San Carlos · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in San Carlos public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
$84 Million Sales Tax Criticism
The Council voted to send a half-cent general sales tax to voters on November 3, 2026. It would raise about $6 million a year for 14 years for general city purposes like streets, parks, and public safety. Supporters say it keeps local dollars local; opponents worry about the total tax rate nearing 10% and impacts on small businesses.
Measure G spending plan accountability
A Zoom commenter challenged the Council over donations to the Yes on Measure G campaign and the lack of a detailed spending plan for the estimated $84 million, 14-year measure.
Teamsters Labor Agreement
The Council met in closed session to discuss contract negotiations with Teamsters Local 856, which represents freight checkers, clerical employees and helpers. The outcome could eventually shape city labor costs and employee terms, but nothing reportable happened at this meeting.
Childcare Grant Program Rules Update
San Carlos is spending childcare impact fees on grants to local providers, with this round adding 80-87 new spaces. The council debated capping awards per owner versus per location and how much policy to make on the fly.
Structural Budget Deficits and Mid-Cycle Budget
San Mateo County says the state is shorting local governments on vehicle license fee backfill — a $119 million countywide gap this year, roughly $2.3 million hitting San Carlos. That's real money for parks, libraries, and public safety, and the state left it out of this year's budget entirely. County leaders are organizing cities, schools and nonprofits to fight back, with a press conference April 7.
2026 Strategic Plan adoption
The council's roadmap for the year is now official, with downtown revitalization as the top priority. It also adds new work on fire risk assessment, hazard mitigation, parking reform, an East Side transportation plan, and selecting a community/aquatic center site.
City Sponsorship of Community Foundation Annual Gala
Councilmember Dugan proposed the city give $5,000 to the Community Foundation's 2026 gala, but other members argued the city already supports the foundation through a $2 million endowment and $40,000 in annual grants. The item was tabled, with members suggesting a broader policy on sponsoring community events.