August Newsletter 2026

Friday, July 31

Dear Neighbors,

I hope you've had a fun, restful, and cool summer so far. Our team has taken some time to regroup and recharge over the past few weeks, and we're ready for a busy and productive second half of 2026. 

This month's newsletter is packed with updates on District 6 and citywide initiatives, community events, and an important announcement about staffing changes to our District 6 team. 

National Night Out is coming up on Tuesday, August 4, 2026, and we look forward to celebrating with neighborhoods across District 6. If your neighborhood association, HOA, apartment community, or block is planning to host a National Night Out event and would like us to stop by, please reply to this email with your event details. D6 boasts a very high volume of gatherings so we won’t make it to all of them. Even so, we would love to know about your plans to develop our best, most impactful route. 

City Council meetings will also return from summer recess on August 11, and we look forward to continuing our work on the issues that matter most to our neighborhoods. 

While I don’t want to steal Jessica’s thunder, she’s written a beautiful good-bye letter to District 6 below, and I'd like to thank her publicly for giving us her all each and every day. Smart, intuitive, curious, baker extraordinaire, and a staunch community advocate, Jessica will be missed in our office. But as all great staff do, they find great people to replace them, and I will let Jessica make that introduction. 

As always, thank you for staying engaged and for helping make District 6 a vibrant, welcoming community. 

Best,

Michael Mulcahy

San José City Councilmember, District 6

Public Announcements

A Thank You to District 6

Jessica's Farewell

Dear District 6,   

As I prepare for my next chapter, I want to take one final opportunity to thank you for the privilege of serving District 6. 

For the past 19 months, the District 6 Newsletter and E-letter have been a passion project for Councilmember Mulcahy and me. From the beginning, we wanted to provide timely, transparent, and accessible information that helped residents understand the work happening at City Hall. I hope they've done just that. 

But beyond these newsletters, this work has always been personal. 

District 6 is home. I was raised here. I attended our public schools, spent afternoons at our libraries, played at Arena Green when the carousel was still running, begged my dad for trips to Greenlee's Bakery, got my first pet fish from Andy's Pet Shop, and saved up every summer for frozen yogurt at Willow Glen Creamery. This community taught me how to be a good neighbor and an engaged citizen. I would not be the person I am today without the people and places of District 6. 

I still remember the first constituent I was able to help. A neighborhood had finally received new speed humps, but the contractor had overlooked the final striping, making them difficult for drivers to see. We were able to get the crew back out to finish the job. It wasn't a headline-making accomplishment, but it taught me an important lesson about public service. Making a difference isn't always about passing major policies.

More often, it's about solving the problem right in front of you. A streetlight. A pothole. Cleaning up blight. The kinds of things that can make someone's day a little safer, a little easier, and remind people that government can work.

I hope you know that everyone in our office shares that same commitment. When something isn't working the way it should, we feel that frustration too. We care deeply about this district and serving you has always been our motivation.

Over the past year and a half, this work has welcomed me into neighborhoods, homes, businesses, and community centers across District 6. The projects mattered, but what I'll remember most are the people behind them. I've met neighbors who dedicate their weekends to improving their blocks, small business owners who pour their hearts into our commercial corridors, community leaders who tirelessly advocate for those in need, and City employees who solve problems most residents will never know existed.

Day after day, the people of San José reminded me that strong communities aren't built by any one project or person. They're built by people who choose to show up for one another long after the ribbon-cutting is over. I have witnessed extraordinary generosity, resilience, and kindness across District 6, and those experiences have changed me forever.

That is why it is bittersweet to share that, after sending this newsletter, I will be leaving the District 6 Office to attend UC Berkeley School of Law. As excited and honored as I am for what comes next, leaving this community isn't easy.

You all have inspired me to pursue a legal education and a career dedicated to strengthening communities, expanding opportunity, and helping build institutions that earn the public's trust. I hope to carry the lessons you've taught me wherever that path leads.

While I may be moving on to my next chapter, the work of serving District 6 continues. I am excited for you to get to know Lauren Babich, who will be stepping into the role of Community Relations Director. Lauren is thoughtful, compassionate, and committed to serving this community, and I know District 6 will be in excellent hands.

Thank you, D6. It has been an honor.

Best,

Jessica Hellman

A Warm Welcome to Lauren Babich

We are thrilled to welcome and introduce Lauren Babich, who has joined our office this past month as our new Community Relations Director. Lauren grew up in Newark, CA, where her passion for community work started as she was elected to ASB, heavily involved in sports, and volunteered for various roles in her hometown that provided free events, food drives, and accessible programs to residents.

She attended UC Davis for three years, graduating with a major in political science and a minor in economics. Lauren previously worked as a Field Representative for State Assemblymember Gail Pellerin in their San Jose District Office, and she might be recognized in the Willow Glen area for her prior work. Other experience includes interning with the California Governor’s Office of Emergency Service's International Affairs department in Sacramento.

