PUBLIC COMMENT — San Mateo City Council, May 7, 2025

1 From: Adam Klafter
Sent: Tuesday, May 6, 2025 5:40 PM
To: Clerk
Cc: City Council (San Mateo)
Subject: Re: Planning Commission appointments
Mayor, Deputy Mayor, honorable members of City Council, I wanted to write a brief letter in support of Adam Nugent’s reappointment to the San Mateo Planning Commission for another term. Over the last several years, Adam contributed to the development of our city’s housing element and design standards, and currently serves as Vice Chair. While there has been a relative lull at the Planning Commission since the latter half of 2024, my expectation is that this will soon change as a significant number of building applications make their way through the planning process. As we begin to see those projects in front of the commission, I believe that Adam’s expertise and tenure on the commission will be an asset to our deliberations and the commission’s ability to respond in a constructive way to community concerns. In my observations prior to my own appointment, and since that time in my direct interactions, I consider Adam to be incisive in his comments, respectful of different points of view and genuine in his commitment to San Mateo.

Finally, touching for a moment on the subject of continuity: if it is the council’s decision not to reappoint Adam to the commission, I would move up in seniority, and if current procedure is maintained may find myself in the position of Chair of the commission without having had the opportunity to serve first as Vice Chair for the normal length of time. I believe that this break in continuity of leadership would not be in the best interest of serving the community.

Respectfully,
-Adam Klafter

1 From: Gene Alston < >
Sent: Tuesday, May 6, 2025 11:27 AM
To: Clerk
Cc: City Council (San Mateo)
Subject: Recommendation for Adam Nugent – City of San Mateo Planning Commission Dear City Council Members,

I wholeheartedly recommend Adam Nugent for re-appointment to the San Mateo Planning Commission.

Adam brings a rare combination of service, leadership, and independent thinking that would greatly benefit the city during a period of critical planning and growth.

A veteran of the United States military, Adam has demonstrated a lifelong commitment to public service and civic duty.

His disciplined approach, principled foundation, and mission-oriented mindset are evident in every aspect of his community involvement.

Adam’s military service reflects a deep commitment to public duty—a value I share as a fellow Veteran—and one that is urgently needed in our civic institutions.

Adam is also a thoughtful and independent voice—willing to ask tough questions, engage diverse perspectives, and prioritize long-term community outcomes over short-term political considerations. He approaches planning decisions with a balanced perspective that respects both individual property rights and the broader needs of San Mateo’s future.

I urge his re-appointment and am confident he will continue to serve the City of San Mateo and all of its community well.

Best,
Gene Alston
Baywood Resident

1 From: Auros Harman < >
Sent: Tuesday, May 6, 2025 1:19 PM
To: Clerk
Subject: City Council Special Meeting 2025-05-07 6pm item 1 planning commissioner interviews Dear Council and Staff,

I currently serve as Chair of the Planning Commission for the City of San Bruno. I note this just to provide context for my knowledge of the role; I speak here only on my own behalf, not on behalf of the city or commission.

I write in support of Planning Commissioner Adam Nugent, whom I know from 21 Elements events, and other meetings where people involved in municipal business interact. Mr. Nugent is deeply knowledgeable about land use and transportation, and has consistently shown himself to be kind, public-spirited, and tolerant. He is a role model for commissioners throughout the region, applying the rules set by the state, county, and city fairly, exercising discretion where the law allows, to serve the public interest. I would strongly encourage you to re-appoint him for another term.

Regards,
Auros Harman

From: Mary Beavins >
Sent: Wednesday, May 7, 2025 9:53 AM
To: City Council (San Mateo)
Subject: Please do not renew Adam Nugent's seat.

Dear City Council,

Please do not renew Adam Nugent's seat. We San Mateans need someone we can trust who represents the best interests of all of us and who has the ethics that we share of honesty and above-board behavior. Adam Nugent is not that person.

Please do not renew Adam Nugent's seat.

Mary Beavins

1 From: Jean Dail
Sent: Wednesday, May 7, 2025 12:34 PM
To: City Council (San Mateo)
Subject: Do NOT reappoint “no ethics” Adam Nugent to our Planning Commision!!! Dear City Counsel Members:

Please take the action that should have been taken long before now. Do NOT reappoint Adam Nugent to our Planning Commission. This is not the type of person we should have making recommendations for our city. Hasn’t all the negative and unethical behavior of Nugent warranted his removal from our city politics???

Please do not let him continue to be part of the City of San Mateo’s future.

Sincerely, Jean Dail
Sent from Yahoo Mail for iPad

1 From: Daniel Schonberg < >
Sent: Tuesday, May 6, 2025 6:23 AM
To: City Council (San Mateo); Clerk
Subject: Planning Commission Vacancies
I am a San Mateo resident living on E 5th Ave. I am writing to express my support for John Lovell, Adam Nugent, and Andrew Reback for the planning commission vacancies. Particularly John Lovell would be a fantastic contributor to our city.

Thank you.

Sincerely,
Daniel Schonberg

1 From: Doug D'Anna < >
Sent: Wednesday, May 7, 2025 9:34 AM
To: City Council (San Mateo)
Subject: Planning Commission Reappointment
Dear Council,

I am writing to respectfully urge the City Council to DENY the reappointment of Adam Nugent to the San Mateo Planning Commission during the interviews scheduled for May 7, 2025.

