For Gilroy City Council: Zachary Hilton

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By Zachary Hilton

Zachary Hilton

Hi folks! I have missed writing in this space and I look forward to continuing my column here after the election. I am Zach Hilton and I am running for Gilroy City Council. I am a 20-year firefighter/paramedic (IAFF Union Local 55) with the city of Oakland. During the past four years as Chair of the Gilroy Bicycle Pedestrian Commission, I’ve gained the governing experience and built the necessary coalitions within the community to have a seat on the Gilroy City Council. My daughter is a fourth grader in Gilroy public schools, and my wife is a para-educator for Gilroy Unified School District. I will advocate for the working family; I promise my office will always treat this council seat as an extension of your voice. As I’ve done in the past, I will continue to bring you the decisions and actions of city government through social media, coverage in local press, town halls, press releases, and email. My vision is for a Livable Gilroy For All. We can achieve that through safe communities, local economic development, affordable housing, and quality education.

We have had many accomplishments that directly benefit the community on the Gilroy Bicycle Pedestrian Commission. I have direct experience managing projects, policies, programs, and running meetings. I will continue to improve my training and education as a councilmember by attending conferences, webinars, and regional meetings. I will continue to meet as frequently as needed with all bargaining units in order to understand their concerns, as these are the workers that carry out our policies, programs, protect our community, and protect our infrastructure. Lastly, I will have an open mind.

The youth in the community have a seat at the table in my campaign. Once elected, I will establish an internship pro-gram for high school and college students. These experiences will include working with constituents, conducting com-munity outreach efforts, assisting community-based organizations, organizing civic events and projects, database development and upkeep, staffing the office, and other activities. Please get out and vote on the entire ballot this November. #HiltonForCouncil.