An Open Letter Supporting Measure T from Jerry Hill
Former CA State Senator and San Mateo Mayor
My political journey began in 1991, motivated by how San Mateo should grow. My
neighbors and I organized to establish reasonable height and density limits for our city.
After serving as Council Member, Mayor, County Supervisor and State Senator, I am
back where it began, only to see that the policy I helped craft hasn’t changed in 33
years, even as our city has.
Until now, I’ve refrained from speaking openly, as San Mateo’s General Plan 2040 was
progressing. Over six years, the city engaged 1,000+ residents/businesses to develop a
consensus on how San Mateo should evolve. Measure T is part of that consensus.
Measure T establishes clear development limits, maintains a strong commitment
to affordable housing, protects San Mateo from unregulated growth and
maintains single-family neighborhoods. Rejecting Measure T puts the city’s Housing
Element certification at risk — along with double digit millions of dollars in state funding
— and severely compromises our ability to retain local housing policy control. Just
Google “Builders Remedy Menlo Park” to see how.
While I respect the opinions of Measure T opponents, a great city listens to all voices,
finds compromises and charts a path that benefits the entire community.
Thirty-three years ago, I advocated for the best solution for San Mateo then. Today, I am
a strong advocate for Measure T. It reflects the values and consensus of our community
and positions San Mateo for a bright future.
Yes on T by Nov. 5.
Jerry Hill
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