As a concerned resident, I believe that public trust and ethical conduct are essential for effective governance. Who can forget the campaign sign fiasco in October 2022? Seriously, it was all over the papers and the news—an act caught on camera and reported by KCBS Radio.

Denying Mr. Nugent’s reappointment would demonstrate a
dedication to restoring trust and ensuring that commissioners uphold the highest standards of integrity.

Thank you for considering this request and for your service to our community.

Sincerely,

Doug D’Anna

1 From: Ronnie Eaton < >
Sent: Wednesday, May 7, 2025 10:51 AM
To: City Council (San Mateo)
Subject: New voices needed
Honorable Members of the City Council:

We are contacting you to request that Adam Lorraine's tenure on the Planning Commission not be extended.

We need to have more rotation of planning commission members and new points of view on the commission as San Mateo undergoes more intense development as the result of the passage of Measure T.

Please take an indepth look at the new applicants for this important commission.

Thank you,

Bruce and Ronnie Eaton
Sunnybrae residents

I wholeheartedly recommend Adam Nugent for re-appointment to the San Mateo Planning Commission.

Adam brings a rare combination of service, leadership, and independent thinking that would greatly benefit the city during a period of critical planning and growth.

A veteran of the United States military, Adam has demonstrated a lifelong commitment to public service and civic duty.

His disciplined approach, principled foundation, and mission-oriented mindset are evident in every aspect of his community involvement.

Adam’s military service reflects a deep commitment to public duty—a value I share as a fellow Veteran—and one that is urgently needed in our civic institutions.

I urge his re-appointment and am confident he will continue to serve the City of San Mateo and all of its community well.

Best,
Gene Alston
Baywood Resident

1 From: Mike Germano
Sent: Wednesday, May 7, 2025 11:42 AM
To: City Council (San Mateo)
Subject: San Mateo Planning Commissioner - Concerns
To my City Council members,

I am a long time resident of San Mateo and I strongly oppose the continuance of Adam Nugent on our city's planning commission.

He has proven unprofessional and unworthy of our trust in his actions. He does not represent the values and professionalism we expect in our city officials and the residents of San Mateo deserve.

Please do not allow Adam Nugent to remain on our city's Planning Commission.

Thank you,

Mike Germano

1 From: ROB GIBSON
Sent: Wednesday, May 7, 2025 12:54 PM
To: City Council (San Mateo)
Subject: Planing Commission
Dear San Mateo City Council,

Tonight you are tasked with renewing the council seat of councilman Adam Nugent. If my memory is correct Mr. Nugent was caught illegally removing the campaign yard signs of candidates he did not approve of. This act is completely illegal and blatantly undemocratic.

This kind of activity should not be rewarded by his seat being renewed.

There are other qualified candidates that should be put at the top of the list long before Mr. Nugent is even considered.

Thank You,
Rob Gibson

1 From:

Sent: Wednesday, May 7, 2025 10:40 AM
To: City Council (San Mateo)
Subject: FW:Julie-- TODAY! PLEASE WRITE COUNCIL: [email protected] Hi—While I wait for your call back to see how you’re doing…..

Here’s my brief response—they have 12 letters supporting him. They need a number against him—this guy is vicious!
Earlier Council supporter was a big Union guy, and not much public outrage over the election sign stealing. The back stabbing General Plan presentation end-run when he didn’t get his way was outrageous! Use my words or reopen you own.

[email protected]

Please do not reappoint Adam Newsom to the Planning Commission. His ongoing actions have created controversy and distrust, and he has lost the respect of San Mateo residents, staff and general City government. San Mateo has many challenges. Effective m anagement requires coordination and trust to work
successfully. Mr. Newsom has lost respect and credibility and can not longer effectively hold the seat.

Please select someone else from the other qualified candidates.

Respectfully, Carol Gillett

From Lisa Tanner—downtown citizen advocate. From: Lisa Taner Sent: Wednesday, May 7, 2025 8:30 AM
To: undisclosed-recipients:

Subject: Fwd: TODAY! PLEASE WRITE COUNCIL

Hello! I am reaching out last minute to friends to ask that as soon as you receive this email please send an email into the city council to ask them not to allow planning commissioner Adam Nugent to remain in his seat.

That seat is up for Renewal and tonight will be the decision but he's got about 12 letters supporting him from his pro development cronies.

This is the same guy who removed our current mayors campaign signs illegally and nothing was done about it because he had friends on the council at that time. This is the same guy who tried to get the state to disapprove what our city submitted for housing in order to allow developers free reign.

If you want to read more below, here is a post I made the other day but please just send in your email asking that Council choose from the many other applicants rather than renew Adam's seat when he has already broken down public trust.

[email protected]
Thank you!

2 -----

SHAKE IT UP – TAKE YOUR DIRTY DEEDS ELSEWHERE

Bad people stay in power when other bad people help them to do so. LET'S HOPE THIS WEEK SHAKES THINGS UP for San Mateo.

On May 7th, Mayor Rob Newsom joins councilmembers Cwirko-Godycki, Fernandez and Loraine to interview prospects for the Planning Commission. One of them is "No Ethics" Nugent, a currently serving Planning Commissioner, reinterviewing to stay in his seat. Does he deserve it? NOPE.

