City Council 11.9.26 Regular Meeting

The City of San Carlos City Council/Housing Authority regular meeting was called to order on November 9, 2026 (metadata lists November 10). The Community Foundation reported awarding $160,000 to 21 local nonprofits this year, with $200,000 anticipated for the next grant cycle; these are foundation grants, not City procurement awards. San Mateo County Libraries highlighted its new Book Mobile, which cost $748,000 and received support from library friends groups, along with new meeting spaces and community programs. No new library purchase or contract award was presented for Council approval. A resident also requested an early-2027 public discussion of the 700 block Phase 1B project’s updated scope, schedule, and reported $20 million estimate; Council took no action on that request.

The main policy and spending discussion concerned whether to prohibit the use of gas-powered leaf blowers. Staff presented existing rebate efforts, enforcement considerations, and research on other cities. Council generally directed staff to return with a proposed ordinance, outreach and implementation plan, and budget needs, with October 1 discussed as a possible effective date; the transcript does not record a formal vote. Members also supported further consideration of expanding rebates, including potential support for landscapers and other businesses, but no expansion amount was approved. The consent calendar was approved, though the transcript does not clearly identify its items. No contract awards or bid approvals were identified.