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From:Vanessa Ashford
To:Districting; Public Comments
Subject:EXTERNAL - Public Comment in support of district based elections for 5/7 meeting
Date:Monday, April 7, 2025 11:11:55 AM
Attachments:Outlook-asadtobp.png
April 7, 2025
To whom it may concern,
I am writing this letter in support of district based elections in the City of Gilroy. As a lifelong Gilroy resident (47
years) and an advocate who works directly with the community on a daily basis I have seen first hand the inequity
that is visible in our City currently. When looking at housing allocations and available spaces for affordable housing
the map looks very segregated. We have the opportunity and responsibility to take action to improve our City, our
services, and our communities by taking any action available to us.
District based elections are one of the proven ways that we can improve access and equity within our community.
The map I support is Map JH05 I support this map due to the fact that it balances the need for representation for
our largely hispanic population in equitable and balanced ways. Although Gilroy is a diverse town with a large
Hispancic population this is not reflected in the composition of our City Council. It is imperative to include people
who are most affected and impacted by policies in the decision making.
Thank you for your representation and attention to this matter,
Vanessa Ashford
Director of Community Initiatives and Peer Services
Carry the Vision
408.840.3305
7365 Monterey Street #203
Gilroy, CA 95020
www.carrythevision.org
vanessa@carrythevision.org