San Carlos seats new City Council 

“San Carlos got lucky that year you were born and grew up in Devonshire Canyon,” outgoing Mayor John Dugan said to Collins. “Our true native son, twice mayor, councilmember, planning commissioner, economic development commissioner, vector control trustee and all-around great guy.”

San Mateo County Supervisor Ray Mueller, as well as other legislative representatives, came to share their remarks honoring his service. 

“Mr. All American, Mr. San Carlos, you exemplify integrity when it comes to public service,” Mueller said.

Collins has lived in San Carlos for most of his life, and has served in various public service positions before being on the council. Though he said he still wishes the city had a pool — a project he has led efforts on during his tenure — he reflected on all the city does have to offer. 

“We have so much,” Collins said. “It’s not the amenities we have, it’s the people who live and work in this town that is really most important.”

Collins’ successor Neil Layton spoke to the big shoes he’ll look to fill in his first term as a councilmember.

“When you look up the definition of local leader, you’ll find a photo of Ron Collins in the dictionary,” Layton said.

Layton was sworn into office after receiving the second most votes by residents in November.

“With Neil coming on, I think you’ll all be in good hands, and Neil will be in good hands,” Collins said. “He’s going to come ready for anything this city throws at him.”

Layton was formally a member of the San Carlos School District Board of Trustees, including during the height of the pandemic, and is a father to two daughters, who he credits for inspiring him to serve.

“I often describe the school board as combat duty versus the fun stuff we get to do up here,” Dugan said. “Neil was front and center at the hardest time when our community really needed leadership. I’m very glad to have him up here on the dais.” 

Dugan was also reelected to the council, but his term as mayor closed and the council was reorganized in time for the city’s centennial in 2025. 

Sara McDowell was nominated and voted unanimously to serve as mayor. McDowell served as mayor once before, sworn in December of 2021 at the height of the pandemic, which she recalled was held outside to practice social distancing. 

“Tonight I am so grateful that we can all be here together, in person, and I am so deeply honored by the opportunity to serve as mayor this coming year,” McDowell said. 

McDowell said she’s particularly honored to serve the city as mayor. Her children are sixth-generation city residents.

Only six women have served San Carlos as mayor, McDowell noted, including herself. She also recognized the history made with the new council rotation.

Pranita Venkatesh was nominated and voted unanimously as vice mayor, and she is the first woman of color to serve in the city’s role.  

For only the second time in city history have two women served in the mayor and vice mayor role.

“The importance of this moment, for all of us, is not lost on me,” McDowell said. “Representation matters. San Carlos has come a long way to becoming a welcoming and inclusive community, and tonight is proof of that progress.” 

City Treasurer Inge Tiegel Doherty was also sworn in for another four-year term. 

Voters passed a city measure to change the treasurer position from elected to appointed, which will go into effect after Tiegel Doherty serves her current term.