City Council Update - The Year So Far - September, 2025

I was sworn in last December and I wanted to share an update on what we've accomplished - especially for those who don't follow local government closely. The East Palo Alto City Council has five members: Ruben Abrica, Martha Barragan, Mark Dinan, Webster Lincoln, and Carlos
- 4 min read

Building Our Way Out of a Deficit in East Palo Alto

East Palo Alto’s empty lots could solve its structural deficit — if we start building now. If we don’t encourage development today, we’ll pay for it down the road. East Palo Alto faces a $2 million structural deficit, and it’s projected to worsen. Simply put, the revenues
- 4 min read

Why is Affordable Housing So Damned Expensive to Build?

The new Colibri Commons housing project in East Palo Alto is opening soon, and it's a reason to celebrate. 136 units will be providing housing for hundreds of people and this is a really big achievement. However, I have concerns about this project. City of East Palo Alto
- 4 min read

Big Wins for East Palo Alto: $25M in New Transit Investments

The San Mateo County Transportation Authority just funded $25M in projects that boost mobility for East Palo Alto—Dumbarton West Connector design, EPX service expansion, and Ride Plus to Palo Alto Transit Center. Here’s why this matters.
- 4 min read

Closing the Gaps to the University Avenue Overcrossing

The new University Ave Bicycle & Pedestrian Overcrossing has unlocked safer travel across Hwy 101, but nearby streets remain dangerous. Urgent fixes to University, Donohoe, and Woodland Ave are needed to prevent more collisions.
- 7 min read