City of South San Francisco

The meeting included agenda item reviews, staff announcements, and presentations. Library staff announced an upcoming Lunar New Year event and discussed potential layout changes for increased attendance. A presentation highlighted the "Brain Expirations" program benefiting UCSF Children's Hospital, involving letter writing to cancer patients. The Police Association invited attendees to their annual St. Patrick's Day dinner. A significant portion of the meeting recognized January as National Human Trafficking Prevention Month, involving the presentation of a proclamation to the founder of Justice at Last, Rose Mukard. The Police Department also presented on its HEAT (Human Enforcement and Apprehension Team) unit's efforts in combating human trafficking, including recent recoveries and arrests. Council comments included reflections on a recent council retreat and announcements regarding community events like a senior dance board swearing-in and an upcoming town hall hosted by the Vice Mayor. The Vice Mayor also offered condolences regarding recent deaths related to federal immigration enforcement actions.

The meeting featured several announcements and presentations. Staff announcements covered the closure of city offices for Martin Luther King Jr. Day, an update on the Youth in Government program accepting applications, and details regarding the City Council strategic planning workshop scheduled for January 24th. The Economic Development Manager announced the 2026 South San Francisco Lunar New Year night market to be held on February 20th downtown on Maple Avenue. The council took time to commemorate the passing of two recent retirees from the city: Sylvia Sakuro Portillo, who worked in Human Resources for 27 years, and Edward John Parazzi, a 37-year veteran of Public Works Maintenance. Council members shared comments, including congratulations for local officials appointed to county roles, a discussion on the effect of medical cuts on school districts, and recognition for Kosina Milonga restaurant. Councilmember Flores reported on holiday celebrations, including a thank you event for families served by the Promotas program and a celebration of Las Posadas. Additionally, council members welcomed the new City Manager and recognized the quiet retirement of Dave Bach House from Public Works after 31 years of service. The main presentation involved Curtis Chan and Ruben Abberta from San Mateo County Health regarding the Social Determinance of Health work group and its action plan for the Community Health Improvement Plan.

The meeting featured a staff report and discussion regarding State Assembly Bill 1033, which allows Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) to be sold separately through a condominium conversion process. The commission discussed the state-mandated requirements for opting into this law and potential additional local provisions, such as owner occupancy requirements and first right of refusal for displaced tenants, referencing examples from other jurisdictions like San Jose, Berkeley, and Santa Cruz. Concerns were raised regarding the complexity of condo conversion processes, including CC&Rs, HOA formation, property tax allocation, and insurance responsibilities for detached units. There was also a brief mention of development impact fees for new ADUs and the recommendation that staff work with 21 elements to develop a potential local ordinance amendment.

The City of South San Francisco's Age-Friendly Action Plan (2026-2029) serves as a comprehensive roadmap to create an inclusive, accessible, and supportive community for residents of all ages, with a particular focus on older adults. The plan is structured around nine key domains: Outdoor Spaces and Buildings, Transportation, Housing, Social Participation, Communication and Information, Respect and Social Inclusion, Civic Participation and Employment, Community Support and Health Services, and Emergency Services. It outlines strategic goals, objectives, and actions to develop policies, programs, and infrastructure that promote active aging, enhance the quality of life for older adults, and foster a resilient environment where all generations can thrive, retain independence, and maintain their health.

The City Council meeting included announcements from staff regarding holiday closures for city offices and the library. The council discussed a fiscal year 2025-26 action plan update, covering housing and supportive services, zoning text amendments, park development, senior services, a zoning study for retail, and a vacant storefronts pilot program. Updates were provided on the El Camino Rail mobility plan and the enterprise resource planning system. The council also addressed business license requirements and compliance. Tributes were given to community members who had recently passed away, and a certificate was presented to a centenarian in recognition of her contributions to the community.