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🇺🇸 New Hiking Trail Coming Soon and World Cup Watch Parties

Discover outdoor music and wine tasting events this weeekend!

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Good morning neighbors!

Welcome to this week’s San Mateo Scoop! We’re exploring two newly proposed taxes, and a new hiking trail coming soon in San Mateo. Plus, we have World Cup watch parties, live music, and classic car shows!

Let’s get to it!

In this week’s edition:

  • City Updates: Sales tax proposal to balance the budget, new hiking trail coming soon, and a proposed hotel tax

  • Events: World Cup watch parties, live music, and class car shows

Hansø Pergolas: Outdoor Living Elevated to Architecture

Engineered to last 30 to 40+ years, backed by a 10-year warranty, and built to a standard that most homeowners simply don't expect at this price point. Precision manufacturing with 40+ years of expertise behind every louver and every detail. American craftsmanship. Clean modern lines. This is outdoor living elevated to architecture. Warehouse Sale on selected Hansø premium pergola kits is live now - a great opportunity to invest in an outdoor space built to last a lifetime.

The latest in San Mateo local news

ABAG Preparing to Increase Housing Targets Across the Bay Area
The Association of Bay Area Governments (ABAG) is beginning preparations for the next Regional Housing Needs Allocation (RHNA) cycle, a process that determines how many homes each city must plan for over the coming years. Early discussions suggest housing quotas could increase significantly as state leaders continue pushing cities to address California’s housing shortage. While exact numbers have not yet been assigned, local governments throughout the Bay Area are already watching the process closely because future targets could influence zoning decisions, development proposals and housing policies. Residents may see more conversations about higher-density housing and new residential projects as cities prepare for the next planning cycle. Read more here.

Belmont-Redwood Shores School District Names Interim Superintendent
The Belmont-Redwood Shores School District has selected an interim superintendent to lead the district while officials conduct a search for a permanent replacement. District leaders say the appointment is intended to provide continuity and stability for students, families and staff as planning begins for the upcoming school year. The interim superintendent will oversee district operations, educational programs and key initiatives during the transition period. For local families, the move ensures leadership remains in place while the board works through the longer-term hiring process. Read more here.

Burlingame Advances Potential Hotel Tax Measure for Voters
Burlingame officials are moving forward with a proposal that would increase the city’s hotel tax, with voters expected to have the final say if the measure is formally approved. City leaders say additional revenue could help support municipal services and infrastructure projects while drawing primarily from visitors rather than local residents. Supporters view the tax as a way to generate funds from the city’s strong hospitality sector, while opponents may raise concerns about impacts on hotel competitiveness. The proposal is still working through the approval process before it can appear on the ballot. Read more here.

New Southern Skyline Ridge Trail Dedication Expands Regional Recreation Access
The San Francisco Public Utilities Commission, with the Bay Area Ridge Trail Council, recently marked a milestone for the Southern Skyline Ridge Trail — a 5.4-mile addition to the Bay Area Ridge Trail network running parallel to Skyline Boulevard, just south of Highway 92. Built on protected Peninsula Watershed land in central San Mateo County, the trail will open one of the region's most scenic ridgelines to hikers, cyclists, and equestrians for the first time. The route is still under construction, with public access expected later in 2026. Unlike the Fifield-Cahill Ridge Trail to the north, the new segment will let visitors explore independently through an annual permit system. Read more here.

San Mateo Considering Sales Tax Increase Amid Budget Shortfall

Facing a projected budget deficit in the double digits, the City of San Mateo is evaluating a potential sales tax increase as one option for maintaining city services. Officials say rising costs and slowing revenue growth have created financial pressures that could affect public safety, infrastructure maintenance and other municipal programs if left unaddressed. Any tax proposal would likely require voter approval and could appear on a future ballot. Residents can expect additional public discussions in the coming months as city leaders weigh budget priorities and potential revenue solutions. Read more here.

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Vivace Ristorante in Belmont

1910 Ralston Ave, Belmont

Vivace Ristorante brings together Northern and Southern Italian influences in a contemporary setting in downtown Belmont. The menu features handmade pastas, fresh seafood, risotto, wood-fired pizzas and seasonal Italian specialties crafted with locally sourced ingredients when possible. Guests will also find an extensive wine list highlighting both Italian and California producers. Known for its elegant yet approachable atmosphere, Vivace focuses on classic Italian cooking with modern touches. The restaurant has become a well-established part of Belmont’s dining scene, serving both traditional favorites and seasonal creations.

