YOUR GUIDE TO CITY-RELATED NEWS AND EVENTS | | |
June 15, 2026, City Council Meeting Recap:
- The City Council held a study session to discuss proposed performance metrics for the City Administrator.
- Caltrain provided a presentation to the Council, which included the results of the latest ridership survey.
- Council approved reduced speed limits on designated school-zone streets to 15 and 20 miles per hour. New speed limits will go into effect in preparation for the upcoming school year.
- The Council appointed new members to open seats on the Youth Commission.
- Staff provided a presentation regarding options for amending the Architectural and Site Review Permit Process. After the presentation and discussion, the Council directed staff to come back with a plan to enhance public outreach and require Planning Commission review and approval for the projects that require an Environmental Impact Report (EIR) and would result in one or more significant and unavoidable impacts under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). This item is expected to return to Council in August.
-
The Council considered awarding an agreement to develop a comprehensive roadway safety action plan, but the item did not garner the required votes for approval.
- The Council awarded a contract to construct six pickleball courts at Las Animas Park.
- After holding a public hearing, the Council adopted the 2025 Urban Water Management Plan and Water Shortage Contingency Plan pursuant to California Water Code Section 10642.
- Council introduced an ordinance to amend City Code Chapter 5D pertaining to vacant commercial space in the Downtown Historic and Downtown Expansion Districts. These changes are intended to improve visual appearance, foster economic activity, and enhance the sense of safety in downtown areas.
- The Council renewed the Gilroy Tourism Business Improvement District (GTBID). The GTBID is a benefit assessment district that provides a dedicated revenue source to help fund destination sales and marketing efforts for Gilroy lodging businesses, with residual benefits to the City's broader tourism industry.
- The results of the Las Animas Elementary School All-Way Stop Control Analysis and Study were presented by the independent consultant who conducted the study. Staff will now finalize the design of the proposed improvements and issue a bid advertisement to complete the work. The City will also work with Las Animas Elementary School and GUSD to encourage and facilitate their implementation of near-term operational improvements to pick-up and drop-off circulation.
- Staff presented the Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 Third Quarter Budget and General Fund Forecast Update. Council received the report and approved an updated position control list, which includes the addition of a management analyst and two public works maintenance workers. These positions will be funded through South Valley Recology implementation fees.
- Council introduced an urgency ordinance to amend the City Code, Chapter 8B, regarding voluntary campaign expenditure limits. The ordinance establishes a voluntary expenditure limit of $25,000 for candidates seeking election to a district City Council seat, retains the existing citywide $1-per-resident voluntary expenditure limit for mayoral candidates, and provides for biennial Consumer Price Index adjustments to the district expenditure limits.
| | Council Meeting Highlight: June 15, 2026 | |
|
Consideration of Options for Amending the Architectural and
Site Review Permit Process (FAIR Memo – Marques and
Ramirez)
| | |
Earlier this year, the Gilroy City Council asked staff to review the City’s Architectural and Site Review Permit process following community feedback, particularly regarding the Gilroy Data Center project. Because the site was already zoned for general industrial use and met all zoning requirements, the project required only an Architectural and Site Review Permit. Under current rules, this type of permit is an administrative decision and does not require public hearings or notifications if a proposal complies with zoning standards.
In an effort to ensure that residents have meaningful opportunities to participate in future development reviews, the City Council asked staff to propose options to increase transparency and public engagement. Staff evaluated the existing process, which is designed to promote high-quality development and ensure new construction fits appropriately within surrounding neighborhoods. The City processes about 30 of these permits each year, and most are currently reviewed and approved administratively by the Community Development Director.
At Monday's meeting, after the presentation and discussion, Council directed staff to prepare updates requiring certain large or environmentally significant projects to go before the Planning Commission rather than be approved solely at the staff level. Under this approach, if a project requires an Environmental Impact Report (EIR) and would result in one or more significant and unavoidable environmental impacts under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), it would be subject to a public hearing and Planning Commission approval. All other projects would continue through the existing administrative review process, which is faster and less costly.
With this direction, staff will prepare updates to the Zoning Code, bring the changes to the Planning Commission for review, and then return to the City Council for final adoption. Staff also plans to enhance public outreach by expanding how project information is shared online. This item is expected to return to the City Council in August for additional review and direction.
| | | | Celebrate the 4th of July at Gilroy's Annual Fireworks Show | | |
Join us for Gilroy’s professional fireworks display, one of the safest and most amazing ways to celebrate with family and friends.
Date: Saturday, July 4, 2026
Time: Fireworks begin at approximately 9:30 PM (dusk)
Location: Launched from Gilroy High School (750 W. 10th Street)
You can watch the fireworks from nearby neighborhoods or from Christmas Hill Park.
We encourage residents to avoid the traffic by walking or biking to see the show.
Thank you, and have a safe and fun 4th of July!
