridge between the community and the Council. Residents share concerns and ideas with me, I share information about city decisions and processes, and I elevate issues to the City Manager and Council. Equally important, I help residents understand how to engage so their voices can be heard and influence decisions.

Too often, public meetings reflect only those who have the time to attend. Families juggling work and childcare, and young people starting out, are frequently absent. Their perspectives are essential, and I work to bring these voices into the conversation.

I’ve intentionally connected with residents beyond Council chambers — through neighborhood walkabouts, Coffee with Your City Councilmember gatherings, pizza meet-ups, informal presentations with community groups, and attending community events. These interactions allow me to learn directly from residents while helping demystify how local government works.

While Councilmembers do not direct staff, I have a role in educating staff about community concerns. I was pleased to have several staff members join me in the Uptown neighborhood to observe traffic, problematic intersections, pedestrian safety, and parking challenges firsthand. Seeing conditions on the ground and speaking with business owners added context that no report alone could provide.

Some constituent issues — curb paint refreshes, trash cleanup, and landscape improvements — may seem small, but they make a meaningful difference in daily life. Others, like affordable housing, job creation, corridor safety, and spaces for our kids, require sustained advocacy to move ideas into Council goals, priorities, and budgets.

Community participation can directly shape outcomes. One highlight was the Council’s unanimous 5-0 vote to invest in park facilities and expand field space for local youth, following strong engagement from sports parents at the Parks and Recreation Advisory Committee level and Council. Another was the Food Truck policy discussion, which led to an Ad Hoc Committee to develop clear, consistent recommendations. Notably, it was also the first time we offered concurrent translation, allowing more community members to fully participate. The process was productive, respectful, and informative and was a great example of good governance.

Looking ahead, we have important work — setting Council goals and adopting our city budget, which informs work priorities for the next 2-year cycle. These are meaningful opportunities for residents to provide input and shape the city’s direction. Public engagement doesn’t require expertise in municipal code — it begins with asking questions, sharing experience, engaging, and staying informed.

I am grateful to City staff for their expertise, commitment to the City, and patience in educating their newest Councilmember. I’m grateful to my colleagues for thoughtful dialogue, and most of all, I am grateful to the residents of District 1 and Paso Robles for your trust. We have much to be proud of and much work ahead. Local government works best when we all participate — and I hope more people will take part in shaping the future of Paso Robles.

Statement | Clarifying My Words Regarding Immigration Enforcement in the City (1.14.26)

Federal immigration enforcement came to Paso Robles. In December, I was notified by residents that they were in District 1. I went to observe so that I could see first-hand the activity and the response of our local police department. I posted about this on social media and this spurned a misleading story by a local online outlet which invited both negative and positive comments.

Listen to Public Comment (46:00) and My Statement (1:09) at the January 14, 2026 Council Meeting on the City YouTube Channel.

Below is my statement that I offered at City Council on January 14, 2026.

——————-

To be clear, I do not support or encourage interfering with law enforcement.

The online piece that spurred the outrage misrepresented my position in its headline and buried my actual words at the end of the article.

Here’s what I wrote: “I am so proud of all the volunteers and caring neighbors. If you hear the horns, whistles and bullhorns, go to them and bear witness.” To bear witness means to share one’s truth or experience. To bear witness means to observe first hand to provide testimony – to be a truth teller from first hand experience.

I learned that morning that there was possible federal immigration enforcement in town. As an elected, I have a responsibility to know what’s happening first hand. Just as I visit different areas to observe unsafe intersections, parking conflicts, stormwater concerns, and many other things, I went to a potential enforcement area to possibly observe.  

I am proud of how the officers and shift supervisors managed the morning, and I want to commend the Police Department and Chief for the planning and training that contributed to the favorable outcome. 

PRPD response was proportional, professional, and respectful. Officers did not cooperate nor impede with the Agents or protestors. The situation came and went without escalation or incident. 

I am not alone in my assessment. Others who were observing from a distance were also impressed by PRPD response. Thank you.

This is the value of bearing witness. First hand truth tellers - especially now - are key for developing public trust and protecting public safety.

