San Mateo · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in San Mateo public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Bay Meadows Phase II buildout and annual compliance review
The last two Bay Meadows blocks — two office buildings leased to Roblox and a 67-unit apartment building — are under construction, with completion expected in 2028-2029. The commission found the owner complied in good faith with the development agreement. About 3,300 people already work at Bay Meadows, expected to grow to roughly 5,000.
Community Development Block Grant annual report (CAPER)
The annual report on how federal CDBG money was spent in the 2025-26 program year was up for a public hearing. If adopted by the City Council, it goes to HUD — and the report shapes how federal community-development dollars flow locally.
Self-storage facility and historic buildings at 922-980 S. Claremont Street
A new self-storage facility will preserve and rehabilitate three 1930s PG&E buildings, a rare large-scale historic rehabilitation in San Mateo. Speakers asked for a commemorative plaque, which staff said may become part of a future Historic Resources Commission plaque program.
County Services and Housing
San Mateo County is considering a big spending spree, potentially dropping $13 million on a new treatment facility and the Pride Center. They're also eyeing e-bikes and a sales tax hike, all while the housing market continues its crazy rollercoaster ride.
Missing-middle for-sale townhomes at Pioneer Court
A vacant 1960s office building would become ten large for-sale townhomes (three to five bedrooms) with two-car garages and one moderate-income unit — rare family-sized ownership housing in San Mateo. Critics noted the project leans hard on state density bonus waivers and leaves almost no yard or trees.