“The only constant is change”
– Heraclitus, the Greek philosopher uttered these words over 500 years before the birth of Christ. How brilliant was he to quip this ditty that has stood the test of time for over 2500 years?
When it comes to south county leadership, there have been lots of changes in late 2022 and early 2023. Some have moved on, and others are on their way. Some have termed out, and others are just beginning their terms. It’s reassuring to know that as people move on to new challenges and new phases in life, others are stepping up and stepping into those roles. Still more are ready to step in as things continue to change and leadership roles become available as we roll into 2023. We are encouraged to see so many people who care about improving the quality of life in our communities —those who have served, and those who will be serving in new leadership roles.
Our communities can only thrive to the level that our leaders are capable, committed, and courageous. As we consider our latest class of south county leaders, we think our communities are in great hands! People on the move in 2022 and 2023 are:
Mark Turner: Gilroy Chamber CEO becomes Mayor of Morgan Hill
Former Gilroy Chamber of Commerce President / CEO Mark Turner took the oath of office as Mayor of Morgan Hill on December 14th, 2022 in the Morgan Hill City Council chambers.
The chambers were filled to capacity – with over 200 people in attendance. Also sworn in that evening were District D Councilmember Marilyn Librers, who won the seat over incumbent John McKay. District B Councilmember Yvonne Martinez Beltran took the oath after being re-elected to a second term.
Turner is a 30-year resident of Morgan Hill, where he and wife Sue raised three daughters. The Turners have added two sons-in-law and three grandchildren. Mark’s commitment to the community began decades ago, when he and Sue decided to move from San Jose to a community where they could get involved and make a difference.
All of South County has benefitted from the Turners involvement over the years. Mark has supported local schools, non-profit organizations including Operation Freedom Paws, DreamPower Horsemanship, St. Louise Regional Hospital Foundation, Pratham USA and the Cystic Fibrosis- Northern CA Chapter, among others. Mark has been the Director of Wreaths Across America, South County Chapter, since 2014, raising over $18,000 each year to provide and place wreaths on the gravesites of veterans buried in Morgan Hill and Gilroy. He is a Board member of the Morgan Hill Foundation.
Mark brings 10 years of CEO experience to his new role as mayor. He has served on numerous executive boards and was named Chamber Executive of the Year in 2020 by the Western Association of Chamber Executives. (W.A.C.E.). Most importantly, Mark brings a stong work ethic, a ‘can-do” attitude,” an impeccable reputation as a leader-by-example, and a love for community service. We think Mark is the right person at the right time for Morgan Hill. We wish him and the City of Morgan Hill the very best.
Marilyn Librers: 46-year Morgan Hill Resident Elected to City Council
Marilyn was elected as the District D Councilmember, winning out over Incumbent John McKay, who served one term. Marilyn previously served eight years as a councilmember from 2008 thru 2016, when elections where at-large and members represented the entire city. During her two terms she also served as vice-mayor. Marilyn vows to represent her District well, and represent the entire community, citing “I do not want to see Morgan Hill lose the charm that brought us all here to raise our families.”
Marilyn hopes her dedication to openness and fairness serve the community well. She makes herself available to meet with anyone, and feels it is important to hear all sides of an issue before making a decision. Her goals include supporting slow growth, police and fire to ensure a safe community, increase tourism, and address the unhoused and mental illness issues facing the community.
Her two biggest goals are to help keep the small-town feeling and restore the professionalism on the City Council.
Marilyn is currently the President of China Silicon Valley Association. promoting trade and collaboration between the two nations. She frequently travels to Mainland China for conferences as a key note speaker, panelist and government negotiator. Her experience includes non-profit management, entrepreneur startups, project management, political and business fund development.
She is a 45 year resident of Morgan Hill, a past board member and current member of the Morgan Hill Rotary, a board member of the Community Law Enforcement Foundation and the Morgan Hill Downtown Association.
