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Special Safety Event in our County Gun buy-back is tomorrow, Dec. 3, 2022
Caltrain Riders Alert Temporary Schedule Change
Caltrain’s Electrification Project, which will replace the 30-year-old diesel trains with state-of the art electric trains and install electrification infrastructure requires significant construction on the corridor.
To accommodate the construction and ensure the new electrified service is available for passengers in 2024, Caltrain will be temporarily reducing service levels from Monday, Dec. 5 to Sunday, Dec.18, 2022.
Both weekday and weekend service will be affected. Click on the link below for the revised schedule.
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Join us Dec. 13, 2022 for Council Reorganization
Latest election results and City Council Reorganization
As of the last report, there are only small number of CVR ballots to count, with the next update coming out on Monday Dec. 5, 2022. The remaining votes are not expected to change the outcome of our Belmont elections.
While the results are still being certified and any remaining ballots are being counted, we appreciate the community’s interest in Measure K and thank all of the residents who participated in Your Voice, Your Belmont as well as this important election. The enactment of Measure K will allow the City to continue to address the community’s city service needs and priorities.
We’re planning an oath of office ceremony at the Dec. 13, 2022 City Council meeting, starting at 6:30 p.m.
Here’s what to expect:
- Our current Mayor Julia Mates will open the meeting.
- The current City Council will take action on the business items, which will include the certification of the election (the Registrar of Voters is expected to provide the final results by Dec. 8, 2022).
- Then we will swear in our newly elected officials – starting with our new directly-elected Mayor, along with new Council Members for Districts 1 and 3.
- We’ll take a short break to switch the nameplates on the dais, after which our new City Council will proceed with the meeting.
- In addition to congratulating our newly elected officials, we will be recognizing City Council Members Warren Lieberman and Charles Stone for their service to Belmont.
Once the meeting is over, everyone will adjourn to our EOC at City Hall for an informal reception.
All of this is open to the public and we encourage you to stop by or watch the event virtually or on local channel 27.
One of our favorite things about local government is the connection we have with the community. There are so many ways to get engaged and coming to a City Council meeting is a great place to start.
Add the event to your calendar:
Three Ways to Participate:
In person: City Hall, Council Chambers, 1 Twin Pines Lane, Belmont
Online: https://zoom.us/j/95745673035 or call in 1-669-900-6833, meeting ID is 95745673035
Watch: on Channel 27 or livestream at: https://www.belmont.gov/departments/meetings-agendas-minutes.
Raffle Winner Chooses Lunch with Mayor Fifth Grader's National Night Out Prize
When Evia was informed by City staff that her name was drawn as one of the National Night Out 2022 raffle winners, she immediately knew who she wanted to meet.
"I picked lunch with Mayor Mates because she's the most interesting," Evia said in front of her special guests and fellow Cipriani Elementary School classmates.
On Wednesday, Nov. 30, 2022, busy schedules finally allowed for the group to meet in person. The 5th Grade students, along with Evia's mom, Nancy, dined outside on the patio at the Waterdog Tavern.
Mayor Mates thanked Evia for choosing her and thanked all the kids for being such great lunch guests. Congratulations Evia (pictured here, top left, in the aqua blue jacket).
The next National Night Out is set for August 2023.
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Meeting Agendas
City Council: Dec. 13, 2022 Award Ceremony 6 p.m. Regular Meeting, includes Council Reorganization 6:30 p.m.
Planning Commission Dec. 6, 2022 7 p.m.
Park and Rec Commission Dec. 7, 2022 7 p.m.
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Five-year anniversary of General Plan
Nov. 14, 2022 marked the five-year anniversary of the adoption of our 2035 General Plan, which includes the Belmont Village Specific Plan.
Not familiar with the plans or has it been a while since you were involved in the community meetings? Check out the vision for Belmont in the link below.
