Politics

GILROY—In a split vote Monday that rejected much public sentiment and planning commission advice, the Gilroy City Council embraced urban growth far beyond city limits while at the same time preserving a big swath of prime farmland.

What began as a way to draw attention to a flagging downtown district, a virtual group on social media has become a bit player in Gilroy’s local elections this year, securing a community award in the process.

Gilroy Councilman Peter Arellano has won the support of three Democratic state assemblymen in his campaign for Gilroy mayor. 

The Santa Clara County Clerk Recorder’s office continues to see a growing demand for marriage licenses following last month’s court rulings that upheld same-sex unions in California, as the office issued more licenses Friday than any other day in County history, according to County staff.

Mayor Don Gage's tough stance on fixing up downtown's unreinforced masonry buildings is paying off, according to City staff.

This November’s election will be hugely important for Gilroy and for the nation as a whole. Not only will it be a test of our presidential election system, but it will be an opportunity for Gilroy residents to vote for a mayor and three council members of their choice. Mayor Woodward, Cat Tucker, Teri Aulman and Daniel Harney all finish their terms at that time. This is an exciting moment in the history of our democracy. I hope that Gilroy residents will register to vote if they haven’t already, and that all registered voters express their wishes at the polls.

The race for one of the spots on the school board is so close,

Morgan Hill’s new mayor, Mark Turner, and District D Councilmember Marilyn Librers were sworn in and welcomed to the dais at the Dec. 14 meeting at City Hall meeting chambers.  Also sworn in was Morgan Hill District B Councilmember Yvonne Martinez Beltran, who was reelected...

Feeling like getting involved in your local government? The Santa Clara County Civil Grand Jury is taking applications from community members to help investigate and monitor public institutions.The Grand Jury examines all aspects of county and city government and can inspect all books, records and finances to make sure public funds are legally spent and properly accounted for. It monitors misconduct by public officials and employees and inspects the jails.It’s a great way to start getting involved and make sure Gilroy is heard from countywide.To apply and learn more, search scs court and grand jury.