Topics will range from filing deadlines for nomination papers to
the type of workload
Gilroy – An informational session next week will give hopefuls for City Council a chance to learn more about the job before throwing their hat in the ring this fall.
On June 7, Mayor Al Pinheiro will join City Administrator Jay Baksa, City Attorney Linda Callon, and City Clerk Rhonda Pellin in a presentation on candidate requirements.
Topics will range from filing deadlines for nomination papers and financial disclosure forms to the type of workload a council member can expect.
The seven-member council, which includes the mayor as its head, governs the allocation of the city’s $150 million budget and the use of public land.
A common rite of passage for many members has been one or more terms on the Planning Commission, where they learn the nuances of land-use planning and zoning regulations.
Three council seats are up for election in November, including those of Councilmen Craig Gartman, Bob Dillon, and Charles Morales.
Gartman and Dillon have announced their intention to run again, as have former Councilman Peter Arellano and Planning Commission Chair Dion Bracco, who missed a seat in the last election by fewer than a 100 votes.
A decision by Morales to not seek a fourth term could open the door to a few less experienced candidates, such as Art Barron, organizer of the Eigleberry Neighborhood Association, and Bruce Morasca, a local arts advocate and grocery store worker. Both have said they will run if Morales bows out. Candidates have until mid-July to submit their nomination papers.
“I thought it was a great way to get people that might be thinking about running to understand what goes into the office in Gilroy,” said Mayor Al Pinheiro. “When I was running for mayor, that would have been nice to have. It’s taken a lot more time than some of us ever want to admit. It’s just to make sure everybody’s informed.”
The meeting takes place June 7 at 7pm in City Hall, 7351 Rosanna Street.