Tom Cline: Gilroy Elects Cline to City Council
Business owner and long time Gilroyan Tom Cline was the top vote-getter in the November 8th election to Gilroy City Council. In addition to operating Cline Glass Contractors since 2011, Tom has served as a board member and past president of the Gilroy Garlic Festival. He volunteers at his church, New Hope Community Church in Gilroy, where he and his family have attended for over 30 years.
Tom plans to address the divisiveness – real and perceived – that exists on the dias. He wants to tackle the tough problems the city faces like homelessness, job growth, creating more local well paying jobs, and improving the quality of life for all residents. Tom has the experience and knowledge to help the city address rising costs and look for ways to increase revenue. He cites public safety as a top concern, and had the endorsements of the Gilroy Police and Fire Associations, and Santa Clara County District Attorney Jeff Rosen. During the campaign, Tom had allies on both side of the isle, garnering the support of former and current public officials, numerous local businesses and individuals. It is Tom’s character, experience, and ability to have tough conversations with respect and an open mind that will continue to serve him well in his new position as councilmember.
Tom served as president of the Garlic Festival during a very challenging two-year period for the organization. It was his willingness to step into the difficult role and lead through uncertain times after the 2019 festival incident that changed the course of the future for the organization and the community at-large.
Tom’s volunteer efforts includes board seats with the Gilroy Chamber of Commerce, Visit Gilroy California Welcome Center, Gilpac, Gilroy Economic Development Partnership, and New Hope Community Church. He was recognized as the Gilroy Chamber of Commerce 2021 Man of the Year.
Tom has served the community of Gilroy for over three decades. The community has benefitted from the impact he has made. In his new role, he hopes to make an even bigger impact and represent the entire community by making decisions for the long term growth, prosperity, fiscal strength, and safety of all residents.
Victoria Valencia: Gilroy Chamber Hires New CEO
Victoria Valencia has been named the new CEO of the Gilroy Chamber of Commerce. A South County native, Victoria joined the Gilroy Chamber of Commerce staff in January 2019 as the community relations coordinator, managing marketing and events, and building relations with community partners.
Prior to working with the chamber, Victoria was the events coordinator at the Gilroy Lodge on the Hill. She also worked at the Mt. Madonna YMCA as a member services coordinator, and interned with Pebble Beach on their Special Events Management Team.
Victoria graduated from San Jose State University in 2016 with her degree in Hospitality, Tourism, and event Management. She is currently a member of the Western Association of Chamber Executive’s Emerging Leaders Council. She is also a board member for Leadership Gilroy and One Giving Tree, and was a founding board member for Gilroy After Hours Rotary.
Victoria and husband Eddie are new parents to baby Roslyn—the youngest One Giving Tree volunteer and future Chamber ambassador, born October 10, 2022. We look forward to supporting Victoria in her new role as President / CEO of the Gilroy Chamber of Commerce!
Frank Johnson: Visit Gilroy Selects New Executive Director
There is no doubt that when Jane Howard announced her retirement as Executive Director of the Visit Gilroy California Welcome Center in June of 2021, many who have had personal or professional interactions with her over the years, panicked. Her announcement came at a time when other key leaders in Gilroy decided to move on. Talk of “a leadership void” in the community began to surface. The thought of losing Jane—who’s dedication and positive impact to Gilroy through tireless advocacy, graceful ambassadorship, and keen vision were simply at the highest level—was like a family break up where it wasn’t “them,” it was us. Who could fill the void? Who could bring the same dedication, positivity, and spirit of collaboration that Jane led with for 17 years? Did that person even exist?
Enter Frank Johnson.
In the short time that we have known Frank. we have been impressed. From the start, his openness, passion, and perspectives on what Gilroy has to offer puts you at ease. Speaking with Frank, you can’t help but feel confident that after a long and drawn-out search process, Visit Gilroy has found the perfect person to lead the organization into the future.
