The San Mateo Times today states that there is no timeline for construction of the $56 million City Hall and Community Center as proposed in the Facilities Master Plan dated October 2004, but "a new City Hall is needed – eventually" according to the mayor. The Times also reported that the fees to the independent firm who created this report were $175,000.

Option A – 10,000 sq.ft. two story wing on the current site – $7.3 million
Option B – Three story city hall and 50,000 sq.ft. community center – $56 million

Whichever way – "the council will weigh the options, take the issues to the community and get feedback". It would then be put to the voters to come up with the money.

Discussion issues for Saturday's study session from 9:00 am in the Lane Room will also include the Easton Drive trees, view protections and budget priorities.

– Written by Fiona

Please read the Daily Journal if you, like me, are interested in the bullying going on in Burlingame. Many of us are concerned that the businesses in the Pez/Anugrah buildings are being legislated out of businesses with the help of the comrades in arms.

The GOOD news is that there are more enlightened councilmembers who are trying to improve our town and not destroy it. Councilwoman Baylock suggested that this part of Burlingame should be rezoned as non-auto row so that small businesses can be part of the Burlingame Avenue business district.

The BAD are the following:

(1) The news article says Mr. Galligan said if there are plans to expand the car man's auto dealership and displace seven businesses in the process "he would like direction from the council before it heads to the Planning Department"

(2) Mr. Nantell emailed me that "I believe that conditional use Permits for Sub Area D will be called before the Council after review by the planning commission's decision not instead of"

(3) Most of us heard in Tuesday's Council meeting that conditional permits must go to council before the planning commission reviews them.

(4) I had emailed Mr. Nantell and Mrs. Monroe to clarify this change of procedure and if this new procedure applies to any other parts of Burlingame.

(5) For Galligan to say he does not know of Harvey's plans is specious. Everyone around town knows his plans (see below) and it was in the local newspaper that he had put in a low bid on the Anugrah building and was outbid by a buyer who is now getting cold feet. Wonder why?!

(6) Galligan is quoted as saying "the city is not against small businesses since there are many small businesses on Broadway". How ridiculous is that? There should be room for small businesses in the Burlingame Avenue district. Why not for Gods sake?

(7) O'Mahony does not know if Harvey's plans "are a sure thing. I heard him say it, but I've heard him say alot of things in the past". Obviously she knows about his plans but Galligan doesn't? Yeaaah right!

(8) "Harvey is keeping specifics close to the vest" And his attorney's!

You choose what the UGLY is in this picture!

– Written by Fiona

If you have not strolled down the 1300 block of Broadway, there is a new store next to the Diamond Center. Jay's Smoke Shop has opened the doors. Unfortunately the name is deceptive. It isn't of the same quality as the Smoke Shop on Burlingame Avenue.

You will not find newspapers from throughout the US, nor will you find a plethora of magazines. What you will find is

An adult porn shop in the back of the store with anything and everything you do not want in your neighborhood. Was this issue addressed in the permitting process, if so who voted to approve the store? And if not, what is the city going to do?

– Written by rich grogan

The agenda is now out for the City Council Budget Policy and Goal Setting Study Session to be held this Saturday, January 29 in the Lane room at 9:00 am.

There will be time for public comments and community group funding will be discussed – always interesting to many of us who volunteer for Burlingame non-profits. The Council will discuss Goals for FY 2005-2006, share community input, give us their ideas and seek consensus on priorities. It should be an illuminating morning!

– Written by Fiona

The San Mateo County Board of Supervisors were asked on Tuesday to "do the right thing" regarding the SamTrans board appointments. They didn't. Read the SMC Times editorial from Tuesday and stay tuned for articles to come.

– Written by politicalblunder

A copy of the Facilities Master Plan is NOW being made available in the library after enquiries had been made at City Hall for copies.

It will NOT be included in the upcoming budget due to lack of available funds.

Like duh!

– Written by Fiona

Checked the mayor's message to see what he says about the new City Hall/Community Center plans included in his 2005 goals and there does not seem to be any mention of this expensive jewel being added to the Burlingame crown. Perhaps it is lumped into "improving the health and welfare of our citizens by renewing our very old infrastructure" ie a sewer and water line replacement program.

Another item in the message: "And there is the Plaza that has yet to awaken to its full potential it has a tool at the ready now, if the SAP for North Burlingame will give full-play to Smart Growth in this Smart Growth Zone"

He also "cherishes our 96 years of history" and points to the "escalating costs of fund mandated retirement plans". The last point is draining every city of mega-funds including Burlingame. There are plenty of complaints from city government and beyond but no one seems to want to touch it with a barge pole.

– Written by Fiona