Q: Which accomplishments from your current term are you most proud of?
A: We secured $211M and $50M from outside sources during the pandemic, demonstrating fiscal strength and prudence on a meta level. We developed our first economic strategic plan and approved our housing element for 3,200+ units over the next 8 years. Notable progress includes the 1515 4th St. market rate project with inclusionary units and the Northgate EIR (environmental impact report) approval.
Q: What have you learned in your first term that's changed your approach to governance?
A: Being mayor is different from being on the council. The community wants city involvement in major issues. We're focusing on evolving systems like C-click fix, which receives 10 reports daily, and addressing public service employee hiring challenges by working closely with city managers.
Q: What's your vision for revitalizing downtown San Rafael?
A: The community needs to get more involved and support brick and mortar. We're promoting community involvement through events like Art Fridays and supporting the CA Art Districts designation, one of only a handful in California. We've implemented an empty storefront program featuring pop-up libraries and art installations. We're also converting business improvements to property improvements. Marin MOCA downtown, the new Amphora pottery studio, and the Paul Goldstone development project on 4th St. are successful examples of bringing the community together.
Q: How are you addressing crime and public safety?
A: We're focusing on data rather than NextDoor narratives. While property crime has increased since Covid, we've implemented license plate readers at key intersections and are facilitating neighborhood watch programs. We're also emphasizing bike registration and addressing density-related challenges.
Q: What's your approach to homelessness and climate issues?
A: We've enacted new ordinances addressing encampments, resolving 30% of cases while offering sanctioned alternatives and services. On climate, we've reduced greenhouse gas emissions by 12% and are actively working on sea level rise initiatives, securing $1M in grants for mitigation. We're the only jurisdiction in Marin County with a full-time sustainability staff member.
Mayor Kate Colin, who likes to be called “Mayor Kate”, is the first woman mayor of San Rafael and is running for her second term in November 2024. Her tenure has focused on balanced development, downtown revitalization, and systematic approaches to public safety and homelessness. The mayor's approach combines practical solutions with long-term strategic planning, particularly in areas of housing, climate change, and economic development.
Check out the new San Rafael Website: The City with a Mission
