|
|
|
|
The City of San Mateo celebrates the rich diversity among our community and stands firmly against all forms of racism, anti-immigrant sentiment, xenophobia and implicit bias. As we all reflect on the events of the last few weeks, many of us do so with great sadness but also great hope. Profound sadness comes from the senseless and tragic murder of George Floyd, but hope comes from the response we have seen throughout the country as people of all races and all backgrounds come together to peacefully protest and demand change.
We know we are hurting as a community and as a country. In the midst of an ongoing pandemic and economic recession, we are now confronted with the legacy of the lack of progress we as a nation have made in addressing racism in our society and institutions. San Mateo does not need to accept this legacy as our own. We must recognize we are stronger as a community that is inclusive of all people, regardless of skin color, gender, sexual orientation or ethnicity.
Respect, integrity, transparency and inclusivity are core values of our organization. We know there’s a long road ahead to effect meaningful systematic change and create a more just system for all. We want our community to know – we’re here to listen and carefully reflect on actions we can take to contribute to a better San Mateo for all.
|
|
|
|
Police Accountability - Our Policies & ProceduresThe San Mateo Police Department’s is sworn to protect and preserve our community's quality of life. Our Police Department prides itself on developing strong relationships with our community, and we recognize recent events across the nation have led to a number of questions about local policing and our policies.
Our Police Department will host another Virtual Town Hall to discuss these issues, and hear from a panel of experts and community leaders. Join them from 3-4 p.m. on Wednesday, June 17 on Zoom (password: 128145). You can also watch the livestream on YouTube.
We remain transparent and accessible when it comes to answering those questions, and have created an Accountability web page that centralizes information on policies and training within our department. This includes the six pillars of modern policing for law enforcement agencies. We are motivated every day to the constant improvement that keeps the San Mateo Police Department one of the most professional and progressive policing organizations around. Learn more on our Accountability web page.
|
|
|
|
|
|
Outdoor DiningNow that outdoor dining is allowed by the County Health Orders, you may start to see some no parking signs in areas of Downtown San Mateo as we work to create outdoor dining spaces! We’re temporarily transforming some on-street parking into parklets where visitors can enjoy a meal from one of our delicious downtown restaurants.
The no parking in select areas will go into effect Tuesday, so that we can install barricades to make protected spaces for outdoor dining. We’re still working out the details and collaborating with restaurants on preferred locations, so not all areas with no parking signs will necessarily be turned into a parklet.
Restaurants will need a permit to use these common areas if they wish to serve alcohol. Restaurants and customers using these areas are required to follow the County Health Officer’s orders and other health & safety mandates.
Some on-street spaces may be reserved for short-term parking to help make pickups and deliveries easier. Visitors wishing to dine or spend more time downtown are encouraged to park in one of our garages. We’re also considering the possibility of street closures in the Downtown. You may also start to see parklets in other parts of the City and popup dining in the parking areas of neighborhood shopping centers.
Outdoor Dining Requirements - Tables must be arranged to ensure that no customer is sitting within six feet of any other customer at a separate table. Patrons at a single table are limited to no more than six, and they must be from the same household or living unit.
- Patrons are required to wear a face covering except when sitting at a table.
- Facilities that open for outdoor dining must offer curbside pickup, takeaway, and/or delivery service alternatives.
- Restaurants cannot block sidewalks and must follow Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) guidelines.
- Alcohol may be sold to patrons with a meal, but it may not be sold independently. Bar areas must remain closed to customers.
Review the Health Order or call 2-1-1 for information about what businesses are allowed to operate.
Want to report a health order violation at a business? Please call our Code Enforcement Division at (650) 522-7011.
