A new bill aimed at closing a loophole in the Mello Roos Act is set to ensure that fully developed commercial properties in San Mateo County contribute fairly to local infrastructure funding. This legislation addresses a gap that previously allowed these properties, which have partial conservation easements, to opt out of their financial responsibilities.

The issue came to light following a 2019 court ruling that invalidated an illegally approved Community Facilities District (CFD) in South San Francisco, despite it having received a two-thirds majority vote. The bill is specifically designed to apply to properties within the regional shoreline of San Mateo County, where many are subject to Bay Conservation Development Commission easements.

Currently, some property owners benefit from essential local services such as roads, water, and sewers without contributing to their costs, shifting the financial burden onto other taxpayers. The proposed legislation aims to restore the original intent of the Mello Roos Act by ensuring that all properties benefiting from local infrastructure participate equitably in funding improvements. This move is expected to promote fairness and accountability in the funding of community resources.