Kodawari Japanese Cuisine in San Mateo

32 42nd Ave, San Mateo

Kodawari Japanese Cuisine focuses on traditional Japanese cooking with an emphasis on quality ingredients and careful preparation—the word "kodawari" itself refers to a dedication to craftsmanship and attention to detail. The menu includes sushi, sashimi, specialty rolls, donburi rice bowls and a variety of Japanese small plates. Fresh seafood plays a central role, alongside classic dishes that highlight seasonal ingredients and balanced flavors. The restaurant blends traditional Japanese techniques with a modern neighborhood dining experience. Its focus on freshness and presentation reflects the Japanese philosophy of taking pride in every aspect of a meal.

🎶 Central Park Music Series | San Mateo | Central Park | 6/25 | more
Enjoy an evening of live music, food vendors, family-friendly activities, and summer fun in the heart of Central Park.

Fan Zone Watch Party | San Mateo | Fitzgerald Field, Central Park | 6/25 | more
Cheer on the action for USA vs. Türkiye with fellow fans at this outdoor soccer watch party with a lively atmosphere.

🎵 Music in the Park | Burlingame | Washington Park | 6/26 | more
Bring a blanket or lawn chair and enjoy a free outdoor concert featuring live music, food, drinks, and a relaxed community atmosphere.

🚗 Car Night | Burlingame | Growing Ivy | 6/26 | more
Explore more than 100 unique vehicles while enjoying an evening of creativity, community, and automotive culture.

🐾 Bark n' Brewfest | Burlingame | West Washington Park | 6/27 | more
Sample beverages from local brewers, wineries, and other vendors while supporting shelter animals at this dog-friendly fundraiser benefiting Peninsula Humane Society's Hope Program.

🎭 Poetry Nap: The Nature of Love | Woodside | Filoli | 6/27 | more
Experience an immersive outdoor theater performance that blends poetry, storytelling, and nature in the beautiful surroundings of Filoli.

🎸 Rock the Dock | Redwood City | 459 Seaport Court | 6/27 | more
Catch live waterfront music from Daze on the Green and enjoy an afternoon of dancing, food, and scenic harbor views.

🎨 Paint for Paws: NorCal Sled Dog Rescue | San Carlos | Out of the Barrel Taproom | 6/27 | more
Create a custom painting of your pet while supporting rescue animals at this fun and creative fundraiser; RSVP by June 25.

🦜 Happy Birds | San Carlos | Hiller Aviation Museum | 6/27 | more
Watch talented parrots, macaws, and cockatoos perform tricks, songs, and entertaining antics in this family-friendly live show.

🎤 Live Music with Johnny J. Blair: Singer at Large | Burlingame | Town Square | 6/27 | more
Settle in for an evening of live music as singer-songwriter Johnny J. Blair brings his eclectic sound to Town Square.

🐶 Puppies and Piercings | Burlingame | Eleven & Luxe | 6/27 | more
Meet adorable puppies while shopping, socializing, and enjoying special piercing promotions at this unique community event.

🏴‍☠️ Captain Achoo's Big Pirate Adventure | Woodside | Filoli | 6/28 | more
Join Captain Achoo on a swashbuckling theatrical adventure filled with music, storytelling, and interactive fun for all ages.

🏆 Hillsborough Concours d'Elegance | Hillsborough | Crystal Springs Golf Course | 6/28 | more
Celebrate 70 years of automotive excellence at the world's longest continually running concours, featuring remarkable classic and collector vehicles.

🎶 Belmont Summer Concert Series: Dennis Johnson and the Revelators | Belmont | Twin Pines Park | 6/28 | more
Enjoy an evening of live music in Twin Pines Park as Dennis Johnson and the Revelators take the stage for Belmont's popular summer concert series.

🎵 Live Music with Rachael Vega | Burlingame | Town Square | 6/28 | more
Spend a summer afternoon enjoying live music from local performer Rachael Vega in the heart of downtown Burlingame.

☕ 🚗 Cars, Coffee, and Cowboys | San Mateo | Caffeinated Cowboy | 6/28 | more
Check out an impressive lineup of vehicles, grab a coffee, and connect with fellow car enthusiasts at this casual community gathering.

🦜 Happy Birds | San Carlos | Hiller Aviation Museum | 7/1 | more
See talented parrots and other feathered performers showcase impressive tricks and entertaining behaviors in a fun live show.

Soccer Watch Party | San Carlos | Wheeler Parking Plaza | 7/1 | more
Watch the match on the big screen alongside fellow fans while enjoying the energetic atmosphere of downtown San Carlos.

🎉 ⚽ Soccer Social Pop-up Event | San Mateo | B Street | 7/1 | more
Celebrate the excitement of the global game with community fun and opportunities to connect with fellow fans.

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