In her personal life, she is involved with California’s Silicon Valley Young Democrats and enjoys supporting the women’s sports teams across the Bay Area with friends. Please give Lauren a warm welcome, as she looks forward to serving and building strong relationships with our amazing constituents of District 6 in her new role.

Kayak Down the Guadalupe River

Councilmember Mulcahy invites you to experience downtown San José from a whole new perspective. Join us this Saturday, August 1, 9AM to 12PM, for a free community kayaking event on the Guadalupe River. Plus, enjoy refreshing lemonade provided to you by Lemon Leaf Drinks, and sponsored by Marianne and Carl Salas. This event is free and open to adults ages 18 and older. Children are welcome to attend but not permitted to kayak. All kayaks, paddles, and life jackets will be provided, although there may be limited availability. We encourage you to bring your own kayak (BYOK) and equipment, if able.

Free parking, courtesy of your San Jose Sharks, is available in the lot off Delmas Avenue. We will kick off the event at the “Beach” area in Arena Green East, located under the Santa Clara Street Bridge. The Beach is accessible via the stairway leading down from the bridge. We look forward to seeing you on the water for a fun morning of recreation, community, and a unique view from the heart of downtown San José.

District Project Updates 

Beautification Projects Underway

Several exciting beautification projects have recently been completed or are currently underway in District 6. We’re excited to highlight these new public art improvements and hope you’ll take time to go check them out. A sincere thank you to Caltrans, the Guadalupe River Park Conservancy, the San Jose Sharks, the San José Downtown Association, San Jose Conservation Corps, and Little Italy San Jose, along with many other partners whose collaboration made these projects possible.

The mural at the Guadalupe River "beach," located just below the W. Santa Clara Street bridge, was completed earlier this year, transforming a plain concrete wall into a vibrant work of art. Featuring a striking blue backdrop and steelhead salmon of varying sizes, the mural celebrates the river's natural ecosystem. The piece was completed by artist Z Dillon.

Meanwhile, the Little Italy mural project at Highway 87 and Sharks Way is actively taking shape. This exciting collaboration with many of the same partners, including Mayor Matt Mahan, will further enhance one of Downtown San José's most historic neighborhoods. Artist Z Dillon is painting the "Little Italy" placemaking initiative on the north and east sides of the Highway 87 overpass, while Roberto Romo is leading the embankment work. We look forward to sharing the finished project soon.

In the District

Creekside Socials

Rose, White, and Blue Parade

This year marks a major milestone in our nation's history as America celebrates its 250th birthday. On Saturday, July 4, our office was proud to celebrate the Fourth of July alongside District 6 residents by marching down The Alameda in the Rose, White, and Blue Parade. This multicultural celebration brought together residents from all over San José to celebrate our diverse cultures, the perseverance of democracy, and shared passion in strengthening community.

Councilmember Mulcahy joined by The Alameda Park Neighborhood Association, Willow Glen Neighborhood Association, District 6 Youth Commissioners, and more.

Councilmember Mulcahy had the opportunity to give remarks and introduce other elected officials speaking, which included his colleagues on the San José City Council, David Cohen and Rosemary Kamei, as well as State Assemblymember Gail Pellerin, Santa Clara County Supervisor Susan Ellenberg, and U.S. Congressman Sam Liccardo.

After the parade, festivities continued with performances by featured artists and entertainers proudly representing their heritage, as well as local food trucks, vendors, and resource booths. This day was a great reminder to slow down and connect with loved ones, celebrate our achievements, and positively move forward to another 250 years of American history. It was a great time seeing you all at this event, and we are excited to celebrate a similar milestone for the City of San José in 2027. 

Italian Family Festa

On Saturday, July 25, Councilmember Mulcahy had the pleasure of attending and giving remarks at the 44th Annual Italian Family Festa, hosted at History Park in San José. This celebration highlighted yet another successful year of San José residents coming together to preserve Italian culture and history. This year’s event welcomed featured guests, the Sbandieratori e Musici of Faenza, Italy, to present their traditional flag throwing, music, and medieval pageantry. We are honored that the group traveled to San José to share their talents with us all.  

Councilmember Mulcahy, Mayor Mahan, and District 3 Council Office Representative Ra Hopkins presented a commendation to the Italian American Heritage Foundation of San José (IAHF), which was accepted by President Dana Zuccarello Aguirre on behalf of the organization.

The event holds a special place in the Councilmember’s heart, as he is a DiNapoli from Tricarico, Italy in the Basilicata region of Southern Italy, and very proud of his Italian heritage. His great-grandparents, Maria and Rocco, arrived in San Jose in January 1900. He is also proud to represent a district that is central to the Italian immigrant’s history with Goosetown, Torino Hotel, and many other centers of Italian settlement. 

A special thank you to those who made this event possible: the Italian American Heritage Foundation of San José, its board and leadership, History San Jose, all of the generous sponsors, dedicated volunteers, and the local host families whose hard work and hospitality make this event possible year after year. We look forward to the big 45th annual in July 2027.