For more information, please visit www.cityofgilroy.org/fireworks
| | |
Share Your Input on Gilroy’s Proposed Affordable Housing Project
8th and Forest/Alexander Housing Development
| | |
The City of Gilroy, in partnership with the County of Santa Clara and the Santa Clara Housing Authority, invites the community to learn about the proposed 8th and Forest/Alexander Affordable Housing Development. This project primarily focuses on housing for agricultural workers and their families, providing equal housing opportunities for all.
Visit our informational booth to explore the project, ask questions, and share your thoughts on how you believe the development can best fit into the neighborhood and support future residents.
Stop by on Saturday, June 27, 2026 from 10:30 AM to 2:30 PM at Gilroy City Hall Plaza, 7351 Rosanna St.
To learn more about the proposed development, visit the 8th and Forest/Alexander project webpage.
Official Flyer English
Official Flyer Spanish
| | Swim This Summer at the Christopher High School Aquatics Center | | |
Take a dive this summer! There’s nothing better than heading to the pool on a hot summer day. Whether you are looking to cool down and have some fun by the pool, learn how to swim, or build your swimming skills, head over to Gilroy Christopher High School Aquatics Center this summer.
The aquatics center is open for recreation swim from noon to 5:00 PM, Tuesday to Sunday, through the month of August.
There’s fun for all ages, from toddlers to adults. Grab your sunscreen and towel, and we’ll see you at the pool!
For pool hours, rates, and more information, visit Gilroy CHS Aquatics Center.
| | Composting: Transforming Waste Into a Valuable Resource | | |
Composting is a great way to improve soil health and reduce waste.
You can compost numerous items, such as food scraps, pizza boxes, and yard trimmings, such as grass, branches, and leaves. Place compost items in the 96-gallon green organics cart, and avoid using plastic bags to transfer or collect food waste, as this can contaminate and harm the environment.
Please do not place plastic bags, animal waste, utensils, plastic-like items labeled “compostable” or “bioplastic,” palm fronds, yucca leaves, oleander, poison oak, painted or treated wood, wood furniture, or hazardous waste in the green organics cart.
These items can contaminate the organics waste stream and may be unsafe for workers.
If an item doesn’t belong in the organics cart and isn’t hazardous, bag it and place it in the garbage container. Hazardous waste requires special handling, so please don’t place it in any curbside container.
Questions about composting? Contact Recology South Valley at (408) 842- 3358 or visit Compost, Recycle, & Landfill - Recology South Valley: Gilroy
| | |
Attention Gilroy Artists!
Gilroy Elevate the Arts Grant Program Application Now Open
| | |
Calling all Gilroy artists! The City of Gilroy, in partnership with SVCREATES, is excited to invite local artists and arts organizations based in the Gilroy area, including Morgan Hill, San Martin, San Juan Bautista, and Hollister, to apply for the Gilroy Elevate the Arts Grant Program.
This program offers our local artists an opportunity to showcase their talent and help strengthen Gilroy’s arts community.
If your program or project takes place between September 1, 2026, and August 30, 2027, you are eligible to apply.
How to Apply
Online: Submit your application through the SVCREATES online portal.
Important Dates
-
Applicant Information Session: Monday, June 22 at 6:00 PM I Register
- Application Closes: July 10, 2026
- Panel Review and Scoring: July 13- July 31, 2026
- Award Notification: August 24, 2026
Grant Details
Eligible projects or programs must take place in Gilroy between September 1, 2026 and August 30, 2027. Funding awards will range from $3,000 to $10,000
For questions about this grant or application, visit SVCREATES website.
| | Spring Webinar Series: Permeable Everywhere | | |
You are invited to the final Valley Water Spring Webinar Series on Thursday, June 25, 2026. In this session, “Permeable Everywhere,” you will explore various ways to create permeable surfaces in your garden, whether using plants or hardscape.
Register Today.
Webinar Details
Topic: Permeable Everywhere
Date: Thursday, June 25, 2026
Time: 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM
| | |
Mental Health Matters at Every Age
Resources for Older Adults
| | |
As our loved ones age, they may face challenges such as social isolation, physical limitations, or financial stress, and these can have a real impact on their mental and emotional well‑being. Many people struggle with these changes, so recognize the signs early and reach out for support.
If you notice any changes in mood or behavior, withdrawal from others, loneliness, feelings of sadness, or any signs of self-harm, reach out for help. Early support can make a meaningful difference.
The Santa Clara County Behavioral Health Call Center is available to anyone in need of support. Call 1‑800‑704‑0900 for assistance.
For urgent crisis support, you can call 988, available 24/7, confidential, and offered in over 200 languages.
You’re not alone, and neither are the older adults in our community.
Visit the Resource Flyer
| | Explore Electric Vehicles at Gilroy’s EV Ride and Drive Event | | |
Join the Silicon Valley Clean Energy and Breathe California Gilroy EV Ride and Drive for a chance to explore the world of electric vehicles (EVs) in a fun and friendly atmosphere.
