CITY OF SAN MATEO
City Council Special Meeting
October 6, 2025
5:30 PM
City Hall Council Chamber
Entrance is on O’Farrell Street
COUNCIL MEMBERS
Robert Newsom Jr.
Adam Loraine
Nicole Fernandez
Danielle Cwirko-Godycki
Lisa Diaz Nash
AGENDA
THIS MEETING CAN BE ATTENDED IN PERSON OR REMOTE BY JOINING ZOOM – SEE CODES BELOW.
PUBLIC COMMENTS WILL BE ACCEPTED BOTH IN PERSON AND REMOTELY .
SEE END OF AGENDA FOR OPTIONS AND INSTRUCTIONS ON HOW TO PARTICIPATE IN THE MEETING.
To join via Zoom – click here:
O
ctober 6, 2025
To join via telephone: (408) 638-0968
Webinar ID: 880 7618 6915 Passcode: 562678
Council Member Lisa Diaz Nash will be participating remotely from the following location:
Business Center, Outrigger Wikiki Beachcomber Hotel, 2300 Kalakaua Ave., Honolulu, Hawaii
CALL TO ORDER
Roll Call
AB 2449 Requests and Consideration for Meeting Participation by Teleconference due to Just Cause or Emergency Circumstances
CLOSED SESSION
The public will have an opportunity to comment before the consideration of these items. Following the meeting a report of action from Closed Session will be provided if required.
1. Conference with Legal Counsel – Anticipated Litigation Significant exposure to litigation pursuant to paragraph (2) of subdivision (d) of Section 54956.9 One case (Claim of Myers & Sons Construction, LLC)
2. Conference with Legal Counsel – Anticipated Litigation Initiation of litigation pursuant to paragraph (4) of subdivision (d) of Section 54956.9: Two cases
3. Conference with Legal Counsel – Existing Litigation
(Paragraph (1) of subdivision (d) of Section 54956.9) Cant v. City of San Mateo et al. (U.S. Dist. Court Case No. 3:25-cv-02473-CRB
4. Conference with Legal Counsel – Anticipated Litigation Initiation of litigation pursuant to paragraph (4) of subdivision (d) of Section 54956.9: One case
STUDY SESSION
The public will have an opportunity to comment during the consideration of this item.
5. San Mateo Area Chamber of Commerce: 2025-26 Work Plan — Presentation
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Receive a presentation from the San Mateo Area Chamber of Commerce on the 2025-26 Work Plan.
CEQA: This item is not a project subject to CEQA, because it is an organizational or administrative activity that will not result in direct or indirect physical changes in the environment. (CEQA Guidelines Section 15378(b)(5).)
ADJOURNMENT
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- AGENDAS:
Agendas and material are posted on the City’s website on the Friday preceding each Council Meeting and can be viewed on the City's website at
www.cityofsanmateo.org
. Any supplemental material distributed to the Council after the posting of the agenda will be made part of the official record.
WATCHING A MEETING ON TV:
City Council meetings are broadcast live on Comcast/channel 27, Wave/channel 26, or AT&T/channel 99.
For transmission problems during the broadcast, please call (650) 522-7099. For all other broadcast comments, call (650) 522-7040, Monday-Friday, 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.
WATCHING A MEETING ON A COMPUTER:
There are three ways to stream.
1) Public Meeting Portal
www.cityofsanmateo.org/publicmeetings
2) City YouTube channel and stream it on YouTube:
http://youtube.com/CityofSanMateo
3) Watch TV live stream:
https://www.cityofsanmateo.org/193/Channel-San-Mateo-Live-Stream
PUBLIC COMMENTS/REQUEST TO SPEAK
Prior to the Meeting
Send comments to:
[email protected]
until 4 p.m. the day of the meeting.
During the meeting
By Zoom:
Click the link at the top of the agenda and you’ll be added to the meeting. All attendees are muted by default. When the item of interest is open for consideration, select the “Raise Your Hand” icon and you will be called on at the appropriate time.
