San Bruno Community Foundation outlines final legacy grants, awaits city project readiness

San Bruno, Calif. — The San Bruno Community Foundation told the City Council on June 9 that it has directed nearly $70 million in community investments to date from the original restitution fund and currently expects about $18 million could be available for the new fire station and final legacy projects once the city advances site and design work.

Lesie Hodmia, executive director of the foundation, told the council the organization has "prudent stewardship" obligations and is focusing remaining net assets on a small number of larger legacy projects rather than many small grants. She summarized recent grants the foundation has already funded, including $51.5 million for the Recreation & Aquatic Center (RACK) and a $2.25 million three-year program grant to support RACK operations and outreach.

Hodmia outlined two recent legacy decisions: an approximately $2 million additional commitment for permanent lighting at the Cresmore Fields soccer complex, and a combined $160,000 strategic grant and a $2 million quasi-endowment to support the San Bruno Park School District's outdoor education program (with an expected annual payout of about $100,000 starting in 2027-28). She said the board has set aside funds for the proposed fire station 52 and is "hopeful" the city will reach agreement on a site to trigger grant commitments.

During council questions, Hodmia and Vice President Jim Ruane said the foundation will not make large payouts until the board can verify plans, budgets and agreements are sufficiently developed. Ruane noted the foundation's independence and investment oversight has grown the original fund substantially: "We were able to turn our original $70 million to over $95 million," he said, and described the board's duty to avoid prematurely disbursing funds before projects are ready. Both said the foundation continues to discuss possible contributions to the senior center renovation but reiterated that any such contribution would reduce the money available for the fire station.

Hodmia also reviewed the foundation's FY2026-27 operating plan and cash needs, describing a $12.1 million strategic payout plan with a likely $10.2 million strategic payout this year and ongoing oversight functions. Foundation representatives asked the council to approve the foundation's operating budget at the council's June 23 meeting.

Next steps: Foundation staff and city staff will continue coordination on project milestones (fire station site, Cresmore Fields construction agreement) so the foundation board can move forward with grant awards and a monitored wind-down of operations once funds are committed.

Sources: Presentation by Lesie Hodmia and Vice President Jim Ruain to the San Bruno City Council, June 9, 2026.