Black History Month Proclamation

The 2025 Black History Month theme is “African Americans and Labor” and focuses on the pivotal role Black Americans have played in the labor force throughout history. We recognize the African Americans in Labor Unions in San Mateo County whose skills and craft are vital to the quality of life and economic success of our community. The International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) is the most established and extensive electrical union in the world, existing as long as the commercial use of electricity. Thank you to Stephen Booker, Political Director and Community Affairs Liaison of IBEW Local Union 617, for accepting our Black History Month Proclamation at our City Council meeting on Feb. 11.

San Mateo County Libraries invites you to celebrate Black History Month by exploring this year’s theme through their materials that reflect on the stories of resilience, innovation, and progress that continue to inspire us.

Amara Business Spotlight

This Valentine's Day, immerse yourself in a Mediterranean escape right here in Belmont! Ajay Walia and Reena Miglani recently opened Amara, a culinary oasis inspired by their family travels. Read more in this month's Business Spotlight.

Century Chronicles

In January, Highlander, Carlmont High School’s magazine, featured an outstanding article on Belmont’s history by Naomi Hsu and Ayana GanJoo, titled "History in Plain Sight." The piece explores Belmont’s Spanish and Native origins and traces its evolution into the vibrant city of over 26,000 residents we know today. We highly recommend giving it a read.

Be sure to bookmark this page—we’ll update it regularly with exciting news and details as our centennial celebrations come to life! We invite you to get involved and share your ideas for celebrating this milestone! Whether you have creative suggestions or are interested in volunteering, we want to hear from you. Please complete the survey or reach out to us at communications@belmont.gov.

Retail Cannabis Updates

The City of Belmont is considering retail cannabis dispensaries proposed at 1397 El Camino Real and 1538 El Camino Real, Suite C. At the February 11 City Council meeting, the Council reviewed the proposed community benefit contributions from each applicant, which include a contribution of 1.5% of their gross profits towards the Belmont Community Foundation for the purpose of constructing a new community center, parks and recreation programming, and other community needs. The review of the cannabis applications will go before the Planning Commission on March 4 for a recommendation and before the City Council on March 25 for final review and approval.

Mid-Year Budget Review

On Tuesday night, the City Council received the mid-year budget review. Overall, results are tracking to budget expectations. General Fund revenues are relatively flat, with sales tax showing signs of cooling off as consumer spending is slowing down across sectors. Expenditures are contained, with all categories at or below 50% of the budget at the midpoint mark. We continue to face challenges with the State takeaway of property taxes, a primary source of General Fund revenue. Following the presentation, the Council approved revisions to the capital improvement projects and operational budgets. Presentation materials and a video recording are available here.

Renting Your ADU Webinar

Are you considering renting out your Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) or building one? Join the ADU Resource Center of San Mateo County and the non-profit organization HIP Housing for a free webinar on February 27 from 6-7 p.m. via Zoom. This informative session will cover the ins and outs of renting your ADU, including what landlords should know when seeking and securing tenants, as well as information about HIP Housing's Home Sharing Program. Learn how this program can help you find a tenant and ensure a successful rental experience by registering today.

Public Works Highlights

Public Works Operations staff have been hard at work repairing or replacing damaged traffic signs, addressing sidewalk trip hazards, and removing a streetlight pole damaged in a vehicle accident, which will be replaced soon. Our Operations staff also teamed up for storm duty. This involved preparing for and cleaning up during and after the rain events. Staff continue to stock sandbag stations to keep them ready for Belmont residents.

For drivers at the Ralston and Tahoe intersection, please be advised that while a recent technical issue was resolved, a separate issue has returned the traffic signals to recall mode, causing delays. We are actively working with our vendors to restore normal function and aim for a resolution shortly.