Inge Tiegel Doherty

The San Carlos Downtown Streetscape Master Plan establishes a robust public space network in the downtown core, positioning it as the city's 'living room' and a vibrant hub for socializing, shopping, dining, and entertainment. Guided by principles of Equity and Resilience, Mobility & Connectivity, Character & Identity, and Downtown Vibrancy, the plan outlines strategies for enhancing pedestrian experiences, balancing transportation networks, and integrating cultural and ecological design themes through streetscape improvements and programmed activities. The overarching goal is to foster pedestrian-friendliness, social vitality, and economic vibrancy for the downtown's future.

The meeting commenced with the Pledge of Allegiance. The agenda order was modified to accommodate public speakers on item 11b, moving it under new business. Council communications included updates on the Rosner House celebrating 30 years of operation, an announcement regarding the Healthy Cities Program recognition evening, and promotion of the Vertical Challenge at the Hiller Aviation Museum. Vice Mayor Garcelli provided updates on informational sessions for bidders on the new Garbage Contract and the installation of new police sergeants and officers for the city. A Fire Board meeting ratified a budget previously approved by the Council and Belmont Council. Liaison reports covered a meeting with the Parks and Rec Commission chair and congratulations for the success of Hometown Days. Council business included the reappointment of Joanna Watson to the Planning Commission and the presentation of a plaque to outgoing Parks and Rec commissioner Carol Taylor. A presentation was made by the Parks and Recreation Foundation of San Carlos for the Burton Park playground renovation project, presenting a check of $303,000. Public comment included discussions opposing the signing of a Mayor's letter regarding global warming and concerns about a contract with the Bay Area Air Quality Management Board regarding delivery timelines. Unfinished business focused on authorizing the Mayor to sign either the U.S. Mayor's climate protection letter or a San Carlos climate protection letter, with staff providing background information and noting that California has not adopted similar standards.

The meeting began with the pledge of allegiance. A key discussion item reported from closed session was the unanimous decision to appoint Nile Blackburn as the interim city manager, effective January 17, 2026. The council then considered several actions related to the Downtown Specific Plan, including approving an addendum to the 2017 General Plan Reset Environmental Impact Report, amending the General Plan land use map and circulation elements, and introducing an ordinance to codify the plan into the zoning map. Public input was received regarding the decline in available public tennis courts, to which staff committed to following up. The presentation on the Downtown Specific Plan detailed land use changes, such as minor adjustments to seven use classifications and a potential density increase for the SAMR site (though the Planning Commission recommended against the increase). Development standards modifications included increasing the minimum ground floor height. Policy discussions focused on strengthening ground-floor commercial uses along key corridors and potentially restricting residential uses on the ground floor in core areas. The council also received guidance on next steps regarding a potential policy to incentivize ground-floor retail, which was not yet formally part of the specific plan.

The regular meeting covered procedural items, including the approval of the October 6, 2025 minutes and closing public comment. The primary focus was a public hearing regarding Item 7A, the Downtown Specific Plan. This involved consideration of four resolutions recommending the City Council adopt an addendum to the 2045 General Plan EIR, amend the General Plan Land Use Map and related elements, and introduce ordinances to amend the zoning map and formally adopt the Downtown Specific Plan. The presentation detailed that the Downtown Specific Plan serves as a regulatory policy document guiding future development until 2045, aiming to ensure an inclusive and vibrant downtown. Key discussion points included balancing community desires (e.g., more public art, outdoor seating, landscaping) against concerns (e.g., loss of parklets, fiscal feasibility). A specific focus was placed on the property at 1250 San Carlos Avenue, owned by the San Mateo Transit District, with a proposal to increase the minimum density designation to leverage housing potential, citing state housing element strategies.

The meeting primarily focused on commemorating the 10th anniversary of the passing of former Mayor Omar Ahmad through the reading of a proclamation. Several former council members and city staff shared anecdotes highlighting Mayor Ahmad's positive impact, his role in difficult budgetary decisions, his commitment to public service, and his visionary approach, especially regarding the transition of the Police Department to the Sheriff's Office and the restructuring of the Fire Department, which resulted in significant financial savings for the city. Discussions also touched upon his known connections in the technology field and his overall memorable personality.