San Mateo County develops online project mapper and tree permit tool

In a recent meeting held at San Mateo County's city hall, officials unveiled exciting new tools aimed at enhancing public access to vital information regarding local projects and permits. Under the warm glow of overhead lights, Chanda Singh, a key figure in the county's planning department, shared updates on two innovative online resources designed to streamline community engagement and improve transparency.

The first initiative is the CTC Transportation Projects Mapper Tool, which is nearing completion. This online platform will display all projects related to the Connect the Coastside plan, allowing residents and staff to easily track project statuses and developments. Singh emphasized the tool's importance, noting that it fulfills a requirement for annual updates mandated by the California Transportation Commission. With internal testing scheduled before summer, the county anticipates launching the tool to the public soon, providing a user-friendly way for citizens to stay informed about local infrastructure projects.

In addition to the transportation tool, the county has rolled out the "Do I Need a Tree Permit?" tool, which is already operational. This resource guides users through a series of questions to determine whether a tree permit is necessary, based on the tree species and other factors. By simplifying the permitting process, officials hope to reduce confusion and complaints related to tree ordinances. The county plans to evaluate the tool's effectiveness at the end of the year, with the potential to develop similar resources for other permitting processes, such as accessory dwelling units (ADUs).

The meeting also highlighted the establishment of a drought working group, funded by the state, to prepare for potential drought conditions. This task force aims to create mechanisms for effective response and management in the event of water shortages, ensuring the county is better equipped to handle such challenges.

Lastly, officials discussed plans for a housing permit data dashboard, which will transform the annual reporting process into a more accessible format for the public. This initiative aims to provide clearer insights into housing permits and related data, fostering greater community awareness and involvement.

As these tools and initiatives take shape, San Mateo County is poised to enhance its communication with residents, making it easier for them to navigate local regulations and stay informed about important projects in their community.