City Council 5.26.26 Regular Meeting

The City Council of San Carlos held a regular meeting on May 26, 2026, which included a significant presentation by MidPen Housing regarding a proposed 95-unit, 100% affordable housing development at 626 Walnut Street. The project, in partnership with San Mateo County, involves state density bonus waivers and aims to meet various affordable housing goals, including preferences for city and county public employees and extremely low-income households. The council discussed zoning waivers, parking, community engagement, and supportive housing populations. Additionally, the council adopted a technology disruption policy pursuant to Senate Bill 707, addressing remote meeting access disruptions. Other procurement-related topics included the city’s climate mitigation and adaptation plan (C-MAP) implementation report highlighting energy efficiency and EV infrastructure projects, and a discussion on the electric leaf blower rebate program with considerations for a potential future ban on gas-powered leaf blowers. The council also reviewed workforce vacancies and recruitment trends, noting a low vacancy rate and high retention. Motions were passed to appoint members to the Youth Advisory Council and to adopt the technology disruption policy. The meeting featured robust community engagement and policy discussions impacting future procurement and development activities in the city.