Mayor Eddie's Newsletter - July 18, 2025
Published on July 18, 2025
Hello South City Community,
Summer is in full swing here in South San Francisco, and this weekend is the perfect time to enjoy the sunshine, connect with neighbors, and celebrate the spirit of our community. Join us tonight for the first Movie Night in the Park of the season at Orange Memorial Park, featuring Moana 2 on the big screen. Bring a blanket, pack a picnic, and enjoy an evening under the stars with your family and friends.
Then tomorrow, don’t miss Touch A Truck—a favorite for families and kids of all ages! From fire engines to construction vehicles, this hands-on event lets little ones get up close and personal with the big machines that help keep our city moving.
As your mayor, I’m especially proud that this year’s Touch A Truck also launches something meaningful: our citywide Diaper Drive to support families in need. When we say South City cares—we mean it. This initiative is about more than donations—it’s about dignity, solidarity, and lifting each other up in tangible ways.
I again want to highlight these amazing people who are spearheading this important initiative:
- Councilmember Mark Nagales (D-2), whose passion as a parent helped drive this idea forward from day one.
- The YMCA Community Resource Center, our city’s core service agency and a lifeline for so many.
- Our South San Francisco Firefighters (IAFF Local 1507), who do more than respond to emergencies—they strengthen lives. You are all amazing!
- And Genentech, a valued corporate partner that continues to invest in our community’s wellbeing for nearly 50 years now.
I’m filled with pride every time I see our residents, organizations, and businesses come together to make a difference. That’s the true power of community, and it's what makes South San Francisco such a special place to call home. Let’s make a difference for our South City families together!
Cultura Fest is Coming Up!
As your mayor—and South San Francisco’s first Salvadoran mayor—I’m proud to invite you to Cultura Fest 2025, a vibrant celebration of Latin American culture, creativity, and community. This year, we’re shining a special spotlight on Salvadoran traditions, flavors, and talent—but Cultura Fest is for everyone. However you define culture, you’re welcome here.
We’re also launching our first-ever Multicultural Parade to open the festivities, and we want you to be part of it! Whether you’re a school, community group, cultural organization, or small business, join us in bringing our shared heritage to life—through music, dress, banners, or simply walking together in unity.
This free, family-friendly event also supports local small businesses and nonprofits working in youth mental health, family services, and the arts. Thanks to generous sponsors and passionate community members, Cultura Fest reflects the very best of South City. So bring your loved ones, your culture, and your spirit—and let’s celebrate South San Francisco!
Learn More About Cultura Fest
Parade Interest Form
UPCOMING EVENTS
There’s so much to experience right here in South San Francisco—and this is just a glimpse! Come join me at upcoming events that bring our community to life. From cultural celebrations to neighborhood gatherings, there’s something for everyone.
Explore the full City Calendar at https://www.ssf.net/city-calendar and stay connected to all that’s happening!
Saturday, July 19, 10:30 a.m.: Grand Historic Walking Tour
The South San Francisco Public Library History Room will host a walk down Grand Avenue, sharing architectural details about historic buildings and stories about the people who built the city at the turn of the century. We will see the hotel that housed the earliest workers in the booming industrial town, the house that served as the City’s first hospital, and a dozen other historical sites. The tour begins with a video about the city’s history. Difficulty Level: Moderate. Most is on a slight incline; two blocks are steeper. RSVP Required via emailing History@ssf.net.
Learn More
Monday, July 21, 1:45 p.m.: Summer Learning Challenge Performer: Perry Yan's Magic Show
San Francisco Magician Perry Yan has performed at thousands of performances at schools, company events, kids' birthday parties and more. Perry's magic shows feature clean comedy and audience participation. Recommended for children and families.
Learn More
Saturday, July 26, 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.: Toy Drive: Benefit for UCSF Benioff Children's Hospital
In collaboration with UCSF and SSF Public Library, South San Francisco Brain Explorations has organized a charitable toy drive dedicated to supporting children affected by neurological conditions. The event will feature guest speakers from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. in the 2nd Floor Community Room. Toy Collection and other family-friendly activities will take place on the lawn in front of the Library | Parks and Recreation Center from 12:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Learn More
Tuesday, August 5: National Night Out
National Night Out is an annual series of community-building events that promotes public safety, community partnerships, and neighborhood camaraderie to make our neighborhoods safer, more caring places to live. Neighbors can engage in dialogue with staff from our Police, Fire, Public Works, Library, Parks & Recreation, City Manager’s Office, and more. We currently have 7 locations signed up, and if you are interested in learning more about National Night Out, please contact 650-877-8502 or cityinfo@ssf.net.
Let’s Talk About Childcare with San Mateo County Supervisors, Jackie Speier and Lisa Gauthier
We know that access to quality, affordable childcare is one of the biggest challenges facing families in South San Francisco and across San Mateo County. Many of you have shared your concerns—and we’re listening.
I invite you to join San Mateo County Supervisors Jackie Speier (District 1) and Lisa Gauthier (District 4) for an important townhall conversation about the state of childcare in our region. This is your opportunity to hear directly from local leaders, share your experiences, and help shape the path forward for working families in our community. This event will take place on August 14 from 6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. at our South San Francisco Library | Parks & Recreation Center with light dinner provided.
RSVP Here
Did You Know About the Mariposa Program?
San Mateo County offers a free annual park pass through the Mariposa Program—a great way for eligible families to explore and enjoy over 20 beautiful County Parks without worrying about entry fees!
If you’re a San Mateo County resident enrolled in Medi-Cal, CalFresh, CalWORKs, or ACE (Access and Care for Everyone), you can request a free 1-year pass that covers vehicle entry fees.
Approved by County Supervisors in 2022, the program is still underused in our part of the county. Let’s change that!
Spending time outdoors improves mental and physical well-being—so help us spread the word and take advantage of this wonderful benefit.
Learn More
COMMUNITY RESOURCES
Apply for the Community Advisory Council
Do you or someone you know care deeply about the future of the Bay Area? The Metropolitan Transportation Commission (MTC) and the Association of Bay Area Governments (ABAG) are now accepting applications for the Community Advisory Council — and they are looking for passionate community members like you to get involved!
Why Join?
- Influence Regional Decisions: Help shape policies on transportation, housing, and the environment.
- Amplify Community Voices: Ensure diverse perspectives are represented in regional planning.
- Collaborate with Leaders: Work alongside professionals and advocates committed to equity and sustainability.
Apply by August 3, 2025
Learn more about the Council here: https://mtc.one/council
Apply here: https://forms.office.com/r/HPwa0Lx1bP
Explore the ADU Resource Center
Are you interested in building an ADU and looking to take the next step? The ADU Resource Center of San Mateo County is offering free one-hour virtual feasibility consults to homeowners in most San Mateo County locations! Sign up to talk to an ADU expert about your goals and the viability of your potential ADU project. Our team will assess your property’s unique characteristics and provide tailored information on the steps you can take to bring your ADU vision to life. You’ll receive a follow up report with options for your property and next steps.
Learn if you’re eligible for a free consult and sign up by visiting https://smcadu.org/contact and reviewing the Feasibility Consult information.
Stay informed with other City communications! Sign up to receive newsletters from the Library, Parks & Recreation, or get notifications about the Shuttle, and Police bulletins by signing up on the City website.
Remember, you can read this entire newsletter fully in Spanish or Tagalog, or any other language via our website, by tap on the top right corner of the website (for most, the default language will appear as English (United States)). Choose your preferred language in the menu.
Please take care of yourself, and each other.
Mayor Eddie
City of South San Francisco