Frank hails from Long Beach, CA. He brings over 15 years of tourism experience to his new role and more than 20 years of project management, marketing, sales, creative direction, educational programming, digital media, and customer service. That experience includes roles as the Executive Director at the Museum of the Sierra in Shaver Lake, CA, which he helped revitalize after a major wildfire and pandemic shutdowns. There, he helped secure a 1MM dollar endowment for the museum, and introduced several new exhibits and events while building relationships with key donors and community partners. Frank was the program and outreach manager at Friends of the Hunley, a world-renowned museum and laboratory in Charleston, South Carolina, featuring the Civil War-era combat submarine H.L. Hunley. He worked at the Charleston Visitors and Convention Bureau, Cruz Bay Watersports in the U.S. Virgin Islands, and in various roles for digital media and marketing companies in California and Florida. He holds a B.A. in Mass Communication and Journalism from California State University, Fresno, and is a veteran of the United States Air Force.
“I’m passionate about all that Gilroy has to offer—our wonderful foods and wines, our close proximity to hiking, coastal destinations, and other attractions. I look forward to elevating Gilroy as a destination for visitors while forging meaningful and long-lasting business relationships within the community.” Frank stated. His outside perspective is breath of fresh air, and gives him a platform to take Visit Gilroy to the next level.
“Gilroy’s diverse cultures offer a great opportunity to help elevate Gilroy as a true destination location. We can build a stronger community for all by working together and supporting the diversity, small businesses, organizations, and the community at large.”
Frank’s commitment to supporting local businesses includes his “Eat Downtown twice per week” initiative that he takes very seriously. “It can have an immediate impact, save local businesses and jobs.”
Visit Gilroy Board of Directors Chair Kurt Michielssen stated, “Frank brings a wealth of tourism experience and innovative ideas that we know will be a benefit to our organization. We are very glad to have him on board.”
We can’t agree more. Frank is always open to connecting to anyone interested in learning more about Visit Gilroy and his vision for the future. You can find him at the California Welcome Center located at the Outlets, or find him eating lunch in Downtown Gilroy twice per week, every week. That’s commitment, and that’s Frank Johnson. We are excited to see where he takes us!
Gilroy Chamber of Commerce Selects New Board members
On January 1, 2023, the Gilroy Chamber of Commerce welcomed three new Board members. Andrea Nicolette, Executive Director for the Mt. Madonna YMCA; Gloria Dela Merced, Chief Operating Officer for St. Louise Regional Hospital; and Sandy Le, Director, Revenue and Group Sales for Gilroy Gardens, begin their tenure as Chamber Board members. Each bring unique skills, experience, and talents to the organization. They join an already talented and proactive Board made up of local professionals and business owners all committed to supporting local businesses. For more information, visit: www.gilroy.org
Dr. Pedro Avila Named President / Superintendent, Gavilan Joint Community District
In July of 2022 Dr. Pedro Avila became Gavilan’s 8th President. Dr. Avila was previously the VP of Student Services at Santa Rosa Junior College, and has worked in the community college system for 20 years.
Avila was born in Guadalajara, Mexico. His family emigrated to the US in 1984. From humble beginnings, he went on to earn degrees in Latino Studies and Business from Fresno State University, a Masters in Business Administration from Rockhurst University, and a Certificate in Institutional Performance Assessment from Harvard’s Higher Education Institute. He earned his Doctorate in Community College Policy from the University of Maryland.
During his 20 year tenure, Avila has served in numerous administrative roles. His early childhood experiences with poverty and housing insecurity help shape his perspectives on affordable student housing, which he championed at Santa Rosa Junior College. He and his wife Jeanette Loaiza have two daughters.
Gilroy Downtown Business Association Names New Board members and officers
The Gilroy Downtown Business Association (GDBA) names new board member and officers. Certified Financial Planner Jeff Orth of Integrated Financial was named 2023 Board Chair. Medicare Specialist Michele Campbell of Michele Campbell Insurance Services is the 2023 Vice-Chair. New Board members are, Paulo Paredes, Danny Mitchell, Deanna Franklin, and Mike Sanchez.
Paulo Paredes is in law enforcement and security. He and his wife Denise opened Celestial Trading in Downtown Gilroy in June of 2021. Paulo brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to the Board in the areas of security, web design, and business.
