June 2025

The e-Woodsider is a monthly, digital publication that includes current information and news, program and project updates, upcoming events, Council action recaps, and more!

To subscribe to receive this publication and other Town information directly to your inbox, visit https://www.woodsideca.gov/subscribe.

Photo of Woodside Town Manager Jason Ledbetter

Town Manager's Note

I joined the Town of Woodside on Thursday, May 15th, and it is an absolute privilege to contribute my first note as the Town Manager. In my first month with the Town, I have been focusing on setting up a seamless transition for operations, meeting members of the community and talking with each Town staff member to establish positive channels of communication and better understand their individual role and career aspirations.

I have also been meeting with key Town partners and local agency and organization representatives including the Fire District, CERT, the School Board & Staff, the Sheriff’s Office, the SMC Library Director, and our local elected offices. I am also attending volunteer Town meetings to meet Board, Committee and Commission members and gain a better understanding of their role with the Town.

I am enjoying my daily walk around our Town Center and our local businesses and community meeting spaces. As I observe the Town of Woodside, I see an active and supportive community that values its history and open and natural spaces. Woodside is a special Town where neighbors work together and value each other. I am immediately impressed with the engaged level of community volunteers who contribute their time to making Woodside special. I look forward to partnering with the community volunteers to explore solutions for safety and hazard mitigation. The Town of Woodside will be holding many planning workshops and events over the coming 6 months to hear from the community on topics concerning the Town Center.

I am excited to have the opportunity to contribute to the Town Center Area Plan that the Town has just initiated. We look forward to working with all community members to gain your feedback and opinion. I recommend viewing the June 10th meeting where we discussed this topic with the community and the Council. I also encourage you to visit the dedicated webpage where you can sign up to receive notification of important events and opportunities regarding the Town Center Area Plan.

I look forward to seeing you at a council meeting, a volunteer event or around the Town center. Please stop by Town Hall and say hello!

~ Jason Ledbetter, Town Manager

Town Council Meetings

Recent Town Council agendas and minutes are available at https://woodsideca.gov/agendacenter.

Recent Actions by the Town Council:

Received Overview of Town Center Area Plan (June 10)

On the Horizon:

Adoption of the Fiscal 2025-26 Budget (June 24)
Study Session on E-Bikes (tentatively scheduled for July 8)

Town Updates

Town Launches Update to Town Center Area Plan (TCAP)

The Town of Woodside is excited to launch an update to the Town Center Area Plan (TCAP). The current TCAP was last updated in 1988 and is contained within the Town’s General Plan. The updated TCAP will be a standalone document, containing policies, standards, and guidelines for land uses, future development, placemaking, circulation, parking, open space, utilities, and other key topics.

This planning effort builds on the Town Center’s historic roots and character while exploring ideas for new housing opportunities and walkable spaces, improved parking and circulation (for vehicles, pedestrians, equestrians, and bicycles), and enhanced urban design and public amenities. The update supports the implementation of Woodside’s Housing Element, which calls for updating the TCAP and determining whether areas within the Town Center could accommodate new housing. Additionally, the updated plan will identify desired and appropriate land uses and transportation facilities that best serve the Woodside community.

The project began in Spring 2025 and is anticipated to be completed by the end of 2026. There will be many opportunities for members of the public to be involved including public meetings, workshops, surveys, and pop-up events. Residents are encouraged to sign-up for TCAP email notifications by entering your name and email address on the project webpage at www.woodsideca.gov/TCAP.

If you have questions, please contact Planning Director Sage Schaan at 650-530-3432 or via email.

Town Seeks Volunteers for Town Center Area Plan (TCAP)
Citizen Advisory Committee

Application Deadline: Friday, June 27 at 5 pm

The Town of Woodside is updating its Town Center Area Plan (TCAP). A first step in the process includes the formation of a Community Advisory Committee (CAC) to ensure that the TCAP represents the viewpoints of the community. The CAC will provide input and guidance on key planning topics, including land use, circulation and parking, safe routes to school, economic development, design character, and community engagement strategies. The CAC will meet at least four times during the planning process to ensure that their insights and recommendations are represented.

The CAC will include representatives from several Town volunteer committees and property owners, as well as residents. The Town Council is soliciting applications from residents who are interested in serving on the CAC. If you are interested, please submit an application www.woodsideca.gov/TCAPapplication.

A Town Council subcommittee will select up to five applications to be considered by the Town Council for appointment at its regular meeting on July 8, 2025, at 7:00 pm, located at 2955 Woodside Road (Independence Hall).

Please submit applications via email, or drop off to Town Hall no later than 5:00 pm on Friday, June 27, 2025.

Flyer - Spirit of Woodside Photography Poster

Spirit of Woodside Youth Photography Contest

The Town, in conjunction with its Arts & Culture and Environment & Open Space Committees, is pleased to sponsor this first Spirit of Woodside Photography Contest.

Participants must currently live in Woodside and be younger than 19 years of age on May 27, 2025. Entry deadline is October 1, 2025.

