The truth on Measure T

Nov 1, 2024
Nov 1, 2024 Updated Apr 14, 2025
5

Editor,

If you are a San Mateo resident you no doubt have encountered Measure T. From social media discourse to the assortment of red or yellow signs you’ve seen everywhere — this is a big deal. I’d like to tell you some Measure T truths.

(5) comments

Souf Nov 1, 2024 7:32am

Keep the residents of San Mateo next to the driver, so we can grab the wheel when the city & developers go off course…VOTE NO on Measure T

Terence Y Nov 1, 2024 8:32am

Sorry, Mr. Newsom, but Measure T is a flawed bait and switch measure. The biggest TRUTH: Measure T repeals Measure Y so whatever “protections” were given under Measure Y is now taken away, such as the supposed 90% buildable area of San Mateo and the supposed changes in heights/density in 10% of the city you mention. If folks have voter remorse, they can change their vote in the future as I expect there will be future Measure T “clones” in the near and far future. Meanwhile, I’d recommend folks start voting out the folks who decided to put Measure T on the ballot. Measure T may create places to live at exactly where they want, and not the most convenient. Vote NO on Measure T.

GasCar1956 Nov 1, 2024 4:05pm

This is completely incorrect. Your interpretation shows a fundamental misunderstanding of the legal framework, and despite multiple suggestions to clarify your misconceptions, you have chosen not to do so. I find it troubling that you continue to spread these inaccurate claims in nearly every Yes on T Letter to the Editor. I've grown weary of reading these misrepresentations. It is incumbent upon you to educate yourself properly on these matters before making such assertions. Do better!

Terence Y Nov 5, 2024 10:53am

GasCar1956, if you recall the “fine” print: Section 4. Measure Y, attached hereto as Attachment 3 and incorporated by reference, is hereby repealed in its entirety.

You say I’m incorrect and have a fundamental misunderstanding but you’re not providing any fundamental understanding of the legal framework. Nor are any other letter writers or contributors. Perhaps they should “do better” and explain why Measure Y must be repealed in its entirety. Until such time Measure T remains flawed and folks should vote NO on Measure T.

LaurieHietter Nov 1, 2024 9:25am

Here are a few more truths about Measure T.

All of Measure Y is repealed, which means that the areas beyond downtown and transit areas targeted do not have the protection of requiring voter approval for height and density increases, as with Measure Y.

The Measure T ordinance says: "The Land Use Element may be modified without voter approval through the general plan amendment process..." Three votes of the City Council can approve skyscrapers anywhere in the City.

The ballot language for Measure T is incredibly deceptive. The purpose of the measure is to repeal Measure Y and its height and density limits. The words "affordable housing" are not in the ordinance.

The deceptive ballot language alone is enough to cause me to vote no. What other deceptions are this group hiding?

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