|
A Community United - Halloween Events Delight
![Steve - the Unicorn](https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/CABELMONT/2023/11/8476789/5072189/2023-city-halloween-steve-as-seen-in-enews-unicorn-_crop.jpg) It has been a treat for our councilmembers and City staff to see all the festive, happy faces during our two Halloween events presented for the community.
We have delighted in meeting all of you, witnessing your costume creativity, and enjoying the spooky season along with you.
Creating events like this where our community can celebrate what it is to be a Belmont resident and can feel the sense of neighborliness is one of our goals. It's listed under our Strategic Focus Area: Quality of life "Engage the community in maintaining and enhancing Belmont’s character and quality of life."
Thank you, Belmont residents, for helping us to achieve one of our goals in service to our community. Whether you participated at one or both events, we hope you enjoy this gallery of images in the buttons below. Can you see yourself in the pictures?
Oh, and thanks Steve the Unicorn for reading your Weekly Enews. We're proud to repeat the joy along with you. See you next year!
Celebrating our Heroes on Veterans Day
Join us to honor the veterans in our community. City Council, City staff along with community partners, will join together in celebration of our heroes.
The event takes place at our Veterans Memorial in Twin Pines Park.
City Offices Closed Friday, Nov. 10
![Veterans Day 2023](https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/CABELMONT/2023/11/8481348/5072191/veterans-day-closure_crop.jpg) Our City offices will be closed on Friday, Nov. 10 to allow our staff an opportunity to honor Veterans Day.
As always, our emergency services are active. If you're experiencing a life-threatening event, call 911. For all non-emergency calls during holiday hours, call 650-595-7400.
Have Your Say - SMC Parks Wants Your Feedback
You can help guide the future of trails in the Santa Cruz Mountains, which are part of several San Mateo County Parks.
Please take this 3-minute survey, by clicking the button below, which will help create and manage a more connected, resilient, and equitable trail system.
|
Sound The Alarm - Free Fire Alarm Installation Event
San Mateo Consolidated Fire and American Red Cross have partnered together to host Sound the Alarm on Saturday, Nov. 11.
On Nov. 11 ONLY, SMCFire will send out teams of trained volunteers to install FREE smoke alarms in residences across our three cities of Belmont, Foster City, and San Mateo
Residents must make an appointment for this free service in advance. Call 650-259-1769.
|
2023 Strategic Plan Update
Last month, we shared our 2023 update to the Strategic Plan on the City Council agenda.
In 2020, Council and staff leadership engaged in a robust planning discussion to help guide and develop a Strategic Plan to lead us into the future.
In 2023, Council and staff leadership again collaborated in productive discussions to address Belmont’s critical issues and update our five Strategic Focus Areas so we could build on our continued momentum and success.
The update is now posted and available to view by clicking on the button below.
|
How Should County Improve Mobility Along Highway 101? Survey Seeks Feedback on North County
The San Mateo County Transportation Authority is currently gathering feedback on how to reduce congestion and improve mobility along the Highway 101 corridor, the first step in its 101 Corridor Connect project.
The 101 Corridor Connect project will identify, prioritize, and deliver a package of congestion management solutions along US 101 in San Mateo County. It will focus beyond highway infrastructure and include studies and recommendations relating to travel by foot, car, transit, bike, scooter, and ferry.
The first initiative for this project is the North County Multimodal Strategy which will assess travel along the corridor’s northern portion and include the cities of Millbrae, San Bruno, South San Francisco, Brisbane, and adjacent unincorporated communities. Feedback for North County is being collected through Nov. 17 via this online survey linked in the button below.
The TA anticipates the North County Multimodal Strategy to be completed early next year and will use it to serve as a foundation to elevate the transportation experience for all. Development of a Mid-County Multimodal Strategy will begin in mid-2024, and the South County Multimodal Strategy will follow.
|
Belmont's History Room - Fall/Winter Hours
Looking for an inside activity this fall and winter? Don't miss the chance to visit on of our city's incredible gems, Belmont Historical Society's History Room.