Contest winners will be included in a special art exhibit and reception at the November First Friday event and will receive a certificate of recognition and be featured on the Woodside Town Website.

Visit the Town's website for more information including how to submit entries.

Town Hall Closed in Observance of Juneteenth

Although Juneteenth may be a new observance to some, it has a 159-year history among Black Texans and their family members who have migrated across the country. It commemorates June 19, 1865, the date when Major General Gordon Granger and his troops rode into Galveston, TX, with the news that the Civil War had ended and that all slaves were free - two and one-half years after the signing of the Emancipation Proclamation.

From Woodside Fire Protection District (WFPD)

Year-Round Hazard Abatement Program

Did you know some of the most destructive wildfire in California have occurred outside the traditional “fire season”? Recent fires like the Palisades Fire (Jan 2025) and Eaton Fire (Jan 2025) show that wildfire danger is now a year-round concern. At Woodside Fire Protection District, we are deeply committed to safeguarding our community and our firefighters by reducing wildfire risks through proactive prevention, education, and enforcement. As part of our ongoing efforts to create a more fire-resilient environment, we will be increasing our presence throughout the District to ensure properties comply with defensible space and vegetation management requirements. Initial notices will be left on properties where dry or dead vegetation has not been abated, providing residents with the opportunity to address hazards before formal enforcement actions are considered. Our goal is not punitive—our focus is on partnering with our community to promote safety and preparedness for everyone.

Click here to view the Fire District's June newsletter for more information on the Hazard Abatement Program including the home assessments designated inspection zones.

Important Chipper Program Reminder:

Don't Set Out Piles more than 7 Days in Advance of Pick-Up Date

WFPD is asking for residents to set piles out no more than 7 days prior to pick up date. Setting out chipping piles too early creates a significant fire hazard, as dry vegetation can easily ignite and spread flames rapidly. Additionally, these piles can obstruct evacuation routes, delaying emergency response and hindering residents from safely leaving during a wildfire.

WFPD will leave violation notices on properties for immediate removal if it is more than 7 days prior to pick up. WFPD takes the safety of the community seriously and hazardous vegetation endangers the health, safety and welfare of Fire District residents, and are dangerous to your property, your neighbors and your community. WFPD thanks you for helping them protect the Fire District.

New for 2025! Reserve Your Pickup in Advance

As an additional reminder, starting in 2025, you must MAKE A RESERVATION for the Chipping Program to schedule service. If you have questions about the Chipping Program or the process required to make a reservation, please contact the WFPD directly at 650-851-1594.

Red Cross Summer Safety Tips

Click here to view all of the Summer Safety Tips from the American Red Cross.

Regional News and Opportunities

Image of US with Different Languages in Type Across

County Elections Office Recruiting New Members to
Join its Language Accessibility Advisory Committee

San Mateo County Language Accessibility Advisory Committee (LAAC) advises and provides recommendations to the chief elections officer on ensuring equal access to voting process for all language communities.

It is recommended that members are fluent in Spanish, Chinese, Japanese, Tagalog, and/or Hindi, in addition to English.

Click here to find out more about the LAAC and how to apply.

From Our Agency Partners

Peninsula Clean Energy Launches 24/7 Emergency
Water Heater Replacement Service

An emergency replacement of a broken water heater can be super stressful. Peninsula Clean Energy (PCE) has a new service that aims to make it easier - and a lot cleaner.

PCE is now offering rapid service to install a new energy-efficient electric heat pump water heater as a replacement for a broken gas-powered one. And that replacement may result in zero cost to qualified residents.

Call PCE at 650-314-4796, their partner contractor is available 24/7 to confirm eligibility and to schedule an in-home assessment for the same or next day. So, who is eligible? Any active PCE residential customer who legally owns anything from a single-family home up to a fourplex with an existing gas water heater. Customers meeting income and other qualifications may be eligible for a no-cost installation.

Check out all the details on Peninsula Clean Energy’s website.

Image GreenWaste Recovery Inc 2024 Sustainability Report

GreenWaste Recovery Announces Release of 2024 Sustainability Report

GreenWaste Recovery, the Town's franchise hauler, has announced the publication of their GreenWaste® 2024 Sustainability Report.

This year’s report highlights significant Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) achievements, such as surpassing our 2030 Total Scope 1 and Scope 2 Emissions Reduction goal of 45%.

Key highlights from the 2024 Sustainability Report include:

GHG Emissions Decrease: With a 53.4% decrease in Total Scope 1 and 2 GHG emissions versus baseline, GreenWaste surpassed its 2030 emission reduction target of 45% total combined Scope 1 and Scope 2 market-based GHG emissions from its 2022 baseline. This remarkable achievement underscores the company’s commitment to renewable and zero emission energy sources.
Double Materiality Assessment: In alignment with leading reporting standards, GreenWaste engaged with stakeholders across its value chain, including municipalities, customers, trade associations, non-profits, and employees, to prioritize the most important potential impact and business activity sustainability topics.
Domestic Recycling: GreenWaste sent the majority of its top diverted materials by ton to 100% domestic end-market processing. In doing so, GreenWaste supports the local circular economy and can reduce GHG emissions associated with material transportation.
Continuous Innovation: GreenWaste continues to drive forward investments in emerging collection and material and resource recovery technology and pilot projects. In 2024, GreenWaste piloted North America’s first refuse hydrogen-powered fuel cell electric vehicle and added to its fleet of electric collections vehicles.
Employee Culture: GreenWaste prides itself on the commitment its employees share in servicing customers. The company maintains a robust average tenure across its workforce, speaking to GreenWaste’s cultivation of an environment where growth, development, and wellbeing are celebrated at every level. GreenWaste also continues to focus on its safety initiatives, resulting in its low TRIR of 2.07 and LTIR of 0.41.

