Editor,
With the Dec. 1 rotation of the San Mateo City Council giving us a new mayor for 2026, it seems a fine time to revisit an important topic: Allowing special interests direct access to our councilmembers while they are on the dais — via their cellphones.
Members of the public previously complained since it was relatively common knowledge that special interest “regulars” would text councilmembers during City Council meetings.
There is nothing like being a member of the public with an important issue on the agenda only to know someone else has your representative’s ear … or voice? Nasty business, that’s for sure.
This matter was taken up when complaints were lodged and while I can’t recall the exact outcome, the public’s request that cellphones be banned on the dais did not happen.
The city talks about transparency. Let’s see someone walk the talk to kick off the new year. It’s time to put the cellphone ban back on the agenda.
Lisa Taner
San Mateo
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