Government watch

• Garbage rates in Millbrae will rise this year after the City Council approved the update on Tuesday. Rates were most recently updated in late 2005. Increases mean an additional $30,000 per year for the city’s general fund franchise fee. Fees will increase 8.5 percent for residential; 6.1 percent for commercial toters; 6.2 percent for commercial bins; 6.7 percent per compactor cubic yard; and 5.4 percent for debris boxes. Residential customers represent 92 percent of the garbage customers in Millbrae.

• On Tuesday, the Millbrae City Council denied an appeal of previously-approved plans to allow a restaurant at 435 Broadway. The unanimous decision included upholding the requirement of the business to dispose of garbage only via the rear of the property on Taylor Boulevard. A full-service, fine dining Mexican restaurant and bar to be named Don Chavas Mexican Grill is planned. The existing building has two commercial spaces; the restaurant will fill the southern spot which is 2,230 square feet. Once opened, there should be space for 78 customers max.

• On Tuesday, the San Bruno City Council approved a few new fees.

The council began discussions about a potential ordinance requiring upkeep on empty properties in October. An increase in negative activities at these sites — such as junk drop-off, transients and drug dealing — is associated with many of these locations causing the council to consider regulation. Now, a property must be registered within 30 days of purchase and/or transfer of property. Registration will cost $150. If not maintained, property owners could face a $150 per property fine.

In addition, a $1 per $25,000 in valuation green building charge was also approved.