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HIP Housing Workshop at Belmont Library A Home Sharing Program How To Session
Learn about HIP Housing's nationally recognized Home Sharing program for both renters and homeowners.
The Home Sharing Program uses existing housing stock to help renters and those in need find housing at an affordable price.
The Home Sharing Program is advantageous to potential renters, as well as those who have a spare room or ADU to rent out, as home providers can significantly reduce their cost of living while also helping alleviate the housing shortage problem in the region. The program can also allow older adults to age in place, significantly reduce commute times of workers, and more.
Thursday, Dec. 15, 2022 6 - 7 p.m. Taube Room, Belmont Library
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Winter/Spring 2023 Activity Guide in Homes Class Registration Opens Soon
Did you get your Activity Guide in the mail this week? If so, we hope you've made your selections for classes. All registration for recreational classes for ages three to 55+ opens Monday, Dec. 5, 2022.
You can register online or browse the winter/spring guide for additional offerings for adults and seniors.
You may have noticed that this Guide has a new look to it. It may be a little smaller than normal, but it is still packed with a ton of fun classes and information. Scan the QR code in the Director's Message to let us know what you think of the new look (or click on this link) for the short survey.
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NDNU Tennis Courts Winter Closure Alexander and Hallmark Remain Open
The tennis courts at NDNU have closed for the winter. They will re-open for tennis and pickleball reservations on March 1, 2023.
You can still enjoy the newly resurfaced Alexander and Hallmark Park courts throughout winter, for both tennis and pickleball use.
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Countywide Rain Barrel Program
Take advantage of the rainy season with a rain barrel that can keep your gardens beautiful during drier months.
San Mateo County residents and business owners can purchase up to two high-quality 50-gallon barrels for $80 each, with rebates that could cover up to 100 percent for qualifying applicants. Get them while supplies last.
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Library Book Sale 2022 For Your Holiday Gift Giving
Don't miss the annual Belmont Friends of the Library Book Sale. Buy for your gift list, buy for birthdays throughout the year, or buy for your own collection.
Your purchase supports your local library.
Saturday, Dec. 10, 2022, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
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Dog Park Seasonal Updates Off-Leash Playtime Moves to Cipriani
Barrett Park off-leash dog hours have ended. For off-leash activity, please take your dog to Cipriani Dog Park.
Don't forget, Cipriani Dog Park is ONLY the fenced in area of the park and off-leash activity is ONLY permitted in the fenced in dog park. Dogs must remain on-leash when on the grass field or anywhere else in Cipriani Park. Thank you for your cooperation.
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Upcoming Creative Kids Contest Special Poetry & Essay Contest inspired by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
On Jan. 2, 2023, we will begin accepting entries for Belmont’s inaugural Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Poetry & Essay Contest. The contest is open to all Belmont-Redwood Shores School District youth in grades three through twelve. Entry deadline is Feb. 1, 2023.
Students may submit either their own poem or essay. The contest accepts written entries, no photos or images should be included in the submission.
Where Does Change Begin?
Contestants are asked to reflect on their own personal experiences and role in addressing forms of injustice and consider what steps can be taken toward building a stronger community.
Original poems or essays should creatively respond to the above question in context with Dr. King's famous quote:
"Darkness cannot drive out darkness, only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate, only love can do that." Excerpt from “Strength to Love,” 1963.
To learn more about submitting an entry, click on the button below.
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Belmont Chamber of Commerce Partners with County Chamber
On Thursday, Dec. 1, 2022, San Mateo County Chamber of Commerce announced its new partnership with Belmont Chamber of Commerce.
A letter to local businesses explained, "a working group consisting of Mary Morrissey Parden and Jeff Smith of the Belmont Chamber Board and Amy Buckmaster, Rosanne Foust, and Mario Rendon from the Chamber San Mateo County Board initiated discussions earlier this year about a potential partnership between the two organizations."