By telephone:
Call (408) 638-0968 and enter the conference ID found at the top of the meeting agenda. When the item of interest is open for consideration, select *9 to raise your hand. When called upon, press *6 to unmute, state your name and provide your comments.
In Person:
At the meeting complete a “Request to Speak” form. Organized Group and Presentations: Up to five (5) minutes for a group presentation, with as many speakers as can be accommodated within that time allowance. To qualify for a group presentation, all individuals associated with the presentation must be clearly identified and confirmed as in attendance at the meeting. Presentation materials must be submitted to [email protected] one (1) business day in advance of the meeting.
ACCESSIBILITY:
In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act and to ensure meaningful access for all participants, including those with limited English proficiency, individuals requiring special accommodations or language assistance to participate in this meeting may contact the City Clerk’s Office at (650) 522-7040 or [email protected] . Notification 48 hours prior to the meeting will enable the City to make reasonable arrangements to ensure accessibility to this meeting.
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CITY OF SAN MATEO
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CITY OF SAN MATEO
Agenda Report
City Hall
330 W. 20th Avenue
San Mateo CA 94403
www.cityofsanmateo.org
Agenda Number: 5 Section Name: STUDY SESSION Account Number: 10-1311 File ID: 25-10444 TO: City Council
FROM: Alex Khojikian, City Manager
PREPARED BY: City Manager's Office
MEETING DATE: October 6, 2025
SUBJECT:
San Mateo Area Chamber of Commerce: 2025-26 Work Plan — Presentation RECOMMENDATION:
Receive a presentation from the San Mateo Area Chamber of Commerce on the 2025-26 Work Plan.
BACKGROUND:
Each year, the City of San Mateo contributes $90,000 to the San Mateo Area Chamber of Commerce in support of programs and initiatives that benefit local businesses and the broader community. The first $70,000 supports the primary Work Plan, which includes:
1. Business Attraction and Retention
2. Targeted Business District Activation
3. Civic Engagement and Workforce Development
4. Convening, Informing, and Policy Advocacy
These focus areas are generally longstanding but were further developed this year by the Chamber, in partnership with City staff, to foster a vibrant business community that supports the needs of its users, engages the community, and attracts visitors to the area. The work plan is included as Attachment 1.
The other $20,000 supports the Chamber’s LeadForward Program, which was retooled this past year to provide a forum for cross-sector relationship-building, partnerships, and mentorship for leaders throughout the area. As part of the City’s contribution, the program provides four slots and twelve executive coaching sessions to City leadership staff.
At the September 2 meeting, Council will also hear highlights from 2024/25, including the Best of San Mateo Area, the September Arts & Culture Fest, and feedback on the changes to LeadForward, which were well received by participants.
BUDGET IMPACT:
No impact – the annual contribution has already been budgeted and issued.
ENVIRONMENTAL DETERMINATION:
This item is not a project subject to CEQA, because it is an organizational or administrative activity that will not result in direct or indirect physical changes in the environment. (CEQA Guidelines Section 15378(b)(5).)
NOTICE PROVIDED
All meeting noticing requirements were met.
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ATTACHMENTS
Att 1 – FY 2025-26 Chamber Work Plan
STAFF CONTACT
Christina Horrisberger, Assistant City Manager
[email protected]
650-522-7210
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July 3, 2025
Alex Khojikian, City Manager
Christina Horrisberger, Assistant City Manager
City of San Mateo
330 W. 20th Avenue
San Mateo, California 94403
Re: FY 2025-26 Work Plan and Funding Proposal
Dear Alex and Christina,
It was a pleasure speaking with you both last week and sharing our proposed work plan for fiscal year 2025-26. As noted in our conversation, we've closely followed the City's progress on its economic development framework and have designed our plan to align with those priorities.
We believe our continued partnership will help to meaningfully advance your strategic goals-diversifying the economy, attracting and retaining businesses, and fostering sustainable economic growth.
We are truly grateful for the City's past support and are pleased to submit our request for continued investment at the $90,000 level.
Thank you again for your partnership and thoughtful consideration of this request.
