Over 5K San Mateo Co. Businesses Could Get Pandemic Relief Funds

SAN MATEO COUNTY, CA — The San Mateo County Board of Supervisors unanimously approved a $5.8 million relief program for businesses impacted by the pandemic on Tuesday.

Around 5,400 businesses across the county will receive funds through the Environmental Health Fee Relief Program. Businesses most impacted by COVID-19 restrictions will be prioritized, as well as small businesses.

Eighty percent of businesses that sell food will receive funding. The funds would apply to a one-time credit for the cost of annual permit fees.

The effort was sponsored by county Supervisors Dave Pine and Warren Slocum.

“Many local businesses are only now preparing for normal operation after 15 months of struggle,” Pine said in a news release. “Providing relief from permitting fees is a means to help local businesses get up and running as soon as possible.”

Other industries that are expected to receive funding include public pools and spas, body art and massage, hotels and commercial and industrial sectors.

Amy Buckmaster, President and CEO of Chamber San Mateo County, thanked the Board of Supervisors in a news release.

“It will take most small business owners years to fully recover from COVID’s economic impacts,” Buckmaster said. “While we all celebrate full tables at restaurants, shoppers in stores, and office workers coming back in the coming months — we don’t see the credit card bills, unpaid rent, cashed-in 401k accounts, or loans used to survive the past 15 months.”