It is with great excitement and hope that I present you with our first District 2 newsletter. As a longtime resident of San José and District 2, I am honored and humbled by the opportunity to serve as your Councilmember for the next four years. Making City Hall more accessible to the residents of our district is of prime importance to me and my team. I seek to demystify what goes on in the halls of government and truly open up our doors for all to experience.  

My term began quickly because our former Councilmember stepped into his role as Assemblymember for the 27th Assembly District in early December of last year. I chose to leave my employment with the county earlier than expected because it was important that our community have a representative during that time. 

Since joining City Council, we have hosted and attended great events across the city. Last month, I had the opportunity to give welcoming remarks on behalf of the city to newly naturalized citizens. I was also designated as the Responsible Landlord Engagement Initiative (RLEI) Champion, which allows me to help lead efforts addressing blight around our city and district. Whether it be assisting with neighborhood clean-ups or having District 2 residents present the invocation at council meetings, I have enjoyed collaborating with our community. 

There is much work ahead as we move to solve some our most pressing issues such as homelessness, affordable housing, road conditions and the preservation of our green space. Although I know it is impossible for all to agree on how to solve these and other pressing issues, I believe that through mutual respect and communication we can make strides in a forward direction. 

During my term I will seek community input on a host of issues. I hope that you will share your thoughts with me and encourage others to do the same. I do not have the answers to all our concerns, however, I do know that residents have views and ideas that can help move these matters ahead in a positive manner.

While taking in the magnificent view from the 18th floor of City Hall with the downtown lights shining bright, I remind myself that I am in this role to serve you, the resident. The work of the community begins and ends not on the 18th floor, but in the community where many of you strive to make San José a better place for present and future generations. 

My team and I promise to be an office that is accessible, present and responsive to all your needs. I look forward to partnering with you and seeing you in the community. 

Sincerely,

Sergio Jimenez