Redwood City · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Redwood City public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Veterans Memorial/Senior Center demolition
The lowest bidder, Sandstone Environmental Engineering, got the $545,300 demolition contract for the old senior center, a step toward the new Veterans Memorial/Senior Center project; the second-lowest bidder's protest was denied.
November 2026 rent control and just cause eviction ballot measure
A voter initiative with 4,751 valid signatures would cap rent increases at 60% of CPI (max 5%) for pre-1995 units, require $12,000+ relocation payments, and add tenant protections citywide. The council must either adopt it or put it on the November ballot, and ordered a supplemental impact report first.
Flavored tobacco sales and tobacco retail permits
The council repealed the city's own tobacco retail permit and flavored tobacco rules and adopted San Mateo County's ordinance instead. Restaurant and shop owners warned of job losses and lost revenue; the measure passed 4-2 after midnight.
Data Center Energy Demand
Get ready, Redwood City! AI is driving a data center boom, and these places need a LOT of power. Experts are scrambling to figure out how to keep the lights on for them without overloading our grid or costing us a fortune.
State of the City address
Redwood City's mayor laid out the city's game plan, and it's all about tackling housing costs and improving how we get around. The goal is to make the city a better place for all residents.
Minimum Wage
Redwood City just became the first city in the US to have the highest minimum wage. This move is a big deal for both workers and businesses in the area.
Public Art Dispute
Redwood City painted over a Black Lives Matter mural, sparking a censorship debate. The city claims it doesn't allow political art, but residents are crying foul, especially after a request to add pro-Trump art was made.
Public Art Controversy
Redwood City painted over a Black Lives Matter mural after a resident asked to paint a 'MAGA' message over it. The city claims they want to stay neutral and avoid vandalism.
Towing Regulations
Redwood City is fighting a proposed ban on towing cars. They say towing is essential for managing parking and keeping things orderly, so they want to keep the option available.
County Charter Ballot Measures
San Mateo County voters are deciding on Measures AA and L, two ballot measures that tweak the preamble of the county charter. It’s mostly housekeeping, but it still shapes how county government frames its authority and purpose.