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.
Downtown Parklet Program Extension and 700 Block of Laurel
Longtime residents are pushing the city to reopen the 700 block of Laurel Street to cars, arguing the pandemic-era pedestrian plaza is hurting nearby businesses and that other Bay Area cities reopened years ago.
Restricting oversize vehicle parking on city streets
Roughly 15-20 RVs park long-term on east-side commercial streets, drawing complaints from businesses about parking, trash, and safety. The council wants a citywide RV parking ban with exceptions, higher fines than the current $50 citation, and a fix for the $3,500 tow release fee.
$46 Million Street Repair Investment
Councilmembers McDowell and Rak praised the public works team as paving crews work across town — a $44 million, five-year investment in smoother streets and safer sidewalks. Some residents, like those on El Sereno Drive, feel their streets have been overlooked.
Parks Master Plan and trail expansions
San Carlos now has a 20-year roadmap for its parks — about $90 million in wish-list improvements including an aquatic center at Laureola, a pump track at Arguello, more pickleball, and inclusive playgrounds. Nothing is funded yet, so the real test comes at budget time.
Tobacco Retailer Permit Zoning Update
The city wants smoke shops to get the required San Mateo County health permit before opening, and is adding that requirement to the zoning code so it's flagged early. Enforcement has been a problem — Sergeant Baker said most local smoke shops lack permits and have racked up hundreds of thousands in unpaid fines.
Winter Storm and Flood Preparedness
With a strong El Niño expected, the Council agreed to a public presentation on the city's storm preparations, including a joint appearance with OneShoreline.