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🪿 Goose Management, New Bites, and Building Developments

🪿 Goose Management, New Bites, and Building Developments

Plus Halloween events, upcoming shows, and news from around San Mateo

Greg Kemper
October 30, 2025

Good morning neighbors!

Welcome to this week’s San Mateo Scoop! We have exciting updates for you this weekend including a brand new tea shop, and fun events to attend for Halloween this weekend!

Let’s dive in!

In this week’s edition:

🚧 San Mateo City Building Updates: Burlingame City Hall, the Fish Market on S Norfolk Street, and Buildings near Caltrain Stations

🍽️ New Restaurants and Places to Grab a Bite: Lobster, Italian, ice cream, tea, and more

🎃 Weekend playbook: Halloween events and upcoming shows

🪿 Foster City Rolls Out Canada Goose Population Management Plan

Following approval of the non-lethal plan to remove Canadian geese from Foster City, the city has begun implementing this plan. The “Canada Goose Population Management Plan” that mixes non-lethal deterrents, habitat modification, and community awareness efforts aimed at reducing the geese number and improving water-quality outcomes. Residents are encouraged to avoid feeding the birds, remove trash and recycle diligently, and participate in park clean-up efforts. The initiative underscores the challenge of balancing urban recreation spaces with wildlife management in a densely developed bay-front city.

The Foster City Parks & Recreation Department reports that the resident population of Canada Goose on the city’s lagoon and park system has soared from about 181 birds in 2020 to over 390 in 2022, contributing to elevated E. coli levels in beaches and creating ongoing maintenance and health concerns. Read more here.

🏢 New State Law Will Allow 7-to-9-Story Buildings Near Caltrain Stations

A recently signed state law will allow significantly taller residential buildings near transit hubs in California, including up to seven stories within a quarter-mile of Caltrain stations, up to nine stories right adjacent to stations under specified conditions. The reform, aimed at accelerating housing density and transit-oriented development, overrides certain local zoning restrictions and may reshape planning approaches in cities across the Bay Area.

Local governments now face a dual challenge: welcoming increased housing capacity while addressing neighborhood character, transit capacity, and infrastructure impacts. The legislation could prove pivotal in the region’s efforts to tackle housing shortages and commuter-traffic pressures. Read more here.

🏛️ Burlingame City Hall Upgrades and Future Use Under Review

The Burlingame City Council is advancing discussions about the future of City Hall and adjacent civic spaces as the building nears the end of its service life and growing demands call for upgrades. The debate centers on whether to renovate, repurpose or relocate municipal functions to better meet modern standards of accessibility, sustainability and public service.

Community input is being sought, and planning staff are weighing options ranging from adaptive reuse to full rebuild. These decisions are poised to influence the city’s long-term downtown character, budget priorities and service delivery model. Read more here.

🐠 Slow Progress Spurs Resident Concerns Over Fish-Market Development

Plans for a major fish-market complex at S. Norfolk Street have stalled, raising concerns among local residents and stakeholders about delays, unclear timelines and impacts on traffic, noise and neighborhood quality. While the proposed development promises new waterfront amenities and economic activity, the pace of progress has triggered questions about community engagement and project oversight.

Residents and nearby business owners are calling for greater transparency around construction phases, environmental reviews and how the project will integrate into the existing urban fabric. The situation highlights how large-scale projects, even with strong promise, can encounter local friction and require sustained coordination to move forward smoothly. Read more here.

🧋 Molly Tea Opens October 31 in San Mateo

153 S B Street, San Mateo
Photo Credit: Molly Tea

San Mateo is getting a sweet new addition just in time for Halloween! Molly Tea, known for its stylish aesthetic and creative tea blends, is opening its doors on October 31. Visit during their first week and soft opening to get 12% off any in-store purchase!

Guests can look forward to handcrafted milk teas, refreshing fruit infusions, and picture-perfect desserts, all served in a chic, minimalist setting. Whether you’re after a mid-day pick-me-up or a cute weekend hangout, this spot is one to watch. The shop has become a hit in other cities for its unique seasonal drinks and whimsical presentation, and now Bay Area locals can finally join the fun. Expect a grand opening full of giveaways, special drinks, and plenty of Instagram-worthy moments. Learn more here.

🍦 Jolly’s Teas and Creams Opens in Belmont

1110 Old County Rd, Belmont

Jolly’s Teas and Creams is serving up happiness in a cup (and cone). This cheerful shop pairs creamy soft serve with refreshing tea drinks for the ultimate customizable treat. From classic milk teas to inventive seasonal flavors, Jolly makes it easy to mix, match, and indulge your sweet tooth. The bright, colorful space makes it a perfect stop for families, date nights, or an afternoon treat with friends. Signature offerings like their boba-topped sundaes and rotating limited-edition ice cream flavors keep things fun and fresh with every visit.

🌙 Half Moon Play Brings Indoors Adventures

50 Cabrillo Highway, Suite 4A, Half Moon Bay, CA 94019

At Half Moon Play, childhood is all about laughter, imagination, and discovery. This brand-new indoor play space offers kids a safe and exciting environment to climb, slide, explore, and create, while parents can relax knowing it’s clean, welcoming, and thoughtfully designed. From active play to magical make-believe, there’s something here for every child’s curiosity. Whether you’re dropping in for spontaneous fun or planning a birthday celebration, Half Moon Play is all about helping families connect and make joyful memories together. The space also hosts themed events and private party bookings, making it a perfect spot for everything from playdates to milestone moments. With bright, modern play zones and plenty of cozy seating for parents, it’s quickly becoming a go-to destination for families in Half Moon Bay.

Pausa in San Mateo

Photo: Pausa
223 E. 4th Ave., San Mateo

Pausa is recognized in the 2025 Michelin Guide as a Bib Gourmand destination—meaning it delivers high-quality food at good value. Chef-owner Andrea Giuliani draws from his native Veneto region to craft authentic Italian fare, including wood-oven pizzas, house-made pastas, and regional charcuterie. Located at 223 E. 4th Ave., the dining room is contemporary and comfortable, appealing to both couples and small groups looking for a well-crafted meal without overly formal trappings. With an Italian-wine–focused beverage program and approachable ambiance, Pausa is a go-to for those who appreciate authentic Italian cuisine in a relaxed setting.

New England Lobster Eatery in Burlingame

Photo Credit: New England Lobster
824 Cowan Rd, Burlingame, CA 94010

This East-coast-style seafood eatery brings Maine lobsters, lobster rolls, and other shell-seafood favorites to the Bay Area. Signature items include the dressed lobster roll, lobster corn chowder, and full 1 lb lobster plates served with house-made chips and slaw. The ambiance is casual and welcoming, featuring a market-plus-dining format with plenty of seating and an informal vibe. If you’re after a hearty seafood meal with flavor and comfort, no frills required, this place delivers. Read more here.