The room is staffed by volunteers who are making time for introduce any interested visitor in our rich history.
Belmont History Room Hours for October - December
Sunday, Nov. 12 Sunday, Dec. 10
1 - 4 p.m.
The Belmont History Room is located at located in the back of the Manor House in Twin Pines Park. Handicapped access is available in the front of the building.
|
Welcome New & Promoted Staff
The Community Development Department is pleased to welcome Laura Russell as our new Deputy Director of Community Development & Planning.
Laura has an extensive background of direct government experience having worked in Planning and Community Development for over 20 years, the majority of which has been in San Mateo County.
In her most recent role, she served as Planning and Building Director for the Town of Portola Valley. Prior to that, she worked for the cities of San Carlos and Atherton as a consultant planner, as well as the cities of San Bruno, Palo Alto, and Merced.
Outside of work, Laura is an enthusiastic fan of ballet and football (she's a die-hard Raiders fan). Welcome Laura.
|
Welcome Larry Ferguson as our new Payroll Manager.
Larry is a lifelong Bay Area resident, born in Burlingame and currently residing in the East Bay.
He graduated from Cal State East Bay where he earned his Bachelors in Business Administration and MBA.
Larry has over 12 years of payroll experience, including at the cities of Hayward, Campbell, and Dublin, as well as in the private sector at Berkeley Bowl Marketplace.
He is a big fan of the San Francisco 49ers, San Francisco Giants, and the Golden State Warriors, and loves watching them and attending games. Welcome Larry.
|
Congratulations to Matt Ward for his promotion to Parks and Facilities Manager.
Matt’s 17 years of experience, most recently as Senior Parks Maintenance Worker, and his dedication to Belmont make this role a perfect fit. Matt will lead our Parks and Facilities team. He’s already demonstrated his enthusiasm and capability for this expanded role by serving as Acting Parks Manager since June. We look forward to seeing Matt’s vision for our Parks and Facilities Division be realized over the coming years. He is truly committed to enhancing the quality of life for the Belmont community.
Matt is not only an avid distance runner who has qualified for Boston and NYC marathons, and a certified arborist, but he also grows orchids and almost owned a pizza parlor in a past life. Congratulations Matt.
|
Congratulation to Alain Urruty on his new role as Parks and Facilities Supervisor.
This is a new position in the Belmont, but Alain is ready to make it his own, given his extensive experience in fixing every inch of our facilities for many years.
Previously, Alain was a Parks Maintenance Worker, so he’s also very familiar with getting grass to grow, pruning trees, and doing the million other things necessary to keep parks in tip top shape.
Alain hails from San Francisco and is an ardent fan of the Paris Saint-Germain Soccer Team. Attending a game in Paris with his son this summer was the fulfillment of a lifelong dream.
|
MidPen Water District Welcomes New General Manager
At its Regular meeting on Sept. 28, the Board of Directors for the Mid-Peninsula Water District appointed Kat Wuelfing as the new General Manager for the District.
The appointment is the culmination of a two-year succession plan that navigated the recent retirement of several long-term MPWD employees, including that of former General Manager, Tammy Rudock, in April 2023.
MPWD has been functioning as a public utility since 1929, proudly providing service to the communities of Belmont and portions of San Carlos, Redwood City, and unincorporated San Mateo County. The District supplies water to 30,000 consumers within approximately five square miles. It is managed by a five-member elected Board of Directors and 19 full-time employees.
To read the complete press release, click on the button below.
|
|
|
Public Meetings
![City Hall at night](https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/CABELMONT/2023/08/8092980/4945735/city-of-belmont-12-3-16-8953_crop.jpg) Belmont City Council Tuesday, Nov. 14, 2023 6:30 p.m. - Closed Session 7 p.m. - Regular Meeting
Public Safety Committee Monday, Nov. 13 5:30 p.m.
|
TONIGHT'S Mental Health Symposium Focuses on Military/Veteran Culture
Belmont Police Department is joining forces with Veterans Affairs Palo Alto Health Care for this year's Mental Health Symposium.
