Councilmember· 2022-11-01 - 2026-12-01
Sara McDowell
San Carlos
About
Sara McDowell's campaign centers on fiscal conservatism, notably taking a stance against increasing local sales taxes. Her platform also engages with key local issues such as housing developments as she contends for a seat on the San Carlos City Council.
Campaign promises (1)
- taxesSara McDowell opposes the proposed sales tax increase.Related votes
Voice
- Meetings spoken in
- 18
- Total speaking time
- 2:32:39
- Avg per meeting
- 8:29
- Segments
- 1994
Want every word McDowell has said?
The OpenCity MCP for Claude.ai answers questions like “what has McDowell said about housing this year” with one prompt — full speaking history, with YouTube timestamps.
Top issues during term (15)(Public Safety)
Restricting oversize vehicle parking on city streets
The city has twice paid a $3,500 tow release fee after 30 days, and the current $50 fine is widely unpaid.
Community mediation services partnership
The proposed contract was $20,000 annually; council members signaled a $5,000 pilot is more appropriate.
Flock ALPR Camera Contract and Privacy
It's totally free to download and use, though city resources benefit from faster emergency response times.
BP I SPE, LLC vs. City of San Carlos
Unknown — litigation costs and exposure were not disclosed.
Regulation of E-Bikes and Electric Conveyances
No immediate cost; future enforcement and education programs could carry costs.
Sidewalk Vending Regulation Update
Limited enforcement tools — fines are capped and must be waivable under state law.
County Emergency Preparedness and Hazmat Funding
About $4,000 per year for five years in additional county assessment.
Sheriff's Services Contract and Overtime Priorities
FY 2026-27 payment of $14,455,499, offset by a $2,059,325 CalPERS credit and $700,000 in prior-year savings.
Pedestrian Safety at Arundel Elementary
Police services annual report
Technology Disruption Policy for Public Meetings
None — no additional funding needed.
El Sereno Drive Street Safety
Residents estimate roughly 100-150 feet of repaving per side is needed; Public Works says it can't act without allocated funds.
Crestview-Hallmark Emergency Access Gate
San Carlos will pay about $22,500 of the estimated $45,000 project cost.
AED access and CPR awareness
New Chief of Police Services
Decisions during term (1)
Recorded while McDowell was in office — not necessarily decisions they moved, spoke to, or voted on.
Voting record (0)(Public Safety)
No votes found matching Public Safety.