Event Details:
Date: Saturday, June 27, 2026
Time: 10:30 AM - 2:30 PM
Location: Gilroy City Hall Parking Lot,
7351 Rosanna Street.
What to Expect:
- Test Drive the Latest EVs: Enjoy a no-pressure environment as you get behind the wheel of the newest electric vehicles.
- Learn About Rebates: Discover how you can save big on your EV purchase with available rebates.
- Connect with EV Owners: Chat with real EV enthusiasts and get their insights and experiences.
This is a family-friendly event, so bring the whole family! Enjoy great music, face painting for the kids, a local food truck, and exciting raffle prizes.
Registration is FREE. Click the link to sign up and be part of this exciting event.
| | Santa Teresa Fire Station Staffing Report | | |
During the week of June 5, 2026, our firefighters staffed the Interim Santa Teresa Fire Station for four days.
We will staff the station as often as available personnel and responsible overtime practices allow.
When we have enough staffing, we will place the station in service with either:
- A Type 1 engine with three firefighters, or
- A Type 6 engine with two firefighters, depending on daily personnel availability.
On days when we do not have qualified personnel, we will leave the station unstaffed. This approach aligns with our winter-season operations.
We will continue to staff the station whenever heightened public safety concerns arise, including:
- State of emergency declarations
- Red Flag Warnings
- Fourth of July and surrounding weekends
- Potential flood conditions or other disasters
- Public events or gatherings where increased risk is identified
This weekly report is part of our ongoing commitment to transparency regarding the staffing status of the Santa Teresa Fire Station.
| |
Sharing the Love of Reading
Friends of the Gilroy Library Hosts Book Sale
| | |
The Friends of the Gilroy Library’s monthly book sale brought readers of all ages to browse shelves of treasures, from graphic novels, chapter books, audiobooks, DVDs, CDs, and more. It's a fun, welcoming event that fosters literacy, strengthens community connections, celebrates the joy of reading, and funds library activities year-round.
In addition to the monthly sales, the Friends of the Gilroy Library Bookstore, located inside the library lobby, is open during the week, offering regular opportunities for visitors to browse materials and support library initiatives.
If you’re looking to discover a hidden gem or perhaps your next summer read, stop by and see what treasures await.
Stop by the next book sale on Saturday, July 11, any time between 10:00 AM and 1:00 PM.
Hardcover books range from 25 cents to $1, or members can fill a bag with their selections for just $5.
For more information about bookstore hours, membership, and ways to support their efforts, visit Friends of the Gilroy Library
| | |
Have you noticed any potholes, water leaks, streetlight outages, tree issues, or have a neighborhood or city-related concern?
Our online service request portal and mobile app (available for download in app store), GilroyConnect, makes it easier than ever to report city-related concerns.
With just a few simple steps, you can submit your request, track your service request, and view other resident requests.
Once your request is submitted, you will have the option to create an account, which will give you access to additional features and to receive updates on your service request.
| | | Ask Gilroy: Your City, Your Questions! | | |
Thank you to everyone who submitted questions!
We've provided answers to some of the questions below, and look forward to more questions this week.
❓I’ve noticed that vehicle enthusiasts aren’t typically included in city events or have strong negative opinions about it. Could you share the city’s perspective on that? I’d love to know if there’s a way to collaborate or address any concerns so we could be part of future events? And bring the community together.
We appreciate any idea geared toward bringing the community together! With very few exceptions, the City of Gilroy does not currently plan or organize events. The City's role in events is focused on safety standards through the special event permitting process.
Community events in Gilroy are typically planned and organized by individual organizations. Decisions about themes, participants, and activities, including vehicle-related activities, are made by those event organizers. If you’d like to be part of future events, we encourage you to connect directly with the organizations that host the ones you’re interested in.
And for those persons or organizations who are interested in organizing a community event (or even certain private events), the City has a web page dedicated to the Special Event Permit process. This web page provides information about the permitting process, including links to additional information and associated resources.
| |
Have you ever wondered about Gilroy's infrastructure, upcoming developments, municipal services, or important community events? Your curiosity fuels our mission to provide you with answers.
📢 How It Works:
Ask Away: Drop your questions in the “Ask Gilroy” survey form
We Answer: Each week, we'll pick a question and provide a detailed answer in our weekly email
Stay Informed: Sign up for our emails to access our answers and stay in the loop.
It's time to unlock the mysteries of Gilroy together! Let's dive into the heart of our community and discover what makes our city tick.
👉 Ready to ask? Drop your questions in the survey form linked below and let’s go! 🚀
| |
City of Gilroy
Office Hours
Gilroy City Hall is open to the public Monday through Thursday, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM, and on Friday by appointment only.
City of Gilroy
(408) 846-0219
7351 Rosanna Street, Gilroy, CA 95020
www.cityofgilroy.org
| | | | |