San Mateo County May Apply for COVID Variance The San Mateo County Board of Supervisors is considering asking the state for a variance that would allow the County to further align with the state’s Resilience Roadmap. San Mateo County Health Officer Dr. Scott Morrow and the Board may file an attestation that the County has met readiness criteria to reopen certain sectors of the local economy. Currently, the County does not allow dine-in restaurants, hair salons and barber shops, museums, gyms and fitness centers, and hotels for tourism and travel to open locally. If approved by the state, the variance would allow Dr. Morrow to issue a new health order that, when he deems appropriate, could open additional businesses with restrictions that may include social distancing, face coverings and additional health precautions. Visit the County’s website for more information and updates. |
|
|
|
|
|
Prevent the Spread and Recreate SafelyWe're looking at another beautiful weekend and while we understand the warm weather and sunshine are calling you to enjoy the outdoors, please remember to recreate safely and following the Health Order!
San Mateo County Parks is reopening more parks, parking lots and restrooms. Coyote Point will reopen on June 15th, check out the County Parks webpage for a list of all open parks that will be open 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. In accordance with current San Mateo County Health Orders dog parks, playgrounds, picnic areas, and visitor centers remain closed.
Please be considerate of fellow park users:
- Make sure you and members of your household maintain 6 feet of distance between you and others.
- Carry a face covering and wear it when you can’t achieve physical distance
- Fast walkers, joggers and cyclists should advise when passing and slow down and, or move to other side of trail to create distance between you and others
|
|
|
|
|
|
City Hall Reopening We’ve reopened City Hall for limited public access Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to noon, and 1–5 p.m. We’ve made a number of changes to regular operations to ensure the health and safety of City staff and our customers. All visitors must follow Social Distancing Protocols. This includes wearing face masks at all times, washing their hands or using hand sanitizer, not visiting City Hall if you are sick, and not shaking hands. Visitors may only enter the facility on the O’Farrell Street entrance and must exit on the 20th Avenue side. Visitors must also register for an appointment and/or check in with greeting staff in the lobby. Visitors must then wait outside until they are notified by text message that it is their turn. In effort to minimize potential exposure to COVID-19, a the City provides a number of services online.
Make a Difference & Serve on a Commission Care about San Mateo? Help influence the future of your community by applying to serve on a City Commission. Applications are now open for three vacancies on local commissions. Community involvement in local government plays an important and active role in the City of San Mateo. The City Council seeks participation from its diversely skilled citizens and encourages all who are interested to apply for a position on the: - Park and Recreation Commission (partial term ending 6/10/23)
- Senior Citizens Commission (term ending 6/10/24)
- Sustainability and Infrastructure Commission (term ending 6/10/24)
Applications and more information are available online, or you can also contact the City Clerk’s Office at (650) 522-7040 or polds@cityofsanmateo.org.
Paying for City Services? Fees Begin July 1 for Using Credit & Debit CardsStarting July 1, customers who use a credit or debit card to make payments with the City of San Mateo will be subject to service fees.Companies that process credit or debit card transactions typically charge about 2-3% of the billed amount. The fee is paid directly to the company processing the transaction, and is not charged by the City. Customers can avoid these fees by paying with alternate methods such as cash, check or e-check.
Customers will be notified of the card fees prior to payment on online portals, with signs at City facilities, and when making payments over the phone.
Examples of City services that are subject to credit card service fees include: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
SSMC Virtual Fundraiser:
June 12 - 19Sustainable San Mateo County (SSMC) is a nonprofit dedicated to accelerating sustainability in San Mateo County. Instead of their typical in-person event, SSMC will host a Virtual Auction on Friday, June 19, 6-7:30 p.m. that will feature State Senator Jerry Hill as auctioneer. Silent auction items were posted on June 12 and both silent and live auctions will close on June 19. All proceeds will benefit the SSMC and their environmental efforts. Visit the auction website to view silent auction items and to tune into the live auction.
|
|
|
|
Energy Efficiency Workshop - June 19 With all of us sheltering in place, there is a need to make our homes as healthy as possible to support the well-being of ourselves and our families. Building science concepts and resources can help improve indoor air quality and the comfort of our homes.
The Bay Area Regional Energy Network (BayREN) is partnering with the County of San Mateo Office of Sustainability to host a FREE online workshop open to all county residents on Friday, June 19, noon-1 p.m. At this workshop, you can hear from indoor air quality scientists and local building science experts about the theory and practice of improving your home’s performance and using energy efficiently. Then, speakers will share information about local government programs that can provide assistance and rebates to help you reach your goals.
