Welcome!
My name is Mark Olbert, and I’m a member of the City Council in San Carlos, California. This is my site for staying in touch with my constituents.
Here you’ll find my blog, links to articles about municipal issues, and material that will help you understand my take on the Council’s work. All these can be accessed through the menu links at the top of every page.
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Enjoy! And if you have a moment, drop me a line to let me know what’s on your mind.
Who’s Doing Oversight Is Less Important Than How Oversight Is Done
At the June 10, 2013 Council meeting we’ll be discussing a proposal from a group of sister cities about revamping the board which oversees the South Bay Waste Management Authority (SBWMA). The Authority is a joint powers authority (JPA) which operates the Transfer Station located just north of San Carlos…
Keeping Faith
At its June 10, 2013 meeting the Council will take up a proposed 13% salary increase for our city manager, Jeff Maltbie. This stems from his recently-completed performance review, which involved an in-depth discussion between him and the Council (it took place in closed session because it’s a personnel matter).…
Behind the Scenes
At the last Council meeting I cited well-validated rumors Legacy Partners was vetting a new and different plan for the San Carlos Transit Village with some City Council and Planning Commission members. I brought this up out of concern that if the project was ultimately approved it could appear the outcome…
Opting for Silence
At our February 25th meeting one council member engaged in a very lengthy Q&A session with staff about a proposed ordinance banning the use by most merchants of single use plastic bags. This was followed by a somewhat less lengthy speech by the same council member re-iterating the positions made…
That Vision Thing
An important part of a city council’s responsibility is identifying, evaluating and pursuing (when appropriate) strategic goals for its community. In the past in San Carlos these have included things like revitalizing Laurel Street and building the library. These kinds of projects are big enough that they often get completed…
Arts and Culture Achievement Award Nominations
Know someone who’s made a positive contribution on San Carlos’ art & culture? Please consider nominating them for the 2013 Arts & Culture Achievement Award. Nominations are due by Friday, February 22nd. You can find more information here, and you can download a PDF submission form from here.