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April was a month of powerful momentum across Santa Clara. From setting clear priorities for our city’s future to celebrating our rich history, and from cutting ribbons to building new bonds of trust, this month has been a reminder that Santa Clara’s strength lies in both its proud past and its bright future.
Here is a look at what we accomplished and what lies ahead:
This month, the City Council came together for our annual Priority Setting sessions, a time to step back, reflect, and ensure our goals align with the community's needs and values.
Through honest conversation and collaborative work, we reaffirmed that Santa Clara continues to be defined by trust, transparency, fiscal responsibility, inclusivity, and smart, sustainable growth. While there are countless tasks and projects that fall under each category, they all ultimately point back to our core values. Although I’m not sure how each project or task was ranked, and there is still important work ahead for staff to connect our vision with implementation, this meeting was incredibly helpful for me in better understanding our city's big-picture identity.
As Santa Clara continues to evolve, these guiding principles must remain at the center of our leadership—ensuring that every decision honors both the Santa Clara of today and the one we are building for future generations.
Chief Cory Morgan, Sgt. Ron Thorp, Sgt. Rick Souza, Asst. Chief Al Code, Sgt. Rex Macer, Lt. John Bermudes, Vice Mayor - Kelly Cox, Sgt. Ted Keech, Reserve Officer Fred Formosa
One of my favorite gatherings continues to be my regular coffee chats with the retired members of the Santa Clara Police Department. This incredible group has welcomed me into their circle, sharing stories that are equally hilarious, humbling, and deeply insightful. Their experiences are a reminder of the strong legacy of service and sacrifice that has shaped our city. I am continually amazed at how much policing has developed—through advancements in policy, technology, and community engagement. Yet through all of this evolution, one thing has remained unchanged: the heart and courage of the men and women who choose to serve.
This month, we were also joined by Chief Cory Morgan, who brought fresh perspectives while honoring the legacy of those who came before him. I'm grateful to Chief Morgan and to all the retired members for the honest, lively conversations that keep me grounded in the realities of public safety.
On Sunday, April 27, I had the privilege of attending the PEACE program (Police Engagement And Community Education). The PEACE program is an invaluable opportunity for civilians to step into the complexity of modern policing; to understand the immediate, high-stakes decision-making officers are often forced to make under extreme and unpredictable circumstances. It’s easy from the outside to simplify or judge these moments. The truth is far more complex.
This program is critical in helping break down some of the broad-stroke rhetoric that can paint officers as unduly aggressive or biased. While it is important to acknowledge that work remains to ensure equity, accountability, and continual improvement in policing, it is equally important to recognize the extraordinary professionalism, bravery, and heart that so many officers bring to their service every day.
I am immensely grateful for the Santa Clara Police Department, for those retired and active, who not only tackle the evolving challenges of modern policing head-on but continue to lead with integrity, compassion, and a deep pride in serving our community.
The PEACE program reflects the kind of proactive engagement we need to strengthen public trust and mutual understanding—and I look forward to sharing more once the program concludes.
Santa Clara is experiencing a significant resurgence. According to the California Department of Finance, from April 2020 to January 2023, our city saw a 3% population increase, adding over 4,300 residents—the fastest growth among Bay Area cities with populations over 50,000. In the past year alone, more than 2,000 people have made Santa Clara their home, reflecting a 1.5% uptick. This growth is mirrored in our housing developments. Over the last three years, Santa Clara expanded its housing stock by over 6%, outpacing other large Bay Area cities. Notably, the city added more than 2,600 new multifamily housing units, marking a 12.5% increase.
This month, we celebrated the openings of The Ellore and The Clara, the first two residential projects within the Related Santa Clara development as well as The Lafayette, from SummerHill. These beautifully (and I mean so beautifully) designed buildings signify the beginning of a vibrant new mixed-use community that blends residential living with parks, retail, and cultural spaces.
