Tom Mohr may run for council

Two officials on the Planning Commission - a popular launching pad to the City Council - have expressed interest in joining the race as well. Neither Brandt Grotte or Fred Hansson are ruling out the possibility.

"I'd rather not say yet," Grotte said.

Mohr, who retired as superintendent of the San Mateo Union High School District this year, could not be reached for comment, but Councilman Jack Matthews and other sources say they've heard rumors that he will make a run. Since his retirement, Mohr has been a quiet but steady presence at recent City Council meetings, which have been marked by a growing attendance.

Over the past several months, a variety of topics like redevelopment, building heights and the economy have fueled an interest in the inner workings of City Hall. The result is that more people have become interested in serving the city, Groom said.

"You always hope that a lot of people will run," Groom said. "This is a democracy and we deserve a dialogue and choices."

In turn, Groom said city officials make it a point to involve residents in the civic process through a spate of advisory committees, commissions and the citizens' academy. City officials also meet frequently with homeowner groups to keep them up-to-date on the latest happenings at City Hall, she said.

"We work hard to get people to participate," Groom said.

Meanwhile, Hansson said his work responsibilities will play into his decision on whether he'll run. Even as a planning commissioner, Hansson already devotes many hours to the job. Being on the City Council would require even more time, he said.

"An absentee city councilmember is not what San Mateo needs," Hansson said.

It may seem early, but Hansson said he and Grotte are already talking to each other about a possible run.

Depending on how things shake out, Matthews said it could be tough picking a candidate to endorse - particularly if the two he served with on the Planning Commission decide to run.

"It's difficult because I have close ties to both and they both served on the committee to my election," Matthews said.

No matter who endorses which candidate, one thing's for sure.

"I don't think San Mateo has a shortage of good people," Hansson said.

Yunmi Choi can be reached by e-mail at yunmi@smdailyjournal.com or by phone: (650) 344-5200 ext.109. What do you think of this story? Send a letter to the editor: letters@smdailyjournal.com.