About the San Mateo City Council

As the City's legislative body, the San Mateo City Council represents the entire community and is empowered by the City Charter to formulate Citywide policy. San Mateo has five (5) Council Members. Each serves at large, meaning each is elected by the entire citizenry to represent the whole city, rather than just a particular district or region of the city. Council Members are elected to 4-year terms with a maximum of 3 consecutive terms. The Mayor rotates each December among all council members. The City of San Mateo operates under a Council/Manager form of government (learn more).


Strategic Plan
The council is the legislative body, represents the entire community and is empowered by the City Charter to formulate City Policy and developing a yearly Strategic Plan. Council has completed and adopted their 2023-2024 City Council Priorities.




Learn more

  1. How can I contact the Mayor or a member of the City Council?
  2. When, where and at what time are City Council meetings held?
  3. How can I find out what's on the City Council agenda?
  4. Are the City Council meetings televised?
  5. Where can I find City Council meeting minutes?
  6. How do I get a copy of a City Council agenda report?
  7. How long do Council Members serve?
  8. How does the City Council operate?
  9. What are Study Sessions and when are they held?