Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in San Mateo County public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
13 issues with high priority
El Niño Emergency Preparedness
The county proclaimed a local emergency for the upcoming El Niño season to establish an interdepartmental response task force and prepare for severe weather.
Data Center Zoning Regulations
The board directed planning staff to study zoning regulations and potential bans on new data center construction in unincorporated areas to address energy and water demands.
Farm Labor Housing Water Systems and Wells Regulation
Environmental Health is introducing updated ordinances to establish ongoing water quality monitoring for unmonitored farm labor housing water systems after previous tests found e. coli presence.
Inclusionary Housing Zoning Updates
The county updated its zoning regulations and design review process to establish objective standards, streamline Bayside permits, and add bird-friendly window treatments and lighting rules.
Regional Transit Measure and Election Consolidation
The board called a special election for a regional transit measure to be consolidated with the November 2026 general election.
Sheriff's Office Budget Deficit and Overtime Oversight
Public commenters and community representatives urged the board to establish an ongoing Inspector General for the Sheriff's Office to ensure accountability and rebuild public trust.
Autonomous Robot Ordinance Implementation and Regional Competitiveness
The county is introducing a new ordinance to regulate autonomous delivery and service robots, establishing permits, safety shutdown switches, hazard fees, and worker displacement protections.
Prohibition of Immigration Detention Facilities
The board enacted an emergency temporary ban on building or expanding any new detention or correctional facilities across unincorporated parts of the county.
Horizon Palm Recovery Center Siting and Funding
Supervisors approved a 10% local match of $2.5 million and a ground lease to help establish Horizon's 69-bed Palm Recovery Center in Burlingame.
Juvenile Justice Prevention and Reentry Services
The county approved twelve contracts totaling over $14.3 million with community-based organizations to provide youth prevention, intervention, and reentry services.
Immigrant Legal Services Funding
The board approved $5.87 million in Measure K funding for the Legal Aid Society of San Mateo County to provide affirmative, rapid response, and removal defense legal services.
Jail Communications and Physical Mail Restrictions
Dozens of residents and advocates testified against the county jail's contract with a Florida-based digital scanning service, demanding the return of physical mail.
County Charter Review Committee Formation
The board reviewed recommendations from the Charter Review Committee, advancing proposals for an independent redistricting commission and governance updates to the November ballot.