San Carlos · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in San Carlos public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Affordable housing at Cherry Street Commons and new proposals
Cherry Street Commons is nearly done and expects its first residents in December, with more housing proposed at 626 Walnut Street, 1562 El Camino Real, and the F Street apartments. The city is partnering with nonprofits and developers to serve seniors, lower-income families, and residents with intellectual or developmental disabilities.
MHA Supportive Housing at F Street and El Camino Real
The Mental Health Association of San Mateo County wants to build a four-story, 20-unit permanent supportive housing building for single adults experiencing homelessness and serious mental illness. The council is enthusiastic and the formal application is expected at the end of August under SB 35 streamlining.
626 Walnut Street Affordable Housing Development
Council Member Dugan raised concerns that the MidPen Housing project on Walnut Street would eliminate ground-floor retail and that streamlined, council-exempt developments get too little public visibility. The council set a May 26 presentation and wants a new early-notification policy.
Downtown Revitalization Construction Support
Harrington Park construction starts April 6, with the bigger Centennial Plaza project in 2027. The new Downtown Prosperity Team laid out a communications blitz and a project list to keep businesses alive — coffee chats, parking permits, alley improvements, a possible shuttle and entertainment zone. Councilmembers offered to walk the beat themselves and asked for more parking enforcement money.