District-Based Elections — A Historic Democratic Shift

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Gilroy is making history in 2026. The city has transitioned from at-large elections to district-based elections, and November 2026 will be the first time Gilroy residents vote by district — with Districts 4, 5, and 6 on the ballot, and candidates filing from July 13 to August 7. The shift was driven by concerns that at-large voting systems can dilute the political representation of minority and working-class communities — a significant consideration in a city with a large Latino population concentrated in specific neighborhoods. District elections give residents a direct representative accountable specifically to their neighborhood rather than to a citywide electorate. Once the new City Council is seated after the November 3, 2026 election, a new legislative work plan will be established — meaning this election will set Gilroy's policy direction for the next two years.

Related cause: Governance

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