During the City Council Regular Meeting on September 2, 2025, residents of San Mateo's Eastside North Central area voiced their frustrations over recent parking changes that have significantly impacted their community. The meeting highlighted growing concerns about parking availability and safety, as multiple residents expressed their dissatisfaction with the removal of parking spaces, which they argue was done without adequate community input.

One resident, who identified as a longtime member of the community, passionately criticized the council for disregarding a petition signed by 80% of local residents opposing the parking removal. They described the current state of Humboldt Street as unappealing and likened the situation to a "ghetto," emphasizing the negative visual impact and the community's desire to restore parking access immediately. The resident characterized the council's actions as a "racist act," reflecting a deep sense of betrayal and frustration among community members.

Mary Willis, another resident, shared her personal struggles with parking, noting that she often has to park blocks away from her home, making it difficult to unload groceries and navigate her wheelchair due to a recent leg injury. She also raised concerns about traffic safety on Humboldt Street, calling for more stop signs to slow down speeding vehicles and prevent potential accidents, especially near a pedestrian crossing where a fatality had previously occurred.

Angela Rucker echoed these sentiments, describing the agony of being blocked in and the challenges of finding parking in her neighborhood. She urged the council to reconsider the parking policy, suggesting that those making decisions may not fully understand the difficulties faced by residents in North Central.

The meeting underscored a critical issue for the community, as residents called for immediate action to address their parking woes and improve safety measures. The council's response to these concerns will be pivotal in determining the future of parking in the Eastside North Central area, as residents seek to reclaim their neighborhood's accessibility and safety.