For its third annual community support event, the focus of the evening will be on mental health, suicide prevention, and military/veteran culture.
Tonight (Nov. 3) 6 – 7:30 p.m. Belmont Sports Complex 550 Island Parkway Belmont, CA.
For complete information and to learn how you can attend, click on the button below.
|
|
|
We have some of the best eateries, take-out hotspots, and local businesses on the Peninsula. We are proud members of Chamber San Mateo County and are delighted by the many visitors who come to our city just to visit our unique businesses.
Get to know Belmont businesses by clicking the button below.
|
San Mateo Countywide Automated Vehicles Strategic Plan Virtual Workshop
Automated Vehicles are rapidly emerging as a transformative technology with the potential to revolutionize various sectors of transportation. From personal vehicles to shuttles, transit, freight, delivery and more, automation will reshape mobility in San Mateo County.
Recognizing this potential, the San Mateo County Transportation Authority and City/County Association of Governments of San Mateo County are working together to develop the San Mateo Countywide Automated Vehicles Strategic Plan.
Join the organizations on Nov. 15 for a virtual public workshop about the San Mateo Countywide Automated Vehicles Strategic Plan.
The SMCTA and C/CAG value your feedback and want to hear your thoughts and ideas about AV deployment in San Mateo County. At the workshop, the presenters will give an overview of the project, provide information on practical AV applications, and seek feedback on a draft vision statement, set of goals, and preliminary strategies.
Don't miss this chance to have your voice heard and contribute to shaping the future of transportation in San Mateo County.
To stay up to date on engagement opportunities and to learn more about the AV Strategic Plan, visit the project webpage.
Click the button below to register for the workshop.
|
Peninsula Clean Energy Launches Incentive Grants for EV Chargers
Peninsula Clean Energy staff is recommending award of incentive grants to Belmont customers applying for EV charger installations for seven multifamily properties.
In total this adds up to 182 charge ports, and $786,000 in total local awards.
In December 2018, the PCE Board approved a four-year $16 million EV charging infrastructure program intended to accelerate EV adoption in San Mateo County. The funds include $12 million in incentives, technical assistance, workforce development, and other program costs, and was named the EV Ready Program.
In October 2023, the Board of Directors authorized a contract amendment with CLEAResult, which is providing technical assistance services for an updated contract total of $2,524,500 and timeline extension through December 2026.
To learn more about the program and incentives, click the button below:
|
Holiday Craft Fair set for Saturday, Nov. 18
Come get in the holiday spirit at the annual Holiday Craft Faire.
This year, we’ll feature 70 vendors selling a wide variety of handcrafted goods.
Be sure to stop by all four buildings in Twin Pines Park:
- Senior and Community Center
- Lodge
- Manor
- Cottage
Saturday, Nov 18 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Twin Pines Park Campus Belmont, CA
|
Diwali Celebration Set for Nov. 19
Join us, in partnership with the Belmont Public Library, for a Diwali Celebration at the Twin Pines Senior and Community Center on Sunday, Nov. 19.
Come listen to poems by Belmont’s Poet Laureate Monica Korde and other local poets, watch a performance by Pagrav Dance studio featuring Purvi Jejurka, visit the Diwali themed craft table, and learn all about the festival of lights.
This event is free and open to all.
Sunday, Nov. 19 1:30 - 5 p.m. Twin Pine Senior and Community Center 20 Twin Pines Lane Belmont, CA
|
Free Diapers Pilot Program
Belmont and Pacifica Sharp Park Libraries are participating in a pilot program to bring free diapers and wipes to families in need.
