Greer Stone elected vice mayor after split council vote; nominees highlight differing experience

Greer Stone was elected vice mayor of Palo Alto on Jan. 5, 2026, after council members cast electronic ballots in a close vote. The clerk announced ballot distribution, tabulated results and directed Stone to the podium to be sworn in by Mary Hughes.

Council member Liu nominated Stone, citing Stone’s vote totals in the 2024 election cycle and experience leading on housing, mental health and regional work. Council member Lythcott Haims nominated Keith Reykdal, praising his commission experience, finance and planning work, and pragmatic approach on housing and retail districts.

Both nominees spoke briefly. Stone said the vice mayor role is a ‘quiet but important’ position focused on continuity and partnership with the mayor and pledged to serve if elected. Reykdal said he would continue to focus on community service and pragmatic problem solving.

The clerk later read how members cast their ballots: votes for Stone came from Laowing (outgoing mayor), Lou, Stone and Venker (four votes); votes for Reykdal (listed as Rechdahl/Reykdal in the record) came from Burt, Lythcott Haims and Reykdal (three votes). The clerk announced Stone’s nomination had passed and Stone repeated the oath of office.

Council members acknowledged that choosing between two qualified candidates was difficult; endorsements emphasized different strengths—Stone’s prior mayoral experience and partnership with the incoming mayor, and Reykdal’s commission and committee background. Public commenters for the vice mayor selection included residents who voiced support for one candidate or the other.

Stone’s installation as vice mayor completes the council leadership team for 2026 with Venker serving as mayor.