I bring you back to the recent history of 2022, when City Hall was filled with ne'er-do-wells who did what they wished, including Planning Commissioner Adam Nugent. He relied on 3 friends on the Council who consistently chose to look the other way.

In November of 2022, then Councilmember Eric Rodriguez joined Diane Papan in asking for an investigation of Nugent after the second time he went rogue that year:
"Public confidence in San Mateo's Planning Commission is falling fast and might be at an all-time low."

So, what did Nugent do?

It began in April, 2022. As an appointed Planning Commissioner, many were aghast to learn that Nugent submitted a 72-page PowerPoint to the State of California to undermine the City of San Mateo. He did this working from his City email, trampling all over City staff who'd spent years working to comply with the State's housing mandate. Nugent's dismantling handiwork, completely out of line with his duties, was meant to effectively convince the State to place San Mateo in the crosshairs of unchecked development.

So, what happened to Commissioner Nugent for this audacious act? Nothing. Maybe the City was busy trying to convince the State that Nugent's PowerPoint shouldn't override their own, but more likely it was due to his Council cronies wanting Nugent to remain in his seat. No slap on the wrist, no removal, no nothing. (FYI: It takes 4 Council votes to remove a commissioner.)

Parents know when bad behavior goes unpunished, a child will feel emboldened and repeat the pattern.

Fast forward to October 2022 when Nugent's next move was referred to the District Attorney.*

Let's talk about campaign tampering. Political campaign signs are a form of speech protected under the First Amendment - but that didn't matter to Nugent. He removed campaign signs. More specifically he removed only Rob Newsom's signs, a council candidate he did not support - and left others alone. Trouble was, it was caught on camera. It was only when radio station KCBS called Nugent that he admitted what he had done - but
because he thought the signs were placed improperly, he said. Which makes zero sense as to why he would not take the adjacent signs. I guess he hoped we'd all buy his story.

Nugent did a little dance, as did his Council supporters when Councilmembers Papan and Rodriguez urged there be a fact-finding investigation to satisfy the public outcry. The San Mateo Police Department looked into 3 the matter and the Chief reported it had "resulted in sufficient criminal evidence that the case has been forwarded to the DA."

A normally good-natured Rob Newsom (now our Mayor) responded:
"This (sign stealing) story has been airing all day today on KCBS Radio. As a Personnel Board Commissioner, I am saddened that a fellow City Commissioner (Adam Nugent) would take it upon himself to remove/steal my signs in broad daylight- with his child in-tow. I had hoped that he would just come forward and apologize. He has not."

So, what do we want? Ethics? Social media screams for it all the time. Ethics San Mateo, a citizen group, was formed in October 2022 due to much of this nonsense, but not surprisingly got no traction with our then- Council.

But here is the GOOD news. Our current Council is slated to review recommendations by Ethics San Mateo to strengthen and support ethical conduct in City Hall - INCLUDING COMMISSIONERS. But let's go one better - Let's CLEAN HOUSE.

People like Adam Nugent have been allowed to sit in important seats and make decisions for us all when it's very clear HIS decision-
making is questionable at best. While time may have dulled the bite of Nugent's brazen actions and his cronies have since fallen mostly by the wayside, Councilmember Rodriguez' words about public confidence should still be ringing loudly.

I say this: ADAM NUGENT, YOUR TERM IS UP.

Now let's hope the Council says the same.
---------
*Good-natured Newsom did not press charges and therefore the DA did not pursue the case against Nugent.

Parents know when bad behavior goes unpunished, a child will feel emboldened and repeat the pattern.

Fast forward to October 2022 when Nugent's next move was referred to the District Attorney.*

Let's talk about campaign tampering. Political campaign signs are a form of speech protected under the First Amendment - but that didn't matter to Nugent. He removed campaign signs. More specifically he removed only Rob Newsom's signs, a council candidate he did not support - and left others alone. Trouble was, it was 4 caught on camera. It was only when radio station KCBS called Nugent that he admitted what he had done - but because he thought the signs were placed improperly, he said. Which makes zero sense as to why he would not take the adjacent signs. I guess he hoped we'd all buy his story.

Nugent did a little dance, as did his Council supporters when Councilmembers Papan and Rodriguez urged there be a fact-finding investigation to satisfy the public outcry. The San Mateo Police Department looked into the matter and the Chief reported it had "resulted in sufficient criminal evidence that the case has been forwarded to the DA."

I say this: ADAM NUGENT, YOUR TERM IS UP.

1 From:

Sent: Wednesday, May 7, 2025 12:35 PM
To: City Council (San Mateo)
Subject: Pleae do NOT reappoint Adam Nugent
Mayor and Council,

Tonight you will interview for a potential vacancy on the Planning Commission. While I know that, historically, there is a strong tendancy to reappoint an incumbent, in the case of Adam Nugent this would be a mistake. His past actions, especially in 2022, demonstrate that he is not someone in whom San Mateans can place their trust. You should not, either.

Adam's contact with the state while we were developing our Housing Element, completely undercutting the extensive work done by our city staff, was unconscionable. And don't get me started
on his pathetic "excuses" as to why he stole campaign signs supporting our current mayor.

I proudly served on the Planning Commission from 1975-1981 and again from 1993-2001. I served with people who strongly espoused a variety of positions and approaches to our city's future. I understand what legitimate disagreements look like. That is not w hat we are talking about here. I also
understand when someone does not measure up to what the city's residents and leaders should expect from its commissioners.