Through $50,000 in funding approved by the San Mateo County Board of Supervisors, this pilot to bring diapers to the community was proposed by Supervisor Ray Mueller of District 3. “No family should have to make the impossible decision between paying rent, putting food on the table or taking care of their baby using necessary supplies such as diapers.”
On Saturday, Nov. 18 at 10:30 AM, at the Belmont Library the program is excited to offer free diapers and wipes to families in need.
At each event, families can receive kits containing 80 diapers and 200 wipes per child, up to two kits total. While they are there, they can enjoy kid-friendly experiences from music and movement to sensory exploration. Diapers will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis and are available in sizes 1-6, while supplies last.
|
VOICES Holiday Food Drive
Our VOCIES team is excited to host a holiday food drive in partnership with Samaritan House.
Donations will be accepted from Nov. 1 – Dec. 1 at the following locations:
Parks and Recreation Office 30 Twin Pines Lane Belmont, CA Monday – Friday 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
The Hideout - Barrett Community Center, Room E 1835 Belburn Drive Belmont, CA Monday – Friday 1 – 5 p.m.
A full list of accepted food items can be found by clicking the button below:
|
Minimum Wage Mailer Coming Soon
This week, all Belmont businesses were mailed a packet containing information on Belmont's Minimum Wage Ordinance as well as the 2024 Employer Posting Notice, to be displayed by those with employees.
On Jan. 1, 2024, the Minimum Wage in the City of Belmont will increase to $17.35 per hour. Covered employees include anyone who performs two hours or more of work per week within the geographic boundaries of the City, including employees who are under 18.
|
Affordable Housing Interest List
Development is happening in Belmont! Join the Affordable Housing Interest List to receive information on preleasing opportunities and other updates.
|
Seniors Lunch Program - Reservations Required
Seniors are welcome to Come enjoy a hot, nutritious meal at the Senior and Community Center.
Lunch is served every Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday at 11:30 a.m.
A reservation is required at least one week in advance and can be made by calling 650-595-7444 or by stopping by the Senior and Community Center.
The suggested contribution is $6 per meal. Check out the menu and more details by clicking the button below.
|
Free Informational Seminars for Seniors
Want to learn about free resources for seniors in our community? The Twin Pines Senior and Community Center is hosting seminars on a variety of topics this fall.
All seminars are free of charge, but please RSVP to 650-595-7444.
|
Free Medication Management Seminar
Did you know that 1 in 10 hospitalizations are the result of not taking medications correctly? Come and learn about self-advocacy tools and safety precautions to prevent this from happening to you. Presented by Janel Jurosky, Community Nurse & Educator with Dignity Health. Please RSVP to 650-595-7444.
Medication Management Tuesday, Nov 7 10:30 a.m. Twin Pines Senior and Community Center 20 Twin Pines Lane Belmont, CA
Save the date for upcoming seminars:
-
Advanced Healthcare Directives/Power of Attorney
- Tuesday, Dec 5
- One-on-one assistance 9:30 – 11:30 a.m.
-
Transportation Resources
- Tuesday, Dec 12 at 10:30 a.m.
Free Blood Pressure Checks
Stay on top of monitoring your blood pressure. Receive personalized, individualized screening and counseling by an experienced Sequoia Hospital nurse who can answer your questions and help you understand your results.
Free screenings are available at the Twin Pines Senior and Community Center on the third Tuesday of each month.
Tuesday, Nov. 21 11 a.m. – Noon Twin Pines Senior and Community Center 20 Twin Pines Lane Belmont, CA
|
Twin Pines Book Club
Connect with others over lively conversation while we adventure together through our reading choices.
The Belmont Library and the Twin Pines Senior and Community Center are partnering to offer a new book club that will meet on the first Thursday of the month at 2:30 p.m.
“West with Giraffes” by Lynda Rutledge will be discussed at the first meeting on Nov 2, along with what the group envisions for the book club moving forward. Whether you have time to read the book or not, you’re welcome to join us.
