Planning team collaborates with PlaceWorks to overhaul zoning code for community

The San Mateo City Council convened on June 16, 2025, to address several key agenda items, including a significant overhaul of the city's zoning code and updates on local public health initiatives.

The meeting began with a discussion on the partnership between city staff and PlaceWorks, a consulting firm, aimed at updating the zoning code. City officials emphasized the necessity of a comprehensive review of the existing code, which has not been significantly revised for decades. The planning team will work closely with PlaceWorks to ensure the new code aligns with the city’s general plan and meets the community's needs moving forward. The city attorney's office will also play a crucial role in this extensive project, which is expected to take considerable time and involve multiple stages of community input and review by decision-makers.

Following this discussion, the council moved to item number 15, where a motion to approve the proposed zoning code update was unanimously passed with a 5-0 vote.

Council member Rob then highlighted the role of the San Mateo County Mosquito and Vector Control District, which will assist with public health initiatives, including rodent inspections. He noted that while the district does not conduct exterminations, they provide valuable resources to the community. He encouraged residents to participate in the district's open house event scheduled for the upcoming weekend.

The council then addressed item number 31, which also received unanimous approval. The meeting concluded with a brief discussion on the Hillsdale Caltrain commuter shuttle agreement, which is set for a two-year term, although further details were not elaborated during this session.

Overall, the meeting underscored the city’s commitment to modernizing its zoning regulations and enhancing public health resources, with collaborative efforts between city staff, consultants, and community stakeholders.