Danny Mitchell is a retired CFO at Heinzen Manufacturing. He is a 63-year Gilroy resident and has been a community volunteer for decades. His past board experience includes the Gilroy Chamber of Commerce, Gilroy Elks Lodge, and the Gilroy Economic Development Corporation. He served on the Gilroy General Plan Advisory Committee for 2040, and has served in various functions at South Valley Community Church. Danny’s financial knowledge and experience will serve the organization well.
Deanna Franklin is Senior VP and Relationship Manager at Pinnacle Bank in Gilroy. A Gilroy resident for over 20 years, Deanna has served in various volunteer capacities including Gilroy Relay for Life, Gilroy Garlic Festival Board member and past president, past president of Gilroy Rotary, Gilroy Exchange Club, to name a few. She brings proactive energy, new perspectives, and organizational skills, as well as many other abilities, to the Board.
Mike Sanchez, Publisher of gmhTODAY magazine, is a life-long Gilroy resident. He and wife Debbi are the owners Effect Media Group, and he is a licensed insurance agent at Insurology Insurance Agency. He hopes to offer support in marketing and branding, long-term strategic planning, and event management to the organization.
Morgan Hill Recognizes Mayor Rich Constantine and Councilmember John McKay for Service
Outgoing Mayor Rich Constantine and outgoing councilmember John McKay were recognized for their service to the community at the December 14, 2022 Mayor & City Council Inauguration. Sitting and newly elected councilmembers thanked both men for their collaboration and leadership. City Administrator Christina Turner praised both for their friendship, trust, and partnership. She thanked them for being teammates during the difficult times of wildfires, the economic shutdown during COVID-19, among other challenges. She praised them for their hearts for service to city staff and the community. Common themes for all who spoke were the dedication the two had for the City of Morgan Hill, and their efforts to help make Morgan Hill the best it can be for all residents. New Mayor Mark Turner thanked Constantine for his help and availability during the transition process. McKay stated he felt very good knowing that Marilyn Librers was going to be filling his vacated seat on the dias.
Constantine and McKay will no doubt continue to be involved in local initiatives. We certainly look forward to their continued impact and wish them well!
Marquez, Bracco, Martinez-Beltran retain seats
Gilroy voters re-elected Dione Bracco and elected Carol Marquez, who was an appointed incumbent councilmember, to new terms. Marquez was the second highest vote-getter, with 7,528 registered votes, trailing Tom Cline ‘s 7,776 registered votes. Bracco was the third highest vote-getter with 6,664 registered votes.
Marquez is a retired educator. She was elected to a two-year term in 2018 to fill a vacancy, then was appointed to fill Marie Blankley’s seat when she became Mayor. Bracco has served a total of four full terms on the council: 2005, 2010, 2014, 2018. He now begins his fifth term. He is a life-long Gilroy resident and owner of Bracco’s Towing.
Morgan Hill District B voters re-elected Yvonne Martinez-Beltran to another four-year term. Beltran has lived in Morgan Hill since childhood and attended local schools. She and husband Roberto has three daughters.
The focus of her campaign was advocating for a Monterey Cooridor Specific Plan, economic development, water and infrastructure improvements. She also cites public safety as a top priority. She was sworn in at the inauguration by newly elected Santa Clara County Supervisor Sylvia Arenas with her family by her side.
Peter Leroe-Munoz: Gilroy Councilmember Moves On After 12 Years
Three-term City councilmember Peter Leroe-Muniz gave his parting comments to the dias and to a packed chamber at the December 12, swearing in ceremony. He was presented with a plaque for his 12 years of service by Mayor Marie Blankley, who thanked him for his service and commitment to the City.
Leroe-Muniz stated that he always considered his time on City Council as “temporary” and one that he would one day return to someone else. He thanked city staff, the community, and his family for their support during his tenure. At the conclusion of his comments and plaque presentation, attendees gave him a standing ovation. We thank Peter for his service and wish him well in the future!