Warm regar� f
�tNW))
Erica Wood
President & CEO
Attachment - FY 2025-26 Work Plan
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ATTACHMENT - FY 2025-26 PROPOSED WORK PLAN
FOR THE SAN MATEO AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
SUBMITTED TO THE CITY OF SAN MATEO
The San Mateo Area Chamber of Commerce (the Chamber) has outlined a proposed work plan for FY 2025–26 centered around four strategic focus areas: business attraction and retention; targeted activation of key business districts; civic engagement and workforce development; and convening, informing, and advocating on public policy. These priorities are designed to advance the City’s economic development goals while aligning with the Chamber’s mission to foster a vibrant local economy and community.
A summary of proposed activities under each focus area is provided below. These activities were initially presented at the June 24 meeting and have been refined based on feedback received during the meeting and further input from Chamber staff.
1. Business Attraction and Retention
1.1. Create an enhanced licensing and onboarding process for new businesses, including welcome kit with economic development resources accessible from the City and Chamber websites.
1.2. Provide high value business development services for members and non-members through quarterly webinars, 1:1 mentoring through the Chamber’s Business Assistance Center, monthly business-to-business referrals and networking opportunities and ribbon-cutting ceremonies.
1.3. Promote and connect minority- and women-owned businesses as well as age- friendly businesses with certification opportunities and resources.
1.4. Work with City on a shared early warning approach / communication process for troubled businesses, including those considering relocation.
1.5. Promote and celebrate business excellence through annual shop local campaign and Best of San Mateo Area awards celebration.
2. Targeted Business District Activation
2.1. Partner with City and DSMA on downtown planning, programs, and events (Farmer’s Market, September Nights on B Street, Lunar New Year and Boba Day) ; identify opportunities to include Latinx businesses and residents.
2.2. Help promote the Downtown Specific Plan process with Chamber members; ensure participation of local businesses to support City community outreach activities.
2.3. Develop and execute 3rd annual September Arts & Culture Fest event.
2.4. Expand businesses participating in the 25th Avenue Collective, guide and support planning of events, including Winter Wonder Walk.
2.5. Explore opportunities for public art in 1-2 business districts and ways to support / promote City’s Art in Public Places Program.
2.6. Pilot dedicated Facebook / Instagram page for 1-2 business districts (beyond downtown) to spotlight shops, cafes, restaurants, services, and experiences.
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ATTACHMENT - FY 2025-26 PROPOSED WORK PLAN
FOR THE SAN MATEO AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
SUBMITTED TO THE CITY OF SAN MATEO
3. Civic Engagement and Workforce Development
3.1. Plan and execute LeadForward 2026, including orientation kickoff meeting, 3-day retreat experience, and post-retreat dinner. Ensure participation of employees from larger companies (e.g., Roblox, Franklin Templeton, commercial developers).
3.2. Organize an annual community service project with Leadership alumni aligned with City opportunities and needs. Consult with City Manager’s Office and Community Relations Committee.
3.3. Partner with City to complete inventory of organizations and institutions providing workforce development programs within the City of San Mateo; make information available through City and Chamber websites.
3.4. Organize a job fair / career day to connect youth with local job opportunities in partnership with the City, College of San Mateo and local high schools.
4. Convening, Informing and Policy Advocacy
4.1. Hold monthly public policy committee meetings aligned with City priorities and initiatives, including potential sales tax measure.
4.2. Design and execute Good Morning San Mateo forum for business, government and community leaders focused on the economic outlook and major trends impacting San Mateo.
4.3. Organize 3-4 developer roundtable meetings to identify opportunities for commercial development process improvements.
4.4. Lead 1-2 strategic input sessions with larger firms to inform economic development plan (include gaming and fintech representatives).
4.5. Partner with SF Peninsula, San Mateo County Events Center and others to make San Mateo the place to host a major gaming and / or watch parties associated with next year’s NFL / FIFA sporting events.
Funding Justification
The Chamber is requesting $90,000 to help cover the direct program expenses associated with the activities listed above, including staff salaries and benefits, materials and supplies, event-related expenses (venue, food, vendors, and fees), marketing and communications (printing and social media), speaker honoraria and consultant support. The Chamber also raises funds from its business members, board members, sponsors, and grants to support these expenses.
