The City of San Carlos held its Reorganization Ceremony on December 9 during a regular meeting at City Hall. The event attracted a packed room of supporters for outgoing and newly elected council members. This year’s local election saw a remarkable voter turnout of 18,031 residents, representing 85.4% of registered voters.
New City Council Members
John Dugan was re-elected to the City Council with 10,191 votes, while Neil Layton, a County Prosecutor and tenured San Carlos School Board Trustee, was elected with 9,004 votes. Layton expressed gratitude for the opportunity and pledged to build on the city’s progress, stepping into the council seat previously held by Ron Collins. For City Treasurer, Inge Tiegel Doherty was re-elected with 11,521 votes, which accounted for 100% of the ballots cast for this position.
Measure L
Measure L also featured prominently in the election, receiving 11,206 “yes” votes, solidifying its passage. This measure transitions the city’s treasurer position from an elected role to an appointed one, ensuring a more professional and efficient management of city finances. Supporters of the measure believe it will allow the city to select treasurers based on expertise and qualifications rather than the outcome of an election.
Retirement of Ron Collins
The ceremony highlight was the retirement of Council Member Ron Collins, who served San Carlos with distinction for 13 years. Collins’ tenure was marked by significant contributions to the city, such as advancements in affordable housing. He was instrumental in adding 63 affordable housing units, with 184 more expected in the coming years. Collins championed public health measures, such as banning smoking in multifamily housing and regulating the sale of firearms and tobacco products. His leadership helped dissolve partnerships with the Belmont Fire Department and local police department, transitioning responsibilities to more effective collaborations. As mayor during the first COVID-19 pandemic years, Ron Collins also led the City of San Carlos during the most challenging and unprecedented times, navigating public health crises, economic uncertainties, and community resilience efforts.
Dubbed “Mr. All-American” and “Mr. San Carlos,” by various speakers during the event, Collins received a Congressional Record from Congressman Kevin Mullin, Recognition Certificate from Assemblymember Diane Papan and Senator Josh Becker, and the first official San Carlos flag as a token of appreciation for his integrity and dedicated service. His wife, Gail Collins, was also lauded for her support during her husband’s 13-year term.
The New Mayor and Vice Mayor
In the same ceremony, the City Council appointed Sarah McDowell as Mayor and Pranita Venkatesh as Vice Mayor, marking only the second time in San Carlos history that two women have held these positions simultaneously. McDowell brings years of civic involvement and a strong commitment to community development, while Venkatesh is recognized for her leadership in sustainable initiatives. Together, they aim to drive the city forward with a vision for progress and unity. Neil Layton, stepping into Collins’ former seat, acknowledged the legacy of his predecessor, noting that he has “very large shoes to fill” as he embarks on his journey of public service.
The Reorganization Ceremony was a heartfelt event, celebrating the achievements of outgoing leaders and the promise of new beginnings. Cheers to the new city council, and we’ll see you next year.
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Mark Martinho and Vivienne Kelvin are the hosts of San Carlos Life and have been residents of San Carlos for years. While running San Carlos Life together with an awesome team, Mark and Viv are also in the business of real estate. They are co-owners of Vabrato Real Estate, a luxury real estate brokerage serving the City of Good Living, and the whole of San Mateo and Santa Clara counties.
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