Gilroy City Council finalizes transition to district elections with map selection

The City of Gilroy held its sixth public hearing on May 19, 2025, to discuss the transition from an at-large to a district-based election system. The meeting focused on receiving a presentation from the demographer regarding the transition process and selecting a final district elections map from two remaining drafts, labeled Draft D and Draft F. The council also aimed to determine the order of elections for the districts, deciding which three would appear on the ballot in November 2026 and which three in 2028.

City staff provided a recap of the districting criteria used to draw the lines, emphasizing the importance of equal population distribution, contiguity, and maintaining communities of interest. The staff reported receiving 63 emails from community members, with 20 in support of Draft D and 44 in favor of Draft F. Draft D was noted for preserving East Side neighborhoods, while Draft F was recognized for its competitive districts.

During the public comment period, 14 speakers voiced their opinions, predominantly supporting Draft D. Many emphasized the need for equitable representation for historically marginalized communities, particularly on the East Side. Speakers argued that Draft D would better maintain community integrity and provide a voice for residents who have felt overlooked in past elections.

The council members engaged in discussions about the maps, with some expressing gratitude for the community's input and the hard work put into the process. The meeting concluded with plans to vote on the final map and sequencing of elections, with the council acknowledging the significance of their decision for the future representation of Gilroy's diverse population.

Overall, the meeting highlighted the community's desire for fair representation and the importance of selecting a district map that reflects the needs and interests of all residents. The council's next steps will involve finalizing the map and determining the election sequence, with a commitment to ensuring that all voices are heard in the new electoral system.