City Manager’s Update
Daniel Barros, City Manager
I hope everyone has been enjoying the sunshine that spoiled us throughout January. The lack of rain so far in 2025 has served as a forewarning to what is expected to be a wet February ahead. Though we have not seen severe storms since before the holidays, we must not forget that we are still in the middle of the wet weather season. Once again, it is critically important to be prepared during an emergency or major storm event. It may be a good time to check your emergency kits, go-bags, and back up food and water supply. Don’t forget back up batteries too for lanterns and flashlights. Finally, if you haven’t already done so, please sign up and register for SMC Alerts at https://www.smcgov.org/ceo/smc-alert. SMC alerts provide San Mateo County residents with real time information during an emergency.
In 2023 the City Council adopted the 2023-2025 Strategic Plan and each year the City Council reviews the Plan with staff ensuring goals and priority programs are met. Areas of study and review include: Resiliency, Operations, Economic Development, Community and Capital Programs. In 2024 staff was very successful in forwarding the programs and activities that were outlined in the Strategic Plan. For example, staff successfully held multiple special events throughout 2024 in celebration of our 100th anniversary, the Town unveiled a Centennial Mural along F Street, established a standing economic Development Subcommittee, the adoption of the Town’s Housing Element Update, and the completion of the Zoning Code Update.
On March 5, the City Council and staff will host a Strategic Plan workshop developing the Town’s 2025 – 2027 Strategic Plan. Staff will continue to focus on goals surrounding Resiliency, Operations, Economic Development, Community, Capital Programs and Economic Development. We hope you can join us at the Strategic Plan workshop to hear your ideas for the future of Colma.
Administrative Services Department Update
Renee Eshun, Administrative Services Director
Finance Department: Our Heart is in Serving the Town of Colma
As we step into 2025, with the season changes bringing in both a new year and a new chapter for the Town of Colma’s Finance Department, I’m excited to introduce myself as the new Administrative Services Director. I officially began my role in July 2024, and with me comes a refreshed team ready to continue our work with passion and dedication.
We’re thrilled to welcome two new faces to our accounting team: Sabrina Lee, our new Accounting Manager, and Lidia Munoz, our new Accounting Technician. At the same time, we’re grateful to have the continued support of Maria Martinez, our seasoned Accounting Technician, whose experience has been invaluable. Together, our team brings a wealth of knowledge from both government and accounting sectors, and we’re eager to put that expertise to work to help the Town of Colma continue to grow and thrive.
In the spirit of Valentine’s Day, we’re taking a moment to share just how much we care about the work we do. Our department is committed to ensuring the financial health of our Town, and we dedicate our hearts to doing so with excellence. Please, be our Valentine this year as we work together to build a strong future for Colma!
The Economic Impact of Valentine’s Day
Did you know that the National Retail Federation estimates that Americans will spend about $14.2 billion this year on Valentine’s Day gifts and celebrations? That’s an average of $180 per household! This holiday brings a significant boost to local businesses, from florists and chocolatiers to jewelers, restaurants, and card manufacturers.
Here in Colma, this spending directly impacts our budget, as sales tax is our largest revenue source. The increase in local commerce from Valentine’s Day helps drive growth and funding for our services, making a tangible difference in the community.
Measure AA: A New Revenue Stream
In November 2024, voters approved Measure AA, a ballot measure that increases the local Transaction and Use Tax by one-half cent (1/2). This measure, which will take effect on April 1, 2025, is expected to generate approximately $2.3 million in additional revenue. These funds will be critical in supporting the Town’s General Fund and ensuring the continued provision of essential services and programs.
Measure AA will contribute to everything from crime prevention and public safety to street repairs, park maintenance, and youth, family, and senior services. We’re excited about the positive impact this increase will have on Colma’s infrastructure and community programs.
The Budget Process: Looking Ahead
As we move into the new fiscal year, the Finance Department is
beginning the budget planning process. This is a collaborative effort where we’ll meet with all Town departments to forecast revenues and expenditures for the 2025-2026 fiscal year. The additional
revenue from Measure AA will certainly play a key role in shaping our budget and ensuring we can continue to provide high-quality services to the residents and businesses of Colma.
We’re looking forward to working closely with our colleagues across
departments to make sure the Town’s financial resources are
allocated efficiently and responsibly to support Colma’s growth.
Trivia Time!
In the spirit of love and romance, let’s wrap up with a little fun! Can you guess the answers to these movie trivia questions?
- In which romantic movie does Whoopi Goldberg play a psychic?
- In what movie did Diana Ross tell Billy Dee Williams, “I want my old man back”?
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