Thursday, Dec. 7 2:30 p.m. Twin Pines Senior and Community Center 20 Twin Pines Lane Belmont, CA
|
Bike Trail Update: PG&E Gas Safety Work Closes Ralston-Canada Bike/Ped Trail – Extended Through November
Pacific Gas and Electric Company has obtained a San Mateo County Parks permit for the temporary trail closure of the Ralston Avenue Bike Trail in San Mateo.
This closure is necessary to support an important gas pipeline safety test.
To support the safe and reliable operation of our natural gas system, PG&E is conducting a pipeline strength test and replacing a valve inside Ralston Station, adjacent to Ralston Avenue Bike Trail.
Strength testing, also known as hydrostatic pressure testing, entails filling a pipe with water, pressurizing the pipe higher than operational levels, and then monitoring the pipe for potential anomalies while at the increased pressure.
These tests are one of the many ways PG&E ensures that its pipeline system is in compliance with all state and federal safety standards. The safety test, a standard used throughout the pipeline industry, validates the safe operating pressure of the pipeline and helps identify an area where further evaluation may be necessary.
Recently, PG&E discovered that there were other pipeline components that needed to be replaced and those components were not readily available. As a result, PG&E has extended the project schedule to Nov. 30. 2023.
For any questions about this gas safety project, please reach out to Customer Outreach Specialist, Daniel LoFortie at 408-406-6552 or by email Daniel.LoForti@pge.com
|
Belmont Creek Annual Cleanup - A Departmental Collaboration
Our Public Works and Park and Recreation departments undertake annual preventive maintenance of Belmont Creek in areas where Belmont is the adjacent property owner within Twin Pines Park. In other areas of the city -- where the creek runs through private property -- the adjacent property owner is responsible for creek maintenance.
Additionally, we perform regular removal of vegetation, silt, dirt and rocks from Belmont Creek between El Camino Real and Old County Road underneath the Caltrain right of way.
We have performed a dredging project to reduce the risk of flooding and ensure sufficient stormwater carrying capacity of the creek. Permits for dredging were secured from regulatory agencies in the following years: 2011, 2012, 2016, 2017, 2019, 2021 and 2023. Annually since 2010, the vegetation build up is removed from Belmont Creek in this stretch between ECR and OCR..
From Oct. 17 to 19, we completed this year's Belmont Creek dredging project and will assist in flood risk reduction in parts of Belmont, as well as San Carlos and unincorporated San Mateo County.
Our Stormwater Maintenance Crew setup three coffer dams to stop water flow and installed a pump for creek water to bypass the dredging project. Andreini Brothers, our contractor, removed approximately 400 tons (nearly 1,500 cubic yards) of silt and vegetation for ample storm water flow during the rainy season.
![Sandbag Stations Open](https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/CABELMONT/2023/10/8332815/sandbags-socials-2_original.jpg) Our sandbag stations are open for business.
We urge residents that know they will have a need for sandbags in the wet season to stock up before the season is upon us.
Also, for residents that still have sandbags, please re-use your bags and sand as feasible to help preserve supply for your neighbors.
Maintenance Work This Week
![Sign Improvements on Davey Glen](https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/CABELMONT/2023/11/8481288/before-and-after-sign-improvements_original.jpg) Our Street and Traffic Operations continued rolling with multiple service calls this week including custom sign fabrication requests for other Belmont Departments (Recreation, Police), replacing damaged signs (Arthur), cleaning vandalized signs (Davey Glen), and yes... more potholes (Hillman).
Staff have resolved all these issues and are continuing to work on some street light outages (Bayview, Tahoe, Francis and a few others) with our contracted lighting vendor.
Staff also applied 250 linear feet of crack sealant to the bike path in Twin Pines Park to help preserve the pavement during the coming rainy season and refreshed nearly 800 linear feet of red curb on Alameda near Carlmont High School.
|
|
|
|
|