Councilmember Mulcahy, Juan Toscano-Anderson, Ruthie Bolton, and more.

Upcoming Events & Community Meetings

Community Resources

2026 District Attorney’s Office Bend the Arc Grant Program

The Santa Clara County District Attorney’s Office is accepting applications for its Asset Forfeiture for Racial Justice Grant Program, which provides grants of up to $5,000 to organizations, individuals, and groups working to address racial inequities and promote equity in Santa Clara County.

Funded through assets seized from criminal organizations, the program supports community-led efforts that benefit marginalized communities and help prevent future crime. Applications are due Friday, August 14, 2026. Interested applicants should submit a one-page letter of interest to hmeza@dao.sccgov.org.

AI Training at Your Own Level & Pace

Looking to build new skills? Take advantage of free learning opportunities through work2future and the San José Public Library. Work2future's METRIX Online Learning platform offers thousands of online courses to help you build career skills, while the San José Public Library's AI Resource Hub features free workshops and learning modules designed to help residents explore and better understand artificial intelligence. Learn more and get started by visiting the work2future and SJPL websites.

Tamien Caltrain Station Closure 

To support the Guadalupe Bridge Replacement Project, Caltrain will suspend weekend service to Tamien Station for 3 weekends in August and September. Closure of the station is required as crews need to perform critical bridge work located between Tamien and San Jose Diridon stations. We had a similar closure of the station last year, although this closure will be limited to the upcoming weekends below:   

• Aug 8-9 and 22-23,  
• Sept 19-20 

Given the low weekend ridership on the bus bridge last year, Caltrain will not have a bus bridge between Tamien and San Jose Diridon for these weekend closures. VTA does have rail and bus service between the two stations as an alternative. Service north of Diridon Station will remain unaffected. 

Share Your Input on the Future Name of Plaza de César Chávez

The City of San José wants to hear from you. A community survey is now open to gather public input on the proposed renaming of Plaza de César Chávez. Residents are invited to participate in a ranked-choice survey, allowing you to share your preferences and help inform the City's decision. Your feedback is an important part of this community-driven process. 

The survey is open now and will remain available for public participation. We encourage all interested residents to take a few minutes to make their voices heard.

Opioid Overdose Prevention Grants Now Open

The City of San José is now accepting applications for the Opioid Overdose Prevention Grant Program, which provides funding to organizations implementing prevention services and awareness initiatives aimed at reducing opioid overdoses and related deaths in our community. 

Organizations proposing services between February 1, 2027, and January 31, 2028, are encouraged to apply. Applications must be submitted online through WebGrants by 4:00 p.m. on Tuesday, September 1, 2026. For more information, visit the Opioid Overdose Prevention Grant Program webpage or contact Crystal Betances at crystal.betances@sanjoseca.gov. 

SJC Premium Parking

SJC Premium Parking is now available by advance reservation, offering travelers a more convenient and seamless way to begin their journey. Located in a dedicated VIP section of SJC's closest public parking garage (Hourly Lot 2), Premium Parking provides guaranteed covered parking less than a one-minute walk from Terminal A.

Whether traveling for business or leisure, passengers can arrive with confidence knowing their parking space is reserved. To celebrate the launch, travelers can save more than 20% per day with promo code LOT2VIP and earn double Park Perks rewards points for a limited time.

Community Cycles Requesting Bicycle Donations

Do you have a bike collecting dust in your garage? Donate it to Community Cycles of California and turn it into opportunity. At Community Cycles of California, we believe bikes change lives. Every donated bike goes through a comprehensive 60-point refurbishment and safety inspection by our trained staff and workforce development participants. From there, your bike takes one of two impactful paths:

• It may go directly into our Earn-A-Bike program supporting unhoused and low-income neighbors in gaining reliable transportation. Participants complete six hours of community service and earn a free, refurbished bike of their own.
• Or it may be sold through our nonprofit social enterprise, with 100% of proceeds reinvested into our free bike programs, workforce training, and community repair clinics.



Your unused bike can become reliable transportation, a pathway to

employment, or a source of independence for someone in our community.

We accept:

• Quality bikes of all types and sizes
• Bikes with flat tires or few broken/missing parts
• Gently used parts and accessories

Ready to donate? Come by 35 Wilson Ave Tuesday - Saturday from 10AM - 5PM. All donations are tax deductible.

District 6 Community Emergency Response Team (CERT)

District 6 CERT is a volunteer group of CERT members meet monthly to prepare for emergencies and be a resource in our neighborhoods. Meetings are generally held on the LAST Thursday of each month (except November - December). D6 CERT appreciates and welcomes your participation.

Are you interested in becoming a part of the City of San José Community Emergency Response Team? Or maybe you are already trained and looking to connect with other CERT members in your neighborhood.

Questions? Email sjcertd6@gmail.com.