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From:Marty Estrada
To:Public Comments
Subject:EXTERNAL - Agenda 8.2 Two Draft Map – Maps D and F public comments
Date:Monday, May 19, 2025 4:41:20 PM
Hello City of Gilroy Council Meeting - I would like to address Final District Elections Map
from the Remaining Two Draft Map – Maps D and F on item 8.2. of the Agenda today
5/19/2025 under public comments. Below is my comment.
Public Commet from Marty Estrada
The City of Gilroy should be formally informed of the potential violation of state law
regarding Map F. East Side Gilroy is a vibrant, culturally rich community with deep roots in
the city’s agricultural heritage, predominantly consisting of blue-collar Chicano and
immigrant families. Map F threatens to break up this community of interest, which would
constitute a violation of the California Voting Rights Act (CVRA). Such a move contradicts
the fundamental reasons for implementing district voting in Gilroy, which was to ensure fair
and equitable representation for communities of interest.
Specifically, Map F appears to pack potential Latino voters into District 6 by adding Latino-
dense areas west of Monterey Highway, while simultaneously creating a southeastern District
4 with the highest Latino population percentage (74.4%) but a lower citizen voting age
population (58%). This configuration risks disenfranchising Latino residents and diluting their
voting power, undermining the core principles of the CVRA. In contrast, Map D would
maintain the integrity of our community of interest, preserving the cultural ties, family
values, and shared experiences that define East Gilroy—such as our houses of worship,
cultural festivals, and schools.
I strongly encourage the City of Gilroy to adopt Map D to prevent disenfranchising Latino and
Latina communities and to uphold the principles of fair representation. Furthermore, there are
concerns about statements made by Councilmember Bracco advocating for Map F, which
appear to be influenced by the geographic location of his residence. California law explicitly
prohibits drawing district lines that favor or discriminates against incumbents. Given these
issues, it is imperative that the City Council carefully consider the legal risks associated with
supporting Map F and prioritize adherence to state law and the protection of community
interests.
Thank you
Marty Estrada