Gilroy City Council considers Map D for fair representation of East Side community

Under the soft glow of city hall lights, the Gilroy City Council convened on May 19, 2025, to address pressing issues surrounding community representation and district mapping. The atmosphere was charged with anticipation as residents voiced their concerns about fair representation, particularly for marginalized communities.

Sally Armendariz, one of the evening's speakers, passionately reminded the council of the California Brodie Rights Act, which has been in place since 2001. She urged council members to ensure that all Gilroyans, especially those from large minority areas, receive equal representation. "Manipulating a map is not legal," she asserted, emphasizing the importance of honoring both the law and the community's needs. Her call to action was clear: support Map D, which she believes would provide fair representation for all.

Following her, Rebecca Armendariz echoed similar sentiments, highlighting the East Side of Gilroy as a historically marginalized community. She argued that selecting Map D would unite voices from this area, which has long been overlooked. "This is really an opportunity to get voice," she stated, warning that failing to choose Map D would send a problematic message to the community.

Aaron O'Brien joined the chorus, stressing the cultural richness of Eastside Gilroy and the importance of keeping the community intact. He pointed out that Map F would disrupt this unity, potentially disenfranchising Latino residents by dividing their voting power. "We share strong family values and cultural ties," he said, urging the council to consider the legal implications of their mapping choices.

The final speaker, Jorge Vargas, shared his preference for Draft B, which he argued would maintain neighborhood integrity and foster community pride. He emphasized the importance of keeping local parks and schools within the same district to strengthen community identity.

As the public hearing concluded, council members reflected on the extensive discussions that had taken place over the past months. Council member Klein acknowledged the robust dialogue and the effort put forth by both the public and the council. "We can walk away knowing that we did the best job we could together," he remarked, signaling a commitment to thoughtful decision-making.

The meeting underscored a pivotal moment for Gilroy, as residents and council members grappled with the complexities of representation and community identity. The decisions made in the coming weeks will not only shape the political landscape but also resonate deeply within the hearts of Gilroyans, reminding them of the power of their voices in shaping their community's future.