New Leadership, Familiar Challenges

The Moraga City Council closed out 2025 with a ceremonial passing of the gavel—but not before residents reminded their elected officials that two of the town's thorniest issues, housing affordability and development transparency, aren't going anywhere. Council Member Kerry Hillis takes over as Mayor for 2026 with a mandate to move from planning to action, particularly on the question of who can afford to live in this affluent Lamorinda community.

• Kerry Hillis unanimously elected Mayor; Lisa Maglio named Vice Mayor for 2026.

• Outgoing Mayor Steve Woehleke presents year-in-review highlighting low crime, wildfire preparedness gains, and progress on the town's state-mandated housing element.

• Residents voice frustration over lack of transparency on a proposed 13-home-plus-13-ADU project on Camino Pablo.

• Public commenter urges town to prioritize affordable housing over luxury development: "What we need is affordable housing."

• Town honors retiring Public Works Director for securing roughly $10 million in grants, including funds for St. Mary's Road improvements.

Why it matters: The mayor sets the council's agenda priorities and represents Moraga in regional bodies. Hillis signaled that 2026 will be about translating plans into results—especially on housing costs.