I want everyone to understand that this misleading piece, unsurprisingly, provoked an ugly and dangerous response. I’ve been called the most vile names a woman can be called. One local business owner said I’m guilty of treason. Others continued to stir the pot even though they knew I did not say what I was accused of. This is dangerous and should not be tolerated.

I also received respectful and concerned communications which I gladly responded to, in addition to many supportive communications.

This whole incident is a reminder that as a community, we have different world views and opinions. But despite these differences, we are still neighbors, and we should not be painted as enemies. And we all have a responsibility to tell the truth.

As a leader, I am intentional about how I spend my time and energy, and the most important work happens in-person. Let’s build on our successes and common ground and continue to create the kind of community we want for our families and the next generations.  I’m proud of our city and honored to serve. 

Video Short | Celebrating Our 1st Year Anniversary (12.23.25)

It’s been a busy and productive year - thank you for all your support!

Budgets, Strategic Plans, and More

One of the significant responsibilities of the Council is to inform and adopt major planning documents for the City. These act as the roadmap for staff and inform budgeting priorities.

These are important! Without a strategic roadmap - developed with community input - it would be easy to get sidetracked and lose sight of the mid and long term vision.

Do you have an issue that your passionate about? See where it fits in to an existing planning document.

Remember to plug in to the often-overlooked planning workshops, because these will influence the City’s priorities moving forward.

Adopted Goals (2024-2026) ***

Budget Brief (2024-2026) ***

Operating & Capital Budget Report (2024-2026)

Economic Development Strategic Plan

Bicycle & Pedestrian Master Plan (2018) ***

Library Strategic Plan (2022-2026)

Recreation Services Strategic Plan (2022-2026)

Homelessness Strategic Plan (2024-2027)

Understanding the City’s Organization

Our City is a large organization with several departments: Community Services, Public Safety, Public Works, Community Development, Utilities, City Manager’s Office. Within these departments are divisions. And associated with various departments/divisions are commissions and advisory bodies.

When you have a concern or question, understanding the organization is helpful to inform where and how to direct your questions. Of course you can always reach out to me, and I can easily connect you to the appropriate staff.

Pizza with Kris & Accomplishments (10.19.25)

How to be effective? What does this mean and what does it look like? After all, I am only one vote, and I am not a magician. So figuring out how to create change has been a process. Some issues are relatively “simple”, most issues are not. The big issues require moving the ball down the field through education, advocacy and engagement. But I am settling into this position and better understand the rhythm of the City and the proper path for different issues. Read More

Pizza with Kris With Uptown Neighbors (10.18.2025)

Paso Robles Daily News | October 18, 2025

Councilmember Kris Beal is inviting Uptown residents to join her for an informal community gathering, “Pizza with Kris,” on Monday, Oct. 27, from 4:30 to 6 p.m. at Pizza Express, 3348 Spring St. The drop-in event is open to all community members, with free pizza available while supplies last. Beal said the gathering is meant to give neighbors an opportunity to meet their council representative and share ideas in a relaxed, family-friendly setting. Read More

Podcast | Get Real with Liz (8.30.25)

Enjoy this conversation about how local government works and how to advocate for the things you care about.

Cannabis, ECHO, Groundwater Basin, and More (8.18.25)

Tomorrow’s meeting has a few interesting items. There will be an presentation on the Utilities Department (L1), a request to purchase an armored rescue vehicle with Supplemental Law Enforcement Surplus Funds (P11), receipt of year end report from ECHO (Q1), and an update (what is the status quo) on cannabis (Q2).. Read More

Public Comment on a Council Agenda Item

Your voice matters. Public comment is one of the most direct ways residents can shape local decisions through education and persuasion. When community members speak up, it helps the Council (and community) better understand real-world impacts, hear a range of perspectives, and make more informed choices. Public input becomes part of the public record—creating transparency and helping the entire community understand the diversity of perspectives.

Ways to Provide Input

These methods are not mutually exclusive - you can submit written and in person comments for greater impact.

1. Submit Written Comments

Written comments are a great way to clearly organize your thoughts and ensure they are documented.

