South San Francisco · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in South San Francisco public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
FY 2026-27 Operating Budget and Use of Reserves
The city faces a $5 million ongoing deficit and debated whether to put a sales tax (about $30 million) or parcel tax ($14-18 million) on the 2026 ballot. The council couldn't agree and punted to a longer planning process, with cuts and cost-recovery changes possible in the meantime.
Vehicle License Fee shortfall threatens city services
The state is shorting the city millions in vehicle license fee backfill — $5 million last year against a $12 million entitlement — and a lawsuit against the state is in early stages. It's the biggest financial wildcard facing the city.
1051 Mission Road (PUC Site) affordable housing project
The 800-unit PUC site project — including 158 affordable units, a childcare center, parks, and a Colma Creek bridge — has been stalled since 2019. The council rewrote the deal after Bridge Housing withdrew, freeing $14.6 million in fees as a last-dollar backstop and extending the timeline to 2032 so state grant applications in May can proceed.
Air quality in east South San Francisco
Councilmember Flores highlighted state data showing his district's census tracts rank worst in San Mateo County for pollution burden, with the highest asthma hospitalization rates. The council agreed to make air quality the top new priority in the 2026 action plan and to pursue an AB 617 disadvantaged community designation.