For Gilroy City Council: Danny Mitchell

Click HERE to read statements from all Gilroy City Council and mayoral candidates

By Danny Mitchell

Danny Mitchell

I am running for city council to ensure our city’s bright future! I have the experience needed to help restore our momentum improving the quality life for residents and businesses in Gilroy.  I am committed to our community and I can make tough decisions.

I grew a $3-million-company to a $30 million-company and all of the growing pains that go along with that growth. I developed and maintained annual budgets during this amazing growth run and managed the Finance and Accounting Departments as well as Administration and Human Resources.

I currently serve as Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Gilroy Elks Lodge — developing and implementing budget challenges for this nonprofit organization. I also serve as Vice Chair of Operations and Finance for the Gilroy Chamber of Commerce and I’m a four-year member of the Gilroy General Plan Advisory Committee for 2040.

Some of issues I see as significant for Gilroy are:

1. Focus on fiscal recovery. We are facing budgetary challenges with revenue shortfalls and general fund cutbacks.
2. We need to ensure public safety is properly funded to meet growing demands, sufficient staffing, equipment and facilities.
3. Gilroy is proud to boast of its parks and recreation programs. We must rebuild budget resources for a quality of life experience.

How would I address these issues?

1. With my financial background, I will confidently assess and work with all city resources and community leaders to overcome fiscal impact.
2. We must address staffing needs, upcoming retirements, disabilities and union contract reconsiderations.
3. I will champion to keep these areas from the cutting block as our families so enjoy the benefit of these community features of quality of life.

Being retired I have the time resource to dedicate to the city council.  Staying up on the issues and being prepared are key components. I have been a leader and manager for most of my career. I feel this is what the city needs now to help recover from this huge budget shortfall.