Adam Nugent does not measure up. Please do not re-appoint him.

Karen Herrel
resident since 1963

From: Jon New
To: Clerk; City Council (San Mateo)
Subject: City Council, I really hope you consider keeping Adam Nugent on the Planning Commission. Having experience on both the General Plan Subcommittee and Commission is incredibly useful.

Date: Tuesday, May 6, 2025 10:10:38 PM
Dear City Council,
I’m writing to express my strong support for Adam Nugent’s reappointment to the Planning Commission.

Adam has already served the city with dedication in this role and on the General Plan Subcommittee, contributing meaningfully to complex and often contentious discussions. He listens carefully, considers a wide range of perspectives, and offers well-reasoned responses that elevate the conversation, even on the occasions where I disagree . His experience is an asset, and his thoughtful approach brings value to the commission’s work.

Continuity and experience matter, particularly in planning issues that impact the long-term future of our community. I believe Adam’s continued presence on the commission would serve the city well.

Thank you for your consideration.

Sincerely,
Jonathan New
1 From: Chuck Kabala < >
Sent: Wednesday, May 7, 2025 9:16 AM
To: City Council (San Mateo)
Subject: Planning Commissioner Seat
Dear City Council Members, As a long time San Mateo resident I've seen our city change over the years, and not always for the better. I believe we could get a "better" planning commissioner rather than allowing Adam Nugent to continue in this role. He has lost the trust of many residents with his shenanigans and I respectfully ask you to choose from the other qualified applicants.

Sincerely,

Beth Kabala

1 From:

Sent: Wednesday, May 7, 2025 12:41 PM
To: City Council (San Mateo)
Subject: Adam Nugent
Please do not appoint Adam Nugent to the Planning Commission. He has lost credibility and trust and should no longer hold this hold this seat on the Council.

Carol P. Kalb

1 From: Adam Klafter < >
Sent: Tuesday, May 6, 2025 5:40 PM
To: Clerk
Cc: City Council (San Mateo)
Subject: Re: Planning Commission appointments
Mayor, Deputy Mayor, honorable members of City Council, I wanted to write a brief letter in support of Adam Nugent’s reappointment to the San Mateo Planning Commission for another term. Over the last several years, Adam contributed to the development of our city’s housing element and design standards, and currently serves as Vice Chair. While there has been a relative lull at the Planning Commission since the latter half of 2024, my expectation is that this will soon change as a significant number of building applications make their way through the planning process. As we begin to see those projects in front of the commission, I believe that Adam’s expertise and tenure on the commission will be an asset to our deliberations and the commission’s ability to respond in a constructive way to community concerns. In my observations prior to my own appointment, and since that time in my direct interactions, I consider Adam to be incisive in his comments, respectful of different points of view and genuine in his commitment to San Mateo.

Respectfully,
-Adam Klafter

1 From: Deborah Kohn < >
Sent: Wednesday, May 7, 2025 11:26 AM
To: City Council (San Mateo)
Subject: Planning Commissioner Adam Nugent
City Council Members:

As a San Mateo resident for over 30 years, I am writing to ask you to PLEASE NOT renew Planning Commissioner Adam Nugent's seat on the Planning Commission and to choose from the many other very qualified applicants!

Sincerely,

Deborah Kohn

1 From: Yi-ting Lin >
Sent: Wednesday, May 7, 2025 10:27 AM
To: City Council (San Mateo)
Subject: Please do NOT renew Adam Nugent for planning commissioner Dear San Mateo City Council,

I am sending this email to advocate NOT to renew Adam Nugent as our planning commissioner. He is unethical in many incidents that were being reported and she should not serve for San Mateo.

thanks,
17 years San Mateo resident
Yi-ting

1 From: Julia
Sent: Wednesday, May 7, 2025 11:22 AM
To: City Council (San Mateo)
Subject: Adam Nugent conflict of interest
Dear Councilmembers,

We are in dire need of new people on the Planning Commission.

An appointee such as Adam Nugent is not acceptable! A commissioner should NEVER be part of a strong special interest group like California Yimby, the labor union, etc. This is a serious conflict of interest that has gone on for way too long.

Beyond the above, Mr. Nugent has shown his poor ethics and integrity repeatedly. To the dismay of many in the community, his then-cronies on the Council chose to do absolutely nothing. Diane Papan and Eric Rodriquez were the only ones who fought for investigations and that was the absolute right thing to do.

It's time to do the right thing NOW. Purge our important commissions of special interest people; purge the Planning Commission of a commissioner who already got his 'second chance' and still proved to be unfit for his seat. There are many other candidates that are better suited to the position who are ethical and have integrity, and who do not have conflicts of interests.

Our city deserves all new commissioners that that will serve with transparency, ethics, and integrity.

Sincerely,
Julia Lovotti

1 From: Margaret Williams
Sent: Wednesday, May 7, 2025 11:03 AM
To: City Council (San Mateo); Clerk
Cc: Zachary Dahl
Subject: Comments for Planning Commissioner Interviews
Dear Appointment Subcommittee and City Council Members,

I’m writing to provide my comments in advance of the Planning Commissioner Interviews today. I would like to express my support for Adam Nugent, current Planning Commissioner, and to recommend that you reappoint him as a Planning Commissioner for a second term. Adam has a breadth of knowledge about design, architecture, landscape design, plants and horticulture, housing, aƯordable housing, and the processes that go into development of a project. Adam is a Landscape Architect, and he brings that knowledge to land use planning.

