Getting your
Trinity Audioplayer ready...#### Emergency perspective Over 65 city councilmembers, mayors, city managers and regional public safety leaders gathered at Saratoga Prospect Center on June 11 to discuss leadership practices during emergencies.
“That preparation isn’t just about understanding emergency plans; it’s about ensuring local leaders are ready to lead when communities need them most,” said Tina Walia, president of the Santa Clara County Cities Association.
As president, Walia brings local leaders together to focus on shared issues. In an emailed statement, Walia said the cities association board has been focusing on emergency operations and response systems. As fire season approaches, she said she wanted to focus on the human sided of leadership: how elected officials communicate, build trust and support their communities during uncertainty.
“While planning this event, I kept coming back to one question: What would I want from my local leaders if I woke up at 1:41 in the morning after a major earthquake?” Walia said.
She added that the biggest challenge of planning the event was coordinating busy schedules and bringing together a panel that reflected the county’s emergency leadership. The panel consisted of Los Gatos Town Manager Chris Constantin, Santa Clara County Fire Chief Suwanna Kerdkaew, Santa Clara County Undersheriff Mike Doty and San Jose Emergency Management Director Ray Riordan.
The event was met with “overwhelmingly positive” feedback, Walia said. Many attendees told her that it was powerful to hear experienced leaders talk candidly about about their fears in an emergency situation. One councilmember said it was good to know when city officials should step back during emergencies.
Walia said she would like to organize more events that allow leaders to share more personal stories and conversations.
“That reinforced something important: Leadership is most visible when there are no easy answers and communities are looking for guidance,” Walia said.
Election orientation
Prospective candidates for the Saratoga City Council are invited to 2026 Election Orientation on June 22 at Saratoga City Hall.
The orientation will provide an overview of the election process, including candidate eligibility requirements, nomination papers, filing deadlines and other information for those considering running for office.
Mayor Chuck Page and Councilmembers Belal Aftab and Yan Zhao’s seats are up for election this November.
The session is scheduled for 6-7:30 p.m. in the Linda Callon Conference Room. For more information, visit www.saratoga.ca.us/election.