When most politicos say “2016”, they are talking about the Presidential race to succeed Barack Obama. But in the neighborhoods of San Jose Council District 6, the jockeying for position to replace Pierluigi Oliverio after his 10-year reign of error has begun in earnest.
District 6 is one of the most, if not the most politically active areas in San Jose.With involved citizens from Willow Glen, the Rose Garden, Shasta-Hanchett, College Park, Cory, Canoas Garden, North Willow Glen, Buena Vista, Pamlar and Sherman Oaks neighborhoods often appearing before commissions and the Council. The number of people who may enter this race is staggering if the early rumors are even half true.
So who are these folks?
Quickly out of the gate has been Erik Fong, a recently appointed Parks Commissioner who is bright, energetic and new to the community. He approached me well before my tears even dried. A recent Facebook posting showed he is putting together a National Night Out at Willow Glen’s Bramhall Park.
Also in the mix is Peter Allen. The long-time Democratic activist and political consultant moved back to Willow Glen shortly after the 2012 election. He is an Arts Commissioner and is well known for some inappropriate comments during last year’s Chavez / Alvarado contest for County Supervisor. He has become strongly involved with the Willow Glen Neighborhood Association (WGNA) after wrestling control from a troubled leadership.
Another youthful prospect is Chris Roth. He opened a Facebook political page over a year ago and is requesting likes. A member of the Library Commission, many believe him to be the heir apparent to the Oliverio legacy as he is often seen in consultative talks with Oliverio confidant, Terry Reilly. He assisted Peter Allen with the recent WGNA coup and is very much working every room.
Former Parks Commission Chair, former President of Shasta-Hanchett Neighborhood Association and strong environmentalist, Helen Chapman has not been dispelling rumors of her interest in a possible run. Well known through the district because of her active involvement in neighborhood issues, she would be a formidable candidate, and a critical add as a woman on a male dominated council.
Finally, for now, there is Alex Shoor, aide to Supervisor and prior D6 Councilmember, Ken Yeager. As part of his responsibilities, he has been at many neighborhood meetings and is well spoken about many issues on behalf of the Supervisor.
Adding to the above list are the following names that have been dropped in quiet conversations – Joe Head, Art Maurice (ran in 2006), Norm Kline (former Saratoga Mayor & San Jose Planning Commission member — no relation), Michael Mulcahey, (Baseball San Jose and former Mayoral candidate), Scott Nease (Downtown Business Association President) or his wife, Autumn Young (former San Jose Evergreen Trustee), David Ginsborg (former Water District candidate) and of course, how could I forget, Bill Chew – the perpetual, roller-skating candidate.
One thing is certain: the race is wide open. But it is a long way to June, 2016 … If I missed someone, don’t hesitate to let me know … this is going to be fun to watch.
Steve Kline is an attorney and neighborhood activist. He ran for Council District 6 in 2012.
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