We, the undersigned, urge the San Bruno Community Foundation Board (SBCF) and San Bruno City Council to pause approval of the proposed $25 million fire station project and re-engage the community before making a major change to how the Foundation operates, including whether it should continue to exist. 

The Community Foundation identifies a new fire station as its second "legacy project”. The Board proposes to halt its existing programming, redirect its funds into this project and then proposes to dissolve itself. We contend that SBCF already has its legacy project - the Recreation and Aquatic Center - and its second legacy project is the existence of the Foundation itself. Over the past decade, the Foundation has supported the community through programs like its Crestmoor Scholarship Fund and Community Grants Program, which has helped dozens of kids afford college and provided over $1 million to local nonprofits that provide vital community services to vulnerable and underserved populations in San Bruno. Removing these programs at a time when federal funding and policies have caused instability would remove a lifeline that many are depending on. 

While we fully support our Fire Department, the voters already approved Measure Q, a general obligation bond in November 2024 which is expected to generate $100 million over the next 30 years and already provides funds for needed upgrades. There has been no clear public explanation for why an entirely new station is being proposed through the Community Foundation's finances, to the detriment of its existence. 

We also highlight the lack of meaningful community engagement around this decision. Prior surveys in 2015, 2020, 2021, and 2023 showed that building a new fire station was never identified as a top public priority. Direct aid to community members, investments in recreational facilities, and affordable education all ranked as top community priorities, and we believe SBCF has responded fairly well to these community priorities with its existing funding decisions. Recent Board discussions about spending the remaining funds have not included broad public input, in sharp contrast to past efforts.

Finally, we believe the Foundation should not be dissolved. The community has asked that it continue. We believe the Board could fundraise through local corporate donors and establish a membership or major donor program.

Join us in calling for transparency and public involvement in deciding the future of San Bruno's Community Foundation. Let's ensure that our community's voices are heard and respected in the allocation of public funds.

Please sign this petition to urge the San Bruno Community Foundation Board and City Council to reconsider and involve the community in this critical decision-making process.