Belmont · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Belmont public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Police Grant Awards
With the city dipping into reserves for the first time next year, the police department is chasing grants to soften the blow: $37,000 for traffic safety education, CHP cannabis tax funds for new equipment, and a hoped-for $1 million five-year grant funding part of a detective position.
ALPR Data Sharing — Grand Jury Response
ALPR cameras have helped in 60 cases, including a counterfeit currency ring busted with the Secret Service. The department says access requires an active case number, is audited, and data sharing is being narrowed to under 100 agencies within roughly 40 miles — with no federal sharing.
El Niño Winter Storm Preparedness
NOAA forecasts a greater than 90% chance of a very strong El Niño this winter, bringing flooding, landslide, and drainage risks. The council's emergency proclamation lets the city formalize heightened readiness, and residents can pitch in by adopting storm drains and grabbing sandbags.
Ralston Student Pedestrian Safety
A Carlmont High School senior led a 15-student bike ride and reported that Belmont's major arterials — Ralston, Alameda, Old County, El Camino — feel unsafe to bike, keeping students in cars and worsening school-zone congestion.