“An expanded partnership with Belmont will leverage the resources and importance of the sub-regional partnership of Redwood City, San Carlos, and Belmont. Everything from shared advocacy related to housing, Life Science development, transportation, Caltrain electrification, realizing the benefits of Stanford in Belmont, and many other policy priorities will result in a stronger local economy, critical community benefits, and an enhanced quality of life. All without sacrificing the identity or hyper-local priorities of Belmont businesses,” said Chamber San Mateo County CEO Amy Buckmaster, in the letter.
Belmont businesses in good standing with the Belmont Chamber will become a member of Chamber San Mateo County on Jan. 1, 2023. Find out more about the Belmont Chamber of Commerce by clicking the button below.
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Holiday Shopping in Full Swing
Now is a great time to show your support for Belmont’s small business community. Get to know your local retailers, they might have just what you're looking for. You can see on this map of nearby businesses the many choices to shop local.
Try the latest treats at your favorite Belmont restaurant or bakery, or to pop into a local store to find a great gift.
Belmont is home to many small businesses who are continuing to navigate, retool and pivot from the uncertainty of the past few years. Please join us in supporting our local small businesses.
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Find all of the events planned from the City of Belmont this holiday season. Bookmark www.Belmont.gov/HolidayEvents or click on the link below. Check back often, we'll add any new City events as they are announced.
Santa at the Firehouse and Toy Drive
We are less than one week away from our annual Santa at the Firehouse and Toy Drive.
Join us on Thursday, Dec. 8, 5:30 - 8:30 p.m. for a night full of fun and holiday cheer.
This event is completely free and open to all ages. Please bring at least one unwrapped toy for a child in need for entry.
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Letters to Santa Deadline Approaching
This holiday season, kids can write a letter to the North Pole and receive a free, personalized response in return from Santa himself. What a fun way for kids to practice their writing and mailing skills.
Letters must be dropped off or postmarked by Dec. 9, 2022 to:
Parks and Recreation Department Attn: Santa Claus 30 Twin Pines Lane Belmont, CA 94002
P.S. Santa needs your assistance. Please make sure that your return address is legible!
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Santa Parade - Dec. 21, 2022 Early evening route through town
Santa's making his list and he's checking it twice to see who he will visit on his annual trip through town. No, not that trip, his parade on Dec. 21, tentatively planned for 5 - 8 p.m.
You read that right, Belmont's Santa Parade winds through town starting at Twin Pines Lane and twisting along a route through our neighborhoods.
Stay tuned for the route details as they are confirmed.
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Three ways to prevent crime this holiday season
The holidays can mean more traffic in some of our busiest shopping areas – and it can also create more opportunities for crime. Belmont is one of the safest communities in the region, but we can still do our part to prevent crime during this busy shopping season.
- If you’re shopping in-person, be aware of your surroundings. Lock your car and don’t leave personal items inside it. Shop with a friend when possible – there’s safety in numbers.
- If you’re buying gifts online, make sure the websites you’re visiting are reputable. Check to see that the URLs start with “https,” meaning your personal information will be encrypted. Use a credit card, not a debit card.
- If you’re shipping or receiving deliveries, track your packages so you know when they’ll be delivered. Try to schedule deliveries for when you’re sure you’ll be home. Sign up to receive delivery alerts when possible.
Can Your Home Survive a Wildfire?
Fire. It can be a life saver ... or a devastating destroyer.
We have seen how quickly a wildfire can move from a vegetation fire to a residential area. Living in a "city" doesn't guarantee that wildfire embers won't reach your home and neighborhood.
We're here to share what we've learned about fire behavior, and what steps you can take to improve your chances of survival from a wildfire.
Join SMC Fire on Wednesday, Dec. 7 at 6:30 p.m. for a FREE event at the Twin Pines Lodge.
Residents of Belmont, San Mateo, and Foster City - especially those who live near hilly or brush-filled areas - are invited to join us for this free presentation, featuring:
The SMC Fire Department:
- Introduction to the Firewise Program
Landscaping - talk with experts about keeping your property beautiful while improving its fire safety, and drought tolerance.
