Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in East Palo Alto public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
4 issues in taxes budget with high priority
Measure JJ Anti-Displacement Program
The family towing business, which serves the city, was given three months to leave its Ontario Street site and asked the council for help finding a new location or extending its tenancy.
Mayor combining State of the City with candidate forum
Residents and two councilmembers blasted the mayor's plan to hold his State of the City address alongside a council candidate forum — with some candidates never notified. Critics call it an appearance of city endorsement; Romero wants it agendized for a vote.
Structural budget deficit
The city is spending about $4.7 million more than it takes in from its general fund next year, and recurring costs are growing faster than tax revenue. Staff say reserves can bridge the gap for now, but one-time federal money and other stopgaps are running out — meaning harder choices are coming.
FY 2026-27 city budget
The city faces a structural deficit and the budget adoption was pushed to June 23 after the long housing debate.