The Chamber is pleased to name the City as a title sponsor for the September Arts & Culture Fest and provide associated benefits, including stage time and a complimentary booth, three Mayor-designated awards as part of the Best of San Mateo Area campaign a nd four complimentary spots for City staff in LeadForward 2026.
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City of San Mateo
City Council Meeting
POST PACKET
PUBLIC COMMENT
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ANNUAL UPDATE
October 6, 2025
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BUILDING MEMBER
MOMENTUM
$221,665
“Being part of BRN has
helped us get more business
and build strong relationships
-- not only work related but
friendships.”
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ENERGIZING OUR DOWNTOWNENERGIZING OUR DOWNTOWN
5,000
+
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NICOLE FERNANDEZ
District 2
DR. CHARLES HANSEN
District 2
DANIELLE CWIRKO-
GODYCKI
District 4
POLICY IN ACTIONPOLICY IN ACTION
7,015
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WHAT IT ISWHAT IT IS WHAT PARTICIPANTS GAINWHAT PARTICIPANTS GAIN •• A powerful networkA powerful network
•• Enhanced leadership skills Enhanced leadership skills •• Real-world impactReal-world impact
An immersive 3-day retreat with An immersive 3-day retreat with pre- and post-retreat gatherings and pre- and post-retreat gatherings and community service opportunitiescommunity service opportunities
LAUNCHINGLAUNCHING
LeadForward
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LEADFORWARD RESUL TSLEADFORWARD RESUL TS
100%
“The location was serene and folded
into the experience beautifully”
“The personal stories were
exceptional”
“Loved meeting leaders in my
community and the opportunities
for partnership and growth”
“I loved the workshops and left with
really tangible skills”
“It ignited my passion for becoming
more involved in community”
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BUSINESS AT ITS BEST
40,000
250-320
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Workplan
Focus Areas
2025-26
Business Attraction and Retention
Targeted Business District Activation
Civic Engagement and Workforce
Convening, Informing and Policy Advocacy
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Business
Attraction &
Retention
1. Launch enhanced licensing, welcome +
onboarding process
2. Offer high value business development
services
3. Support minority, women, and age-
friendly businesses
4. Coordinate with City on early outreach to
at-risk or relocating businesses
5. Celebrate business excellence through
Shop Local and Best of San Mateo Area
TO CREATE A THRIVING AND TO CREATE A THRIVING AND
RESILIENT LOCAL ECONOMYRESILIENT LOCAL ECONOMY
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Targeted Business
District
Activation
1. Partner with City and DSMA on downtown
planning & events
2. Produce annual September Arts & Culture Fest
3. Grow 25th Ave Collective & support events like
Winter Wonder Walk
4. Explore public art and placemaking strategies
in 1-2 business districts
5. Pilot dedicated social media page for 1-2
business districts
TO INCREASE ECONOMIC ACTIVITY TO INCREASE ECONOMIC ACTIVITY
AND VIBRANCYAND VIBRANCY
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Civic Engagement
& Workforce
1. Plan and execute LeadForward 2026
2. Host annual Leadership alumni service
project
3. Partner with City to complete inventory
of workforce development resources
4. Organize Youth Job Fair/Career Day with
City, CSM & local schools
TO DEVELOP LOCAL TALENT THAT TO DEVELOP LOCAL TALENT THAT
STRENGTHENS OUR BUSINESSES & STRENGTHENS OUR BUSINESSES &
COMMUNITYCOMMUNITY
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Convening,
Informing & Policy
Advocacy
1. Hold public policy committee meetings
aligned with City priorities
2. Execute “Good Morning San Mateo” forum
on key economic insights and trends
3. Hold developer roundtables to improve
processes
4. Lead business input sessions to further
inform economic development plan
TO RAISE AWARENESS, INCREASE TO RAISE AWARENESS, INCREASE
COLLABORATION AND INFLUENCE COLLABORATION AND INFLUENCE
POLICY DECISIONSPOLICY DECISIONS
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QUESTIONS?
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