Policy Updates

In this edition of the Chamber newsletter, we’re highlighting key initiatives and recent advocacy successes that reflect our commitment to driving progress for San Jose’s businesses and community. From supporting the City Council’s decision for a special election in District 3 to advocating for transformative projects like Good Samaritan Hospital’s rezoning and BART Phase II funding, the Chamber continues to champion growth and opportunity. Your membership enables this engagement. Not a member yet? Join today!

Special Election to Fill Vacant District 3 Seat 

The San Jose Chamber of Commerce supported a special election to fill the vacated District 3 Council seat, allowing residents to elect their representative for the remaining term. To maintain continuity, the Chamber recommended appointing an interim Councilmember with a non-candidacy commitment for the transitional period. Additionally, the Chamber requested that an interim appointment occur in January 2025 as the new Council steps into their seats. Ultimately, the City Council voted 8-2 for a special election and will bring the item back to Council on December 3rd to discuss the process for an interim appointment.  

Support for Good Samaritan Hospital’s Rezoning Application

The San Jose Chamber of Commerce advocated in support of Good Samaritan Hospital’s rezoning application, joining a wide coalition including labor unions, hospital staff, and local members of the community. The $1.2 billion project, which is required to comply with state seismic safety laws, will create 1,000 construction jobs and boost city tax revenue. If not approved on Tuesday, delays could have threatened the nearly 2,000 jobs the hospital creates. Thanks to the significant support of Councilmember Pam Foley, the project passed with unanimous approval from the City Council.

Supporting State Funding for BART Phase II to Silicon Valley 

The San Jose Chamber of Commerce submitted a letter of support to the California Transportation Commission to fund BART Silicon Valley Phase II through the Solutions for Congested Corridors and Local Partnership Program. BART Phase II to Silicon Valley has numerous benefits including improving rail connectivity, reducing congestion, supporting economic growth, and providing equitable, sustainable transportation options. It will connect San Jose to key Bay Area job centers, create 75,000 jobs in building it, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions, benefiting residents and businesses in Santa Clara County and the broader region. 

Recognizing City efforts to Prepare for Major Sporting Events 

2026 will be the year of sports in the South Bay, starting with Super Bowl LX in February, NCAA Men’s Basketball West Regional Games in March and the FIFA World Cup from June-July. These events combined are expected to bring an economic impact of over $500 million to Santa Clara County, will fill our hotels, restaurants and arts venues and energize our communities with game watches and fandom. The Chamber supported the City’s work in preparing for these events at the November 19 Council meeting and looks forward to supporting the policies and infrastructure needed to maximize the success of these events. 

Impact Investor Fireside Chat with Mayor Matt Mahan

Thank you to Mayor Matt Mahan for joining our Impact Investor event at the Chamber on November 14th. Attendees heard the Mayor’s reflections on the 2024 election at the local, state and national level with insight into what he sees on the horizon. Interested in learning how to become an Impact Investor? Reach out to Angela Kelly at angelak@sjchamber.com for information!

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