I’ve
seen from working with Adam on the Planning Commission are that he sees the big picture AND he sees the details. He comes to each meeting well prepared and informed about the project and I often learn something during the course of his comments on a project. Adam is an objective and fair- minded person, and he thoughtfully
considers how things aƯect the Applicant and any speakers from the public that are opposed to a project.

I wholeheartedly recommend you appoint Adam Nugent to Planning Commissioner for a second term.

Thank you,

Margaret Williams
Planning Commissioner, City of San Mateo

1 From: Nathan Chan < >
Sent: Wednesday, May 7, 2025 9:15 AM
To: Clerk
Subject: Comment in support of Commissioner Nugent's Reappointment Dear Appointment Subcommittee,

Though I am a member of the Millbrae Planning Commission, I want to emphasize that I only offer these comments on my own behalf.

I would urge you to consider reappointing Adam Nugent to the San Mateo Planning Commission. I have known Adam for almost 5 years, through multiple community-based organizations such as Sierra Club.

Adam has consistently demonstrated a commitment to community service, knowledge of the issues, and an ability to get things done.

When I asked other San Mateo County Planning Commissioners how to think about articulated facades in residential design standards, Adam referred me to San Mateo's multi-family design standards, specifically the Flat Plane Variation. To me, this demonstrates that he can work together with the other Commissioners to create a menu of policy alternatives that will support the development of well- designed and abundant multi-family housing. We need leaders like Adam in our community.

Nathan Chan

1 From: Rich Neve
Sent: Wednesday, May 7, 2025 12:10 PM
To: City Council (San Mateo)
Subject: Planning commissioner renewal
Dear City Council Members,

First, thank you for your service. A balanced and thoughƞul council is important for our city to grow and evolve in an ever moving poliƟcal and social landscape.

It is my understanding that the council will soon be considering renewal of Adam Nugent’s posiƟon as commissioner on the city’s planning commission.

I would respecƞully urge the members of our council to consider other candidates for this role. I think there are enough ethical quesƟons around Mr. Nugent’s acƟons that allowing him to remain on the commission is an endorsement of poor judgement and unethical behavior. We need to be beƩer. We need new blood and new ideas.

Best regards
Rich Neve

1 From: Christie Ricci
Sent: Wednesday, May 7, 2025 10:26 AM
To: City Council (San Mateo)
Subject: No on Nugent!
Dear SM City Council Members,

I am writing to implore you to NOT renew Adam Nugent's seat. As a 29 year resident of San Mateo, I am disappointed to see the council look the other way when it comes to Nugent 's ethics. He sets a bad example, and is a poor representative of San Mateo's high standards!

Do the RIGHT THING and do NOT RENEW his seat. To do otherwise, makes the council complicit.

Thank you,
Christie Ricci

From: Dave Santos < >
Sent: Wednesday, May 7, 2025 3:03 PM
To: City Council (San Mateo)
Subject: Planning Commissioner Selection
Dear Council Members:

I am writing to request that you do not consider reappointing Adam Nugent as Planning Commissioner.

My concerns about this reappointment center on his pro development advocacy as well as election misbehavior.

Mr. Nugent’s Power Point to the State of California undermining the City of San Mateo initially comes to mind. The second area of concern is campaign tampering and removal of signage.

It is my understanding that City Council is reviewing recommendations by Ethics San Mateo to strengthen and support ethical conduct in City Hall. It is time to hold people accountable and not select Mr. Nugent for Planning Commissioner based on his prior behavior and actions.

You have an opportunity to reestablish public confidence in city government by selecting another candidate that is qualified and does not have a hidden agenda and as much negative baggage.

Thank you for your consideration in this matter.

Sincerely,

Dave Santos

1 From: Seema Patel < >
Sent: Wednesday, May 7, 2025 12:02 AM
To: Clerk
Cc: City Council (San Mateo)
Subject: Support for Reappointing Adam Nugent
Hello City Council,

Although I currently serve on the San Mateo Planning Commission, I am writing on my own behalf as a resident.

I wanted to express my support for Adam Nugent's reappointment to the Planning Commission. Adam's lifelong commitment to public service is evident in the dedication and work ethic he brings to the Planning Commission. He takes the position very seriously and invests a great deal of time into thoroughly preparing for every agenda item. (He proactively familiarizes himself with local and state regulations and takes advantage of resources like handbooks and trainings to further his knowledge.) His deep research is evident in the solutions he brings to the dais and the information he shares with staff, commissioners and the public.

Adam is a thoughtful listener who navigates complex issues and detailed conversations with nuance and ease. He is willing to ask tough questions and prioritize long-term outcomes with the greatest benefit to the community over short-term or popular fixes. He routinely advocates for the right decision, not the easy one.

There is no other person who tries harder to find and implement the best solutions for San Mateo. (As an example, he took Santa Barbara's Objective Design Standards - an industry benchmark - and created a detailed guide demonstrating how they could be adapted for San Mateo. That effort became the impetus for San Mateo's Downtown Plan Area Objective Design Standards.) His guidance, ideas and suggestions have immeasurably benefitted both the General Plan Subcommittee and the Planning Commission.

