Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Belmont public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
7 issues in taxes budget
ERP Replacement Project
Belmont's financial system hits end-of-life in 2029, and the city is starting a multi-year needs assessment to pick a replacement. Councilmembers pushed for off-the-shelf solutions over costly custom programming.
Measure Y Accountability
A resident urged the council to publish a specific, multi-year spending plan for the ~$7.1 million a year Measure Y would generate for the community center, arguing an audit alone doesn't guarantee the money is spent on promised priorities.
Comprehensive City Fee Modernization
Belmont is raising sewer rates 1% a year for three years and will collect roughly $21 million in sewer-related fees through your property tax bill. The typical household bill rises about $1.38 a month, and the 10% drought adjustment is being phased out.
Halloween Street Closure Fees
A resident asked the council to reconsider the jump in street-closure fees for the Messies Halloween block party, which rose from $100 to $300 last year.
Community Center Special Tax Ballot Measure
The council prepared the ground for a major community center rebuild — addressing aging infrastructure, seismic and accessibility issues — should voters pass the citizen-led Measure Y parcel tax in November. No construction commitment was made; staff will set up a design-build framework and explore a Project Labor Agreement.
November 3, 2026 Municipal Election Called
Belmont voters will choose a District 1 council member, a District 3 council member, and the mayor at-large in November, with San Mateo County running the election.
Fleet and Vehicle Replacements
The city will spend up to $233,263 to replace an aging Public Works truck and two police vehicles, including one totaled in a collision.