The Assembly Local Government Committee convened on June 18, 2025, to discuss key legislative measures impacting local infrastructure and development, with a significant focus on Senate Bill 390. Councilmember James Coleman of South San Francisco presented strong support for the bill, emphasizing its importance for the city’s burgeoning biotechnology sector.

Coleman highlighted that South San Francisco is home to the largest and fastest-growing biotechnology cluster globally, with over 250 biotech firms and substantial development underway. He projected that the workforce in this area could triple to 100,000 employees by 2040, necessitating modernization of public infrastructure to support this growth.

Senate Bill 390 aims to enhance critical public infrastructure, including multimodal transportation improvements such as transit upgrades, bike lanes, and pedestrian access. These enhancements are designed to align with the city’s climate goals by promoting non-motorized transportation options, thereby reducing traffic congestion.

The bill also seeks to close a loophole in the Belarus Act, ensuring that all property owners benefiting from public improvements contribute fairly to their costs. This measure is crucial for maintaining the integrity of the Community Facilities District (CFD) and ensuring equitable funding for infrastructure projects.

The committee members expressed their support for the bill, recognizing its potential to facilitate economic growth and improve public access in South San Francisco. The discussion concluded with a call for a vote once a quorum was established, underscoring the urgency and importance of the proposed legislation for the city’s future development.