Learn more and RSVP here to secure your spot: https://bayrenhomeperformance.eventbrite.com
|
|
|
|
Blood Drive - June 30 Local blood banks are facing shortages and continue to rely on volunteer donations, which is why the City of San Mateo is partnering with a local blood bank, Vitalant, to host a blood drive on Tuesday, June 30, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Senior Center. Healthy, eligible donors are encouraged to make a donation to ensure there’s lifesaving blood on the shelves for those who need it most. The City of San Mateo and Vitalant will work under strict social distancing rules and will follow rigorous safety and disinfection protocols. To accommodate social distancing, we are asking all donors to schedule an appointment online. Review donor Eligibility Information online and please call 1-800-289-4923 or email eligible2donate@vitalant.org if you have any questions.
|
|
|
|
Grocery Shop for Seniors You can help seniors in your community remain independent by providing weekly shopping assistance. We’re looking for volunteers to assist by shopping and delivering groceries to seniors in San Mateo. With older adults at greater risk of COVID-19, healthy volunteers can make a huge difference today!
If you are interested, please apply using our online application. Please note, all volunteer candidates are subjected to a live background test. If you have any questions about the position, please contact Amber Shong at alshong@cityofsanmateo.org.
|
|
|
|
PAL FundraiserSince the start of Shelter in Place, San Mateo Police Activity League (PAL) staff and police officers have provided a safety net for many families in our community who are struggling with the loss of income by assisting them with much needed food, supplies, and resources. Now, you can help them give back by donating to their Food for Families Fundraiser. PAL’s mission to “Build the Bond between Cops and Kids” has never been more important than it is today. Because of our generous donors, support agencies and volunteers, we have now provided over 1,750 well-stocked boxes of food and essential items to our community. Thank you for helping PAL feed families and serve our community during challenging time. One in every five people in America are food insecure due to COVID-19. Help PAL reach their goal of raising $35,000 to continue distributing food throughout the summer. In these times of uncertainty, our caring and giving PAL supporters have demonstrated how the power of generosity fosters community spirit. Your continued support is needed and appreciated – now more than ever!
Share Your Signs of Hope Our community has been incredible lifting each other up and sharing messages of positivity as we all cope with sheltering in place. We've received an incredible batch of photo submissions for our Signs of Hope Campaign, and we'd love to see yours, too!
We're collecting and posting pictures that represent the kind, caring, and supportive community that surrounds us here in our city. Thank you notes, window paintings, neighbors helping neighbors. Look around you and send us a picture of anything that symbolizes the resilience of our community and amazing city. Email your picture(s) to: socialmedia@cityofsanmateo.org.
We know life in San Mateo is quite different than what we’re all used to right now, but our community is strong when we come together and support each other. Check out some of the Signs of Hope below, and on our Facebook Page. Stay tuned for more as we continue to share the inspirational messages and signs of hope surrounding San Mateo!
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Summer Fun with Parks & Rec Summer camps began Monday, June 22. Our Parks and Recreation staff are altering the locations, duration and model of our 2020 Summer Camps to ensure our programs are fun, engaging and most importantly safe. All activities in all camps will follow current health mandates and include temperature taking upon arrival, frequent hand washing, and social distancing requirements. This summer we’re hosting our programs outdoors at various City parks. Please be aware you may see areas with increased activity and we appreciate your cooperation. Visit www.cityofsanmateo.org/summercamps for more information!
|
|
|
|
|
|
Residential Street Sweeping Returned Monday, June 15Street cleaners returned to their normal schedule on Monday, June 15. Please remember to move your car on your designated street cleaning day so that street cleaners can cover as much ground as possible. Check the Street Cleaning Map and enter your address to see the schedule. You can also sign up for email reminders or add the schedule to your calendar on the Street Cleaning website. Thank you to our neighbors for their cooperation and patience.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Share on Facebook
Share on Twitter
Share via Email