Click here to view the full GreenWaste® 2024 Sustainability Report.

Special Events in June and July

Get Ready for the Next Town Clean Up Day!

Saturday, July 12 from 8 to 11 am

For more information, visit the Town Clean Up Days webpage.

San Mateo County Mosquito and Vector Control District Open House Flyer

SMC Mosquito and Vector Control Open House

Saturday, June 21 from Noon to 4 pm

San Mateo County Mosquito and Vector Control District (SMCMVCD) is hosting an Open House on Saturday, June 21, from Noon to 4 pm at 1351 Rollins Road in Burlingame. Stop by for kid-friendly activities, displays and information about insects and specialized equipment, and behind-the-scenes opportunities to see the mosquito colony and mosquitofish operations. For more information, visit SMCMVCD's website.

Woodside Library Events

Visit the Library's Calendar page for more information and to register for individual events.

Ready, Make, Explore!

Join San Mateo County Libraries for our Summer Adventure! Pick up an activity log from one of our libraries or print one out yourself. Complete challenges for a chance to win prizes!

Youth (0-18) can win a $1,000 scholarship or tickets to see the San Francisco Giants. Adults (19+) can win a County or State Parks Pass!

Summer Adventure runs from June 1 - August 31, and is open to all ages and abilities.

Other Exciting Programs at the Library!

Adults/55+:

Adaptive PE: Monday, June 23 from Noon to 2 pm. Flyer below. Registration Required!
Nature Journaling at Wunderlich Park: Friday, July 11 from 9:30 to 11:30 am. Space is limited! Save the date - Registration coming soon!
Nature Journaling at Huddart Park: Wednesday, July 30th from 9:30 to 11:30 am. Space is limited! Save the date - Registration coming soon!

Kids and Families:

Ensamble Folklorico Colibrí: Saturday, June 21 from 11:30 am to Noon
Super Silly Puppet Show: Tuesday, July 1 from 10:30 to 11:30 am

Library Flyer - Adaptive Physical Education

Library Flyer - Storytime with What If We Author

Community Recreation Opportunities

Woodside Co-Ed Adult Softball League

Teams are being formed now and registration is open!

Each team plays one game per week at McCovey Baseball Field at Woodside Elementary School, 6 pm, Monday through Friday, and some games on Sundays. The season starts the end of June and ends the beginning of September. Must be 30 and over for males (*exception: 21 years for males if parents on team and parents qualify), 25 and over for females (*exception: 18 and over for females if parents on team and parents qualify), and be a Woodside affiliate (live in Woodside, kids go to school at Woodside Elementary or preschool, work for the town, the schools or businesses in Woodside,). Email Melissa Cardinale with eligibility questions.

We encourage family members to apply together, as most teams have both husband and wife on the team. This is a fun league! Opening Day is Sunday, June 22, 2025.

For more information at to register, visit the Town's website.

Photo of Danny Goldberg with Gongs and Singing Bowls

Sound Immersion Experience
with Danny Goldberg

Sessions on Friday, June 20 and July 25
7 to 8 pm at Independence Hall

$45 per session, pre-registration

The Sound Immersion Experience with Gongs and Singing Bowls helps to balance and restore energy in your body. The healing vibrations pass through your body, opening blockages and allowing your mind to find peace within the sound. Through the vibrations of these instruments you can experience an inner calm and deep relaxation that enables you to journey within and center.

Join Danny Goldberg as he leads this experience. Danny shares the healing vibrations of the Gongs and Singing Bowls with a heightened sensitivity offering an extremely effective way to help relax, rejuvenate, and tune inward.

The Sound Immersion Experience with Danny Goldberg presents for Stanford University’s Health Improvement Program, Breathe Together Yoga in Los Gatos, Djerassi Resident Artists Program in Woodside, Peacebank Yoga in Redwood City and various other Bay Area locations. Danny shares the Sound Immersion with Google, LinkedIn, the 49er's, the Raiders, hospitals, recovery centers, veteran's centers and schools, as well as many festivals and conferences including Symbiosis, Beloved, Lightning in a Bottle, Lucidity, Days Between, Hog Farm Hideaway, Science & Non-duality Conference, New Living Expo, Wanderlust & many others.

Please register through ACTIVE.
For more details about Danny, visit Danny's website.

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For general questions or comments, please email townhall@woodsideca.gov.