San Mateo abstains from stormwater ballot

But even though it’s not prohibited in San Mateo, the city typically does not vote on such measures, and councilmembers raised concerns about voter perception if they chose to do so.  

“We all sit here and unanimously support this measure. We’re all on record as that. That said, from a transparency perspective, I feel like it’s not appropriate. … I think we should just abstain at this time and then go back and get public input as to what the policy should be going forward,” Councilmember Rob Newsom said, in reference to whether or not City Council’s ability to vote on certain issues should be less discretionary and more codified. 

But Councilmember Rich Hedges noted the criticism could cut both ways, as the city could receive resident pushback if the measure subsequently fails at the ballot and stormwater infrastructure funding remains precarious.

“I understand what the optics of this might be, but I also understand the feeling of residents when they’re pulled back in FEMA if we fail by 50 votes. They’re gonna say, ‘Why didn’t those City Council people move forward and vote to have these votes cast?’” he said.

Public commenters, including Danielle Cwirko-Godycki, coalition leader for Flood Free San Mateo and supporter of the measure, voiced concern that the city’s involvement could instill distrust among residents. While the council is within its right to cast votes, it’s important that the public feels the ballot process was conducted with utmost integrity, she said. 

The fee would range from about $5.50 to $11 per month for residential properties, depending on the size, with a maximum 3% increase each year if approved by the City Council. The funds could only be used to fund stormwater management-related projects. 

If the measure passes, the city’s annual fee would equal $57,549.12, as a higher rate would be in place for non-residential properties. Mail-in ballots were sent to property owners on Nov. 1, who have until Dec. 17 to cast their votes.