Candidate for
Council Member; City of San Mateo

Biography of Jan Epstein

Jan Epstein was born in Oakland, California, in 1940, raised in Soquel and graduated from San Francisco State University with honors and a B.S Degree in Nursing. She worked as a medical/surgical nurse and later as a Public Health Nurse in Redwood City and East Palo Alto. After a career as a full time mother and volunteer, Jan pursued her interest in early childhood education, returning to college to obtain her credentials in early childhood education and spent 10 years as a preschool teacher.

Jan's interest in government and the political process led to six years as Secretary of the San Mateo County Democratic Party, followed by six years as the Chair of the County Democratic Party. In 1997 she was elected to the San Mateo City Council and was first elected Mayor in December 1999 for a one year term. She currently serves as Mayor having been elected by the Council on December 6, 2004. Jan found her political experience valuable when serving as co-chair of the successful Yes on Measure C campaign, which passed bonds to finance much needed police and fire department building upgrades. Jan was also actively involved in the New Library bond campaign, which passed, by 72% of the vote. Jan serves as Chair of the Capital Campaign Leadership Council whose goal is to raise $10 million for the New Main Library.

Jan believes government should have an active role in improving all of our lives. She has consistently supported programs which help children, families and seniors, the poor, working poor, and the disabled. She has worked for more affordable housing. Jan realizes that a healthy city requires a thriving downtown with active and successful businesses. Jan believes her role as a council member is to serve as an intermediary and facilitator for individuals who need to do business with our city departments and organizations.

Jan and her husband, Ernst Epstein, M.D., were married in 1963 and have resided since then in San Mateo. They have one son, Steve, who is a partner of a hedge fund in Philadelphia. Jan is an avid gardener and as an enthusiastic hiker, cherishes our open spaces and parks.