Editor,
A quarter of 1 cent is the proposed November San Mateo tax increase for $7 million annually. That’s a drop in the bucket considering aging buildings, deferred maintenance, etc. So, don’t be surprised to see another increase on the 2028 ballot. The city’s current tax cap is 9.875%, which can be increased with relative ease. That cap doesn’t apply to the forthcoming regional transit tax — likely to pass with its lowered approval requirement.
Get ready to see a school district tax too. San Mateo has various reduced or missed income opportunities and is saddled with pension debt.
The city manager is working to tighten the belt, but maybe we should’ve been doing that all along. Instead, we have Mayor Loraine’s $10 million Delaware “bike lane backtrack” expense and $27 million slated for the 19th Avenue bike lane he’s championing. All coming out of taxpayer pockets, one way or another. Let’s get serious. Remember 2025’s Measure T promise of “not one penny” in tax increases if we removed building height limits? Or its touted $15 million in funding revenue? It won’t be seen until build-out is completed.
Mayor Loraine headed up Measure T. But where has it left us? So, does San Mateo need money? Yes. At the same time, we have to ask, “How much more can the taxpayer bear?” Don’t politicians talk about making our region more affordable? Cast your votes this November. I don’t envy your choices, but I’m right there with you.
Lisa Taner
San Mateo
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