It's been a long journey. The initial approval for the Related Project dates back to June 2016, when the Santa Clara City Council endorsed what was then the largest private development project in Silicon Valley history. Similarly, the SummerHill was approved in 2016 as part of the Tasman East Specific Plan. 8 years. Cutting the ribbon on these Northside projects felt like more than just a grand opening—it symbolized our city's resilience and revival post-pandemic.
While the development landscape has evolved since the original plans, the excitement surrounding these projects' progression is undeniable and needed. The momentum we are witnessing today represents not just economic growth, but the renewal of community energy and opportunity for Santa Clara.With that, I am particularly excited to see our new Director of Economic Development, Reena Brilliot, help lead us into this next chapter of Santa Clara’s history. Reena brings a strong vision, a deep understanding of our city's unique character, and a commitment to fostering smart, sustainable development. With her leadership, I am confident that Santa Clara will continue to grow in a way that honors our roots while embracing the future.
 Looking for a new favorite local spot? Aces Icehouse at the historic Pruneridge Golf Club deserves a visit this month! Nestled within the historic Pruneridge Golf Club, Aces Icehouse brings a fresh, Southern-inspired flair to Santa Clara's dining scene. Drawing inspiration from traditional Southern icehouses—casual, open-air establishments known for their relaxed atmosphere and communal vibe—Aces offers a welcoming space for both golfers and locals alike.
The menu boasts all-American favorites, with the standout being Pruneridge's famous smoked Tri-Tip sandwich. Complementing the hearty fare is a selection of twelve rotating craft and domestic beers on tap, featuring local breweries like Stone, Barebottle, and Lagunitas. Whether you're winding down after a round of golf or simply seeking a cozy spot to relax, Aces' patio with its inviting firepit provides the perfect setting. Check out more here!
Donuts and Discussions with Assemblymember Patrick Ahrens: May 10 at 10 a.m., Academic Coffee at the Agrihood. Join us at the Santa Clara Agrihood on Friday, May 10 at 10 a.m. for a casual conversation and community gathering with Assemblymember Patrick Ahrens. Coffee, donuts, and direct dialogue, what better way to start a Saturday?
Annual Citywide Clean-Up Campaign Spring cleaning, Santa Clara style! The Annual Clean-Up Campaign is underway—helping residents clear bulky items and keep our neighborhoods beautiful. Check the City's website for your neighborhood’s assigned date and collection information.
Senior Center Health and Wellness Fair – May 9, 16, and 23 The Santa Clara Senior Center will host a four-week Health and Wellness Fair each Friday in May. Each Friday will feature different health screenings, resources, and activities to support senior well-being and community connection.
Sunset Cinema at Live Oak Park – Shrek 2 on May 9 Grab your blanket and join us on Thursday, May 9th at Live Oak Park for an outdoor showing of Shrek 2! The movie starts at sunset and promises to be a fun evening for the whole family.
Relay for Life – May 10 at Franklin Square Come support a beautiful cause at Santa Clara’s Relay for Life on Saturday, May 10th at Franklin Square. Celebrate survivors, honor those we've lost, and raise funds for cancer research and support services. I will be there from 2 - 9 p.m. and hope to see you there!
April reminded me that leadership is rooted in connection - in listening to the people who built this city, honoring their service, and carrying their lessons forward. The heroes among us, past and present, continue to teach us that progress is not only measured by what we build, but by how deeply we stay connected to those we serve.
As I move forward in my role, I carry these lessons with me. I am committed to fostering stronger relationships between our residents, our public servants, and our city leadership. I am committed to ensuring that trust, transparency, and respect are not just words we say, but the standards we live by.
Whether it is through new housing, smarter development, safer neighborhoods, or building public trust through programs like PEACE, my focus remains clear: to honor the history that made Santa Clara strong, and to shape a future where every resident feels seen, heard, and valued. Thank you for continuing to believe in the spirit of Santa Clara. Together, we are not just building a city, we are strengthening a community.
With gratitude and grit,
 Kelly
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