Redwood City – The County of San Mateo today released a report detailing the results of a monthslong process to learn about residents’ needs in four key areas.
The insight will inform a Board of Supervisors study session scheduled for 9 a.m. Tuesday, Oct. 3.
Over the past two months, the County has held a series of listening sessions and conducted surveys in communities from Daly City to East Palo Alto to learn about residents’ needs and concerns regarding Housing and Homelessness, Children and Families, Mental Health, and Emergency Preparedness.
Outreach materials, listening sessions and surveys were provided in multiple languages. Deliberate and targeted community outreach was also conducted to encourage participation from residents with a wide range of ages, incomes, races and ethnicities.
The information collected offers a unique snapshot into the needs and challenges identified by 2,661 residents who attended a listening session or responded to a survey available online or in print form.
Based on the results from listening sessions and surveys, the following major themes emerged:
- Increase the supply of housing that is affordable to a greater share of the community
- Support positive mental health by addressing the economic pressures on individuals, families and seniors
- Expand access to affordable and culturally sensitive child care and youth enrichment programs
- Provide clear communication and localized planning to help communities plan for emergencies
- Support the needs of seniors as unique from those of children and families
- Increase access to trade schools and varied career options after high school
The “Measure K Listening Sessions and Survey Summary Report” is available on the County website.
The report was prepared by an outreach consultant, InterEthnica.
Tuesday’s Board of Supervisors study session will include a presentation on the results, followed by a discussion on ways to address needs through funding from Measure K, the countywide, voter-approved half-cent sales tax that provides local funds for local needs.
The meeting is scheduled for 9 a.m. in the Board Chambers, 400 County Center, Redwood City.
In-person and remote participation are available. Live Spanish translation is available.
Find details on the agenda posted on the Board’s website.
Michelle Durand
Chief Communications Officer
mdurand@smcgov.org