Home Construction - what steps you can take to make your home more fire resistant.
Insurance - what does, and what should, your fire insurance cover? How to ensure your property is properly covered.
Dress comfortably, and in layers. This event will take place both indoors and out. If stormy weather, the event will move indoors.
NEW County Alert System Added Functions for Languages, Maps for all Residents
Thanks to an improved emergency alert and warning system, those who live and work in San Mateo County can now get messages via text, email and voice that include maps, images and multiple languages.
The new features of SMCalert are meant to empower residents further by providing key information to help keep them safe and navigate away from incidents like major traffic delays and detours, wildfires, floods, and mountain lions.
Existing recipients of SMCalert are encouraged to create a new account to enable the new features. If you don’t, you will continue receiving alerts as before, but cannot take advantage of the added features.
Those who do not currently use SMCalert are also urged to sign up and customize the types of alerts they’d like to receive.
COVID and Flu Vaccines Urged as Holiday Season Arrives
As we gather with our family and friends to share the traditions of the holidays, now more than ever County Health urges vaccination for flu and COVID-19.
Flu shots are available to everyone age six months and older. COVID-19 vaccines are available for those six months and older and boosters are available for those who are age five and older.
Bivalent boosters and flu shots are available from primary health care providers and retail pharmacies.
County Health’s community clinics also offer flu shots and COVID-19 boosters and primary series (first and second doses).
Appointments are available at MyTurn.
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Upcoming Traffic Advisory Hiller Sanitary Sewer System Upgrade Project
Through Dec. 9, 2022, our Contractor, McGuire and Hester, will close Hiller Street to through traffic between Masonic Way and Oxford Way due to trenching and sanitary sewer gravity pipe installation.
The work is anticipated to take place between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m.
Residents will have access to their driveways at all times. Detours will be in place via Masonic Way to Old County Road to Marine View Avenue.
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Winter Storm Preparation
Help us Reduce Storm Risks Limit the impacts of flooding
Your help in limiting our city's flood risk during winter storms is vital. Be proactive in preparing now for the winter season to help reduce the impacts of flooding.
Here are some tips on ways you can help minimize property damage:
Clear Leaves From Storm Drains The changing of seasons from autumn to winter comes littering of tree leaves. We sweep residential streets every other week to remove leaves and debris.
Fallen leaves can make their way down to storm drains, where they gather and block inlets, and create localized flooding. Here are some ways you can help reduce the impact of localized flooding by following these simple steps:
• Move your vehicle from the street the night before your scheduled sweeping day. • Do not blow yard debris into the roadway or gutter. • Do not sweep leaves into piles taller than one foot. • Place branches in the compost bin. • Trim trees and vegetation back behind the curb, and be sure there is a vertical clearance of 14" over the roadway so the sweeper can clean to the gutter.
If you see a storm drain blocked/covered with leaves, or localized flooding is occurring due to blockage, rake the leaves away (if you are able) and notify Public Works at 650-595-7425.
Clean Property Valley Gutters Valley gutters lie within a drainage easement, which are established on property plats to provide designated areas for surface run-off from private or public land to culverts and pipes, which empty into San Francisco Bay.
Over time, if they are neglected, storm water exiting broken or blocked gutters could erode these areas, causing instability, creating potential mudslides.
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Employers: Minimum Wage Updates New Rules Effective in the New Year
Beginning Jan. 1, 2023, all employers of employees who perform at least two (2) hours of work per week within the geographical boundary of Belmont must pay those employees minimum wages of not less than $16.75 per hour.
More information available at www.belmont.gov/minwage
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Did you know?
The City of Belmont's Planning Commission meets every first and third Tuesday at 7 p.m. in Council Chambers, One Twin Pines Lane, Belmont. Sign up to receive meeting notifications and agendas.
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