The time horizon of projects, plans and policies that are brought before the Planning Commission often spans years. With two vacancies at present, the commission would greatly benefit from the continuity of Adam's service.

Thank you for your consideration!

Regards,
Seema Patel

1 From: Andrew Sevillia
Sent: Wednesday, May 7, 2025 8:19 AM
To: [email protected]
Subject: Please Do Not Reappoint Adam Nugent to the San Mateo Planning Commission Dear Mayor and City Council Members,
I am writing to express my strong opposition to the reappointment of Adam Nugent to the San Mateo Planning Commission.

While Mr. Nugent may have vocal support from pro-development allies, that should not outweigh his history of troubling behavior and questionable judgment—particularly in a role that demands integrity, impartiality, and respect for our city processes.

In 2022, Mr. Nugent was involved in an incident where he removed campaign signs for our now-mayor from public property. He claimed the signs were placed in the public right-of-way and that he was trying to “protect” the candidate from potential penalties. This justification does not excuse his unilateral and unauthorized actions. The matter was serious enough to warrant a police investigation, and a report was submitted to the San Mateo County District Attorney's Office for review. Yet, despite this, no accountability followed—likely due to Mr. Nugent’s connections with then-Council allies. This raises serious concerns about fairness and transparency.

Further, as a member of the General Plan Subcommittee, Mr. Nugent actively sought to have the state reject the city’s Housing Element submission. This move would have stripped San Mateo of local control and invited overreach by developers—benefiting private interests at the expense of thoughtful, community-driven planning.

The role of a Planning Commissioner is to balance growth with the needs and values of residents—not to tip the scales toward outside interests or act as a political operative. San Mateo deserves commissioners who uphold ethical standards and who serve the public, not just a narrow constituency.

For these reasons, I respectfully urge you to vote no on Adam Nugent’s reappointment.

Sincerely,

Andrew Sevillia

Regards,

Andrew Sevillia

1 From: Karen S
Sent: Wednesday, May 7, 2025 9:15 AM
To: City Council (San Mateo)
Subject: Planning Commission seat - request
Dear City Council,

I respectfully ask you not to renew Adam Nugent's term and to place one of the other candidates as Commissioner. I was greatly disheartened by his sign removal actions as well as his acting against City interests when interfacing with the State. He is not an individual who behaves with the integrity the position requires and should not be placed in a role with the ability to continue his untoward actions. A Commissioner must represent/liaise properly and must be above reproach.

Thank you.

Sincerely,
Karen Sid

1 From: Kathy Spiteri
Sent: Wednesday, May 7, 2025 11:41 AM
To: City Council (San Mateo)
Subject: Nugent
Please do not renew Nugent for his seat. There are other applicants that should have a chance.

1 From: Lisa Taner
Sent: Wednesday, May 7, 2025 10:44 AM
To: City Council (San Mateo)
Cc: Clerk
Subject: Planning Commission Needs New Faces, Not Special Interests Dear Councilmembers,

When the White House has a new administration, they make sweeping changes in the folks who serve them. It's now time for new faces on the Planning Commission.

One reason for my faith in local government to be at an all time low is appointees like Adam Nugent.

Never should a commissioner be part of a strong special interest group like California Yimby, the labor union, etc. It is a serious conflict of interest.

As if that isn't enough, Nugent has shown his poor ethics and integrity again and again. Sadly, his then- cronies on the Council chose to do nothing. Diane Papan and Eric Rodriquez were the only ones who fought for investigations and that was the right thing to do.

It's again time to do the right thing. Purge our important commissions of special interest people. Purge the Planning Commission of a commissioner who already got his 'second chance' and still proved to be unfit for his seat. You have many other good choices.

I hope to have my faith and the faith of much of our citizenry renewed by your decisions for all new commissioners.

Thank you.

Lisa Taner

1 From:

Sent: Wednesday, May 7, 2025 2:48 PM
To: City Council (San Mateo); Alex Khojikian; Clerk
Subject: Strong Opposition to the Reappointment of Adam Nugent to the San Mateo City Planning Commission
Dear Honorable Mayor and Councilmembers, City Manager, and City Clerk:

I write to express my strong opposition to the reappointment of Adam Nugent to the San Mateo City Planning Commission.

Planning Commissioners hold positions of public trust. They are expected to uphold the highest standards of ethical conduct and maintain public conﬁdence through transparency, impartiality, and integrity. Unfortunately, Mr. Nugent’s past actions have undermined that trust and demonstrated a concerning pattern of behavior unbecoming of an appointed city oƯicial.

Mr. Nugent was caught removing campaign signs belonging to a city council candidate running against his preferred choice. He provided no explanation despite multiple inquiries. It wasn’t until the story ran publicly that he issued a statement — not to apologize, but to justify his conduct with excuses that many residents found implausible. His delayed and defensive response only intensiﬁed public concern.

Further, his explanation — invoking his role as a neighborhood association president or a licensed landscape architect — does not excuse the clear appearance of election interference. Even if the signs had been improperly placed, it was not his responsibility to remove them, particularly during an active campaign season in which neutrality should be paramount.

This incident is not isolated. Residents have previously expressed alarm over dismissive and accusatory rhetoric from commissioners during public meetings. Accusations of racism directed at constituents, ﬂippant remarks, and general disrespect have no place in civic discourse — especially from those charged with guiding the future development of our community.