• Email your comments to cityclerk@prcity.com by noon on the day of the meeting (although earlier is better because it allows the Council more time to review)

• Include the agenda item number in the subject line

• Your comments will be:

  • Shared with Council Members

  • Included in the official public record

  • Posted online for community visibility

• Your email will be redacted

Written comments are a great way to clearly organize your thoughts and ensure they are documented.

2. Speak at the Meeting (In Person)

• Complete a speaker card, available near door. Hand it to staff near podium prior to speaking.

• Public comment is limited to 3 minutes per speaker - there is a light on the podium that will indicate when you’re approaching or reached 3 minutes.

• Address your comments to the Council

• Speak at the appropriate time:

  • General public comment → For items not on the agenda

  • Agenda items → When that item is being discussed

3. Call In During the Meeting

• If you are watching online (YouTube http://www.youtube.com/@prcitygov), you can provide comment by phone 805-865-PASO (7276).

• The Mayor will invite callers at designated times and the City Clerk will help facilitate the process

Tips for Effective Comments

To make your input as impactful as possible, be clear about your goal:

• Inform – Share facts, experiences, or context. Educate about your organization or invite Council to your event.

• Persuade – Explain your position and why it matters - include facts and personal impacts.

• Request action – Ask the Council to take a specific step - this should include inform and persuade.

Framework & Tone matters

Be helpful and respectful. Consider including positive comments with criticisms. Educating the public is different than educating the council and might warrant a different approach than talking to your friends. Understand your audience and your purpose and shape the conversation.

Food Trucks! (8.4.25)

Consider attending the Council meeting on Tuesday, August 5. This meeting will be great for newcomers and pros alike. A discussion addressing the Food Truck ordinance (adopted in October) will be interesting. Public works will give their monthly update (which is always informative). Other than that, the agenda is light.. Read More

Video Short | What Does a Councilmember Do? (6.15.25)

Enjoy this quick glimpse into my first 6 months!

Coffee with Kris offers residents chance to chat with councilwoman (3.19.25)

Paso Robles City Councilwoman Kris Beal will host “Coffee with Kris” at Common Grounds located in the Paso Marketwalk, located at 1825 Spring Street, on Saturday, March 22 from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. The informal gathering provides an opportunity for residents to meet Beal, ask questions, and share ideas. Learn More

Paso Groundwater Basin, Community Garden and More (2.28.25)

I’m staying busy with meetings with staff on Economic Development and roads, coffee with community members (thank you for coming!), connecting with community organizations/events (Welcome the Mexican Consul) and more!

Tomorrow (March 1) we’re reviving the Community Garden at Uptown Park at 10am - please come!  If you’re downtown, consider updating your Library Card when you’re there (it only takes 5 minutes). Read More

Paso Basin, Sunrise Villas Ribbon Cutting, and Coffee (2.17.25)

A lot of my time is spent researching issues, connecting with staff, formal briefings, and responding to constituents. But I’ve been thinking a lot about how I can be effective to elevate the issues I campaigned on — affordable housing, diverse economic base and jobs, and places and spaces for our youth. Read More

Water, Housing, Coffee & MLK (1.31.25)

My onboarding process continues, and I’m starting to find a rhythm with my different responsibilities. Here are a few updates on issues and ways to engage. Feel free to reach out to me at kbeal@prcity.com with questions. Emails are great because I’m able to loop in staff and we can get a sense of what the pressing questions are.  I also highly recommend subscribing to the biweekly CITY NEWSLETTER to get a great overview of all of the city’s work.. Read More

Paso Robles Councilmember Kris Beal Announces Office Hours (1.12.25)

Paso Robles, CA – Councilmember Kris Beal is inviting Paso Robles residents to join her for an informal community meeting series, “Coffee with Kris.” These Saturday morning gatherings provide an opportunity to meet Councilmember Beal, ask questions, share ideas, and discuss topics that matter most to the community. Read More

Swearing In & My First Month (1.12.25)

Now for the work. It’s been a busy first month, and the staff and council are gracious in my onboarding process. There are many opportunities for you to engage with local issues - below are some items on how you can get involved in this important work. Read More