Guest column by Kelly Ramirez: Safeguarding Gilroy’s future: A citizen’s perspective on public safety

Public safety transcends the mere response to emergencies

By Kelly Ramirez

Kelly Ramirez

As a lifelong resident of Gilroy, my dedication to our community’s safety is deeply personal. With my husband serving in law enforcement for 40 years, I’ve gained a unique perspective on the challenges and necessities of maintaining public safety in a growing city.

My experiences, coupled with insights from ride-alongs with police and conversations with former police chiefs, have solidified my conviction that public safety is the foundation of a thriving community. Gilroy has experienced significant growth since 2008, with our population now exceeding 60,000.

Despite this increase, the number of sworn officers has decreased from 70 to 67. This discrepancy not only strains our ability to respond to emergencies but also limits proactive policing efforts, leading to increased response times and a reliance on online reporting for non-emergency crimes.

The fire department faces similar challenges, with aging infrastructure and a paramedic shortage that must be addressed.

The variability in response times across districts, as observed in January 2024, underscores the critical need for immediate action. We must prioritize hiring and retaining full-time, permanent staff, offering competitive salaries and benefits to attract and keep skilled personnel.

Investing in a fourth fire station and upgrading existing ones is not merely a matter of improving response times; it’s an investment in the safety and future of Gilroy. The Santa Clara LAFCO Countywide Fire Service Review highlights the urgency of addressing staffing, aging stations, and fleet issues to enhance public value and efficiency.

From my vantage point as a concerned citizen, bolstered by a family deeply embedded in public safety, I envision a comprehensive strategy for Gilroy.

This strategy includes increasing the number of sworn officers and firefighters to meet recommended standards and improving our emergency response infrastructure. It necessitates a concerted effort to reallocate resources, prioritize essential positions, and foster a culture of safety and preparedness across all aspects of city governance.

Public safety transcends the mere response to emergencies; it’s about creating an environment where residents can live, work, and play without fear. It involves supporting our public safety officers with the necessary staffing, training, and resources to perform their duties effectively and safely. It’s about crafting a Gilroy where public safety is integral to our community’s fabric, ensuring a bright and secure future for everyone.

Through my personal journey, from a resident and educator to a non-profit executive and planning commissioner, I’ve developed a deep understanding of what it takes to build consensus and drive effective policy.

My connection to public safety, through my family’s service, fuels my commitment to ensuring every Gilroyan’s safety.

Our community stands at a crossroads, facing the challenge of adapting our public safety infrastructure to meet the demands of a growing population. By drawing on the insights of those on the front lines and leveraging our collective expertise and dedication, we can build a safer, stronger Gilroy.

Together, let’s commit to a future where public safety remains a top priority, safeguarding our community for generations to come.

Kelly Ramirez is a long-time Gilroy resident and former educator.

Editor’s note: Ramirez has announced she is running for a seat on the Gilroy City Council.