We need commissioners who foster unity and respect among residents — not those who stoke division or wield their inﬂuence inappropriately.

The City’s Planning Commission must be composed of individuals who are beyond reproach and who understand the gravity of the role they serve. Reappointing Adam Nugent sends the wrong message to the community — that personal conduct and public trust are secondary to political alignment.

San Mateo deserves better. I urge you to uphold the integrity of our civic institutions and vote against Mr. Nugent’s reappointment.

Sincerely,
Taso Zografos
Resident, San Mateo

1 From: Bob Wackerman
Sent: Wednesday, May 7, 2025 1:03 PM
To: City Council (San Mateo)
Subject: Reject Adam Nugent
Dear San Mateo city council,
At tonight's council meeting you will be discussing renewing douchbag planning commissioner Adam Nugent's seat. Please vote no and allow any of the other candidates to succeed him.

The citizens of San Mateo don't need an unemployed landcape architect and self described activist against slower growth in our city government.

Regards,
Bob Wackerman

1 From: Jeffrey
Sent: Wednesday, May 7, 2025 12:10 PM
To: City Council (San Mateo)
Subject: Adam Nugent
Adam Nugent has repeatedly shown he is ethically unqualiﬁed to serve on the Planning Commission. Stealing candidates elecƟon signs and acƟvely working against the city to not approve its housing plan is proof.

Reject Adam Nugent for the Planning Commission.

Jeﬀ Wang
30+ year San Mateo Redident

Sent from my iPhone

1 From: Gary Weber < >
Sent: Wednesday, May 7, 2025 3:11 PM
To: City Council (San Mateo)
Subject: Adam Nugent
Please do not allow Adam Nugent to be reappointed to the Planning commission! For too long, the city has been run by big developers who could care less what the citizens of the city want! They don’t even live in our city, most probably! Enough is enough with deception and ignoring the will of the people!

Nancy Weber

1 From: Michael < >
Sent: Wednesday, May 7, 2025 10:16 AM
To: City Council (San Mateo)
Cc: Clerk; Alex Khojikian
Subject: Planning Commissioner Interviews
Honorable Mayor and Councilmembers -

As you approach the upcoming Planning Commissioner interviews, I'm writing to encourage you to expressly weed out activist applicants who can’t put aside their biases in favor of what the city as a whole wants/needs. You have all seen the damage activist insiders have done to San Mateo, reputationally, trust, and otherwise creating division within the city. To them the ends justifies the means (ie stealing signs or writing the HCD directly to tank our housing element), and if you’re not with them ideologically, you’re dismissed as just wrong and/or racist, and/or too old to matter, etc.

It's hard enough to balance the influence of special interests externally without having those same forces working against residents and council/staff internally as well. We need reasonable, ethical people who aren’t in cahoots with developers and special interests, or caught up in extreme movements, and who will set their personal leanings aside in favor of what’s best for the entire community, not just their supporters.

Please get applicants on the record as to their involvement in activist orgs, and how they would balance that, or distance themselves from those in these roles, and make a commitment to enforcing an ethics code that will hold them accountable for their actions, up to and including removal from their role.

This should not be a ballot-type consideration, ie, where the person who gets the most letters "wins".

This is about doing the right thing and governing properly. Many of you ran and received broad support for fighting against the corruption and chaos sown by prior activist councilmembers. This is one of you big opportunities to right those wrongs and restore trust and confidence in the city of San Mateo from its residents.

Thank you for listening - Michael Weinhauer

1 From: Connie Weiss
Sent: Wednesday, May 7, 2025 12:56 PM
To: City Council (San Mateo)
Subject: Planning Commission Candidate Adam Nugent
Hello Mayor Newsom and Councilmembers,

When the two newest council members were seated in December, the feeling of relief and hope was evident in the room. It was if a cloud had been lifted, and we could move forward with the establishment of good ethical behavior that we had not seen in several prior Councils.

With Adam Nugent’s application to be reappointed to the Planning Commission, standards of ethical behavior will once again will be in danger.

Adam has shown his inability for ethical behavior in not one, but two, concrete instances during his first tenure on the Commission. I hope you haven’t forgotten them: the first was stealing candidate Rob Newsom‘s campaign signs, and the second was an audacious 70+ PowerPoint sent to the state undermining the work and agreement of city staff and Council on San Mateo’s housing plan. Because
we have had a history of unethical behavior on previous City Councils, Adam was never held accountable for these two extremely serious acts. You, as leaders in the City, have the perfect opportunity to say, No More!

The Planning Commission has been under siege for several years with Commissioners who have no respect for residents or the health of this city. What they do have is a personal agenda that ignores resident concerns and has deeply hurt the city. We we see this in play with several blocks of empty lots, empty buildings, and new buildings which do not fit in with the architecture that has made this city such a beautiful place to live. Adam has been a key participant in all of this.

I hope you will agree that San Mateo deserves better and will look for Commissioners that exhibit high ethical standards and do not carry a personal agenda that will undermine the will of San Mateo’s residents and leadership.

