May 2025
As spring fully blossoms across our community this May, I’m delighted to connect with you through this month’s newsletter. The renewed energy of the season mirrors our own civic momentum as we launch several exciting initiatives and community events in the coming weeks.
Our annual Spring Cleanup Month begins in May, offering most residents the chance to place unwanted household items at the curb for city pickup. While our streets may temporarily look a bit cluttered during this time, this initiative serves a wonderful purpose by allowing neighbors to recycle, reuse, and repurpose items while decluttering their homes. This community-wide refresh embodies our commitment to sustainability and responsible waste management. Remember, what might be trash to you could be treasure to someone else, so we encourage everyone to browse respectfully before items are collected by our public works teams.
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With heavy hearts, we mourn the loss of Former Councilwoman Debi Davis, who passed away after a brief illness. Debi’s unwavering dedication to Santa Clara touched countless lives through her years of service. Her remarkable ability to listen compassionately, build bridges, and advocate for our community’s needs made her truly special. As we remember her wisdom and warmth, our city stands united in gratitude for her contributions. Our deepest sympathies extend to her husband Bill Davis and family. Details for a Celebration of Life will be announced soon so we may come together to honor her extraordinary legacy.
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We had a wonderful time welcoming the next generation of leaders to Santa Clara City Hall for our annual Take Your Child to Work Day! It was inspiring to see so many bright and curious young faces exploring the important work their family members do to keep our city thriving. When I was young, my father, who also served as Mayor of Santa Clara, used to bring me to City Hall, which was an experience that inspired my own path into public service. From touring City departments and sitting in a real fire engine, watching a pole climb and backhoe demonstration, to making street signs and becoming “Mayor for the Day”, the activities sparked creativity, learning, and lots of smiles. Thank you to our city staff and Employee Engagement Committee for planning such a fun and educational experience. The energy and excitement from the day reminded us that the future of Santa Clara is bright!
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I was delighted to present a Mayoral Recognition to the Mission College Sustainability Committee at their annual Eco Fair. This Earth Day event brought our community together with recycling opportunities, gardening expertise, and sustainability education. It was particularly inspiring to meet Silicon Valley Power’s bright interns, Jelani Finkley from San Jose State University, and Sosna Araya from Santa Clara University, whose involvement demonstrates how our next generation is actively shaping sustainable solutions for our community. My gratitude to Mission College’s Associated Student Government and Sustainability Committee for their leadership in creating a greener future for our campus and city.
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Santa Clara is proud to be hosting six FIFA World Cup matches in 2026 as well as Super Bowl 60, showcasing our vibrant community to millions around the world. To ensure these major events benefit our city without burdening our residents, the City Council and Stadium Authority Board have adopted clear guiding principles focused on cost reimbursement, community engagement, and financial protection.
As your Mayor, I am committed to making sure that all event-related costs, especially public safety expenses, are fully reimbursed by the Bay Area Host Committee and that these events do not negatively impact our public funds. While maintaining a firm stance on protecting Santa Clara’s interests, I fully support the excitement and pride these historic events bring to our community. I look forward to working with all the partners to deliver a safe, successful, and unforgettable experience for Santa Clara.
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It was a joy to join the community in celebrating the vibrant traditions of the Filarmonica Uniao Portuguesa de Santa Clara, (the Portuguese Band). The evening began with the traditional march and music, followed by a delicious dinner, a spirited band presentation, and lively dancing. In honor of the 51st anniversary of this cherished cultural event, I proudly presented a Mayoral Recognition to John Dias, who accepted on behalf of the band, which has been an integral part of the treasured fabric of our community. Special thanks to the organizers for hosting such a spirited celebration and to the talented musicians for their outstanding performances. Happy 51st Anniversary!
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As we close out the month of May, I want to take a moment to recognize the incredible mothers across our city, the women who shape our families, our neighborhoods, and our future. Whether managing a busy household, leading a team, or running a billion-dollar corporation, every mother brings strength, resilience, and boundless love to everything she does.
As a proud mother of three, I know firsthand that motherhood is one of life’s greatest – and toughest – callings. This Mother’s Day, we celebrate the spirit, sacrifice, and unstoppable determination of all the amazing moms who make Santa Clara such a wonderful place to call home.
Happy Mother’s Day!
Mayor Lisa M. Gillmor
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