Thank you,

Connie Weiss
San Mateo resident

1 From: Connie Weiss <c >
Sent: Wednesday, May 7, 2025 1:04 PM
To: City Council (San Mateo)
Subject: Planning Commission Candidate Caiti Busch
Hello Mayor Newsom and Councilmembers,

Please do not consider Caiti Busch for a Planning Commissioner seat. We have a unique opportunity to ensure newly appointed Commissioners carry no personal agendas or biases. Ms. Busch is a very active housing advocate that seems closely aligned with organizations that ignore a City’s real needs in housing, and work closely with developers to simply overbuild and undermine the quality of our City’s character and needs.

She is also closely associated with Stonewall Democrats; she is the organization’s Co- Chair. Unfortunately, this organization seems to be influenced by Commissioner Seema Patel as Ms. Patel lied to them, making a personal comment against me, saying I was homophobic. Stonewall Democrats never reached out to me for any comment, but repeated the lie on their Facebook page. Clearly Ms. Busch should have culpability in allowing the actions of an organization of which she is in the leadership. It is outrageous that a sitting member of the San Mateo Personnel Board thinks it’s OK to defame a resident, and it concerns me deeply if Ms. Busch is associated at all with Ms. Patel.

With the number of very well qualified candidates, it’s better not to take a risk on Ms. Busch and instead seat someone who we know with certainty will respect San Mateo residents and the character
and beauty of this city.

Thank you,

Connie Weiss
San Mateo resident

1 From: Bill Williams < >
Sent: Wednesday, May 7, 2025 11:52 AM
To: City Council (San Mateo)
Subject: Adam Nugent
City Council:

Please do not continue Adam Nugent's presence on the Planning Commission.

He sabotaged the city's Housing Plan submission to the State of California.

We now have a development oriented General Plan causing displacement of residents. x Bill Williams

1 From: Claudia M.

Sent: Wednesday, May 7, 2025 2:31 PM
To: City Council (San Mateo)
Subject: No Adam Nugent
When I learned about Adam Nugent, I decided to email our City Council. Please do not allow Adam Nugent to remain in his seat. Copied below covers it pretty well:

SHAKE IT UP – TAKE YOUR DIRTY DEEDS ELSEWHERE

Bad people stay in power when other bad people help them to do so. LET'S HOPE THIS WEEK SHAKES THINGS UP for San Mateo.

So, what did Nugent do?

So, what happened to Commissioner Nugent for this audacious act? Nothing. Maybe the City was busy trying to convince the State that Nugent's PowerPoint shouldn't override their own, but more likely it was due to his Council cronies wanting Nugent to remain in his seat. No slap on the wrist, no removal, no nothing.
(FYI: It takes 4 Council votes to remove a commissioner.)

Parents know when bad behavior goes unpunished, a child will feel emboldened and repeat the pattern.

Fast forward to October 2022 when Nugent's next move was referred to the District Attorney.*

2 removed only Rob Newsom's signs, a council candidate he did not support - and left others alone.

Trouble was, it was caught on camera. It was only when radio station KCBS called Nugent that he admitted what he had done - but because he thought the signs were placed improperly, he said. Which makes zero sense as to why he would not take the adjacent signs. I guess he hoped we'd all buy his story.

Nugent did a little dance, as did his Council supporters when Councilmembers Papan and Rodriguez urged there be a fact-finding investigation to satisfy the public outcry. The San Mateo Police Department looked into the matter and the Chief reported it had "resulted in sufficient criminal evidence that the case has been forwarded to the DA."

People like Adam Nugent have been allowed to sit in important seats and make decisions for us all when it's very clear HIS decision-making is questionable at best. While time may have dulled the bite of Nugent's brazen actions and his cronies have since fallen mostly by the wayside, Councilmember Rodriguez' words about public confidence should still be ringing loudly.

I say this: ADAM NUGENT, YOUR TERM IS UP.

Now let's hope the Council says the same.
---------
*Good-natured Newsom did not press charges and therefore the DA did not pursue the case against Nugent.

“I have always loved the beach. The smell of the salty water, the wind in my face, the gentle roar of the waves all combine to create a sense of peace and calm.” -- Anonymous

2  Impartiality, free from bias toward specific agendas (e.g., bike lanes, housing policies), to ensure fair and balanced evaluations.

The selection of Planning Commission members is a pivotal decision that will influence San Mateo’s future. I respectfully urge you to appoint individuals who embody the qualifications outlined above and whose conduct reflects the trust placed in them by our community. By prioritizing integrity, expertise, and impartiality, you can ensure the commission upholds San Mateo’s values and fosters responsible development.

Thank you for your time and thoughtful consideration.

Sincerely,

Laurie Hietter

--
Laurie
1 From: Linda Tribuzi
Sent: Wednesday, May 7, 2025 3:45 PM
To: City Council (San Mateo)
Subject: Feedback
Hello City Council,
I am sending this email to send my support to not allow planning commissioner Adam Nugent to remain in his seat.

Regards,
Linda Tribuzi

From: Thomas Gillett
Sent: Wednesday, May 7, 2025 11:06 AM
To: City Council (San Mateo)
Subject: Need new Planning Commissioner
Adam Nugent's actions over the past few years have made him ineffective. The position requires credibility and success in working with community, staff, fellow Commissioners and Council members. Mr Newsom has lost trust and credibility and can no longer hold the seat. It is in the best interest of San Mateo to appoint a new member to the Planning Commission.

Sincerely, Tom Gillett

San Mateo City CouncilMay 7, 2025

San Mateo City Council
May 7, 2025