Investigating Campaign Activity in Gilroy: A Commitment to Transparency

As a candidate for Gilroy City Council and a concerned voter, I’ve taken it upon myself to investigate recent campaign mailers that have been circulating in our community. My commitment to transparency and accountability drives me to ensure that the people of Gilroy have the facts they need before making their decisions at the polls.

On October 5th, I received a full-page color mailer targeting incumbent Mayor Marie Blankley. The mailer contained misquoted statistics and other suspicious information that didn’t sit right with me. Like everyone else, I want to know who’s trying to influence our local elections. I began researching to find out who was behind this mailer for my own personal knowledge.

Just three days later, on October 8th, I received four more full-page mailers. This time three were supporting the incumbent city council candidates. The fourth mailer attacking Mayor Blankley. All from the same group that sent the mailer on October 5th. It was clear to me that these were part of a coordinated effort and I felt it was important to dig deeper.

I’ve made my findings public because I believe it’s crucial for everyone in our community to have access to the facts.

1. Entity Lookup: "California Friends and Family, LP"

I began by examining the first mailer sent out to Gilroy residents. The mailers list an entity called "CALIFORNIA FRIENDS AND FAMILY, LP," which I found to be registered in Delaware. On October 8, before the second wave of mailers came out, I contacted the State of Delaware and requested a copy of the limited partnership records. I expect to receive this within 10 business days and will share those findings as soon as they arrive.

2. Return Address Investigation

Next, I reverse-searched the return address listed on the mailers. The address is linked to Nielsen Merksamer Parrinello Gross & Leoni, LLP, a law firm specializing in government law (https://www.nmgovlaw.com/contact-us/offices/). This discovery helped connect the mailers to a specific legal entity and provided further clarity on the mailing source.

3. FPPC Lookup: “Building Tomorrow”

I continued my investigation by searching for “Building Tomorrow” on the California Fair Political Practices Commission (FPPC) lookup site, Cal-Access. Here’s what I found:

• The organization’s full name is "BUILDING TOMORROW, SPONSORED BY CALIFORNIA FRIENDS AND FAMILY." However, previous records indicate it was historically known as "BUILDING TOMORROW, SPONSORED BY TEN SOUTH MANAGEMENT INC." This shift in sponsorship raises important questions about the connections between these entities.

• The amendment lists William McGuinn, the General Counsel for TenSouth, as a principal officer. McGuinn's involvement as General Counsel is also referenced in this Gilroy Dispatch article, which details the ongoing lawsuit involving Gandolfi Investments: Developer claims builder’s remedy victory for 501-unit project. The email used for filing these documents is “FORM410@NMGOVLAW.COM,” linking the filings directly to Nielsen Merksamer.

4. Additional Connections: Gandolfi Investments

To gain further insight, I explored Gandolfi Investments, a subsidiary of builder TenSouth. Gandolfi Investments is currently suing the city of Gilroy under the builder’s remedy law. Following a closed session discussion on July 29, the City Council voted 4-3 to fight the lawsuit. Notably, Council Members Rebeca Armendariz, Zach Hilton, and Fred Tovar voted in dissent. You can read more about this lawsuit in the Gilroy Dispatch article here.

Verify the Information Yourself

Transparency is key. If you want to verify the information I’ve shared, you can check the FPPC Form 460 covering the period from 01/01/2024 through 09/21/2024. You’ll find the following details:

• Total Contributions Received: From CALIFORNIA FRIENDS AND FAMILY LP, DOVER, DE 19904: $200,000.00
• Total Expenditures Made: $45,151.50 for ($33,750.00 for Media Advertisements)

See for yourself here: FPPC Filing. Click on "Electronic Filings" to view the details.

My Ongoing Commitment

I know that taking this approach might put me at risk of becoming the next target for criticism. However, my priority is ensuring that voters, like myself, have access to accurate, unbiased information. This commitment to transparency and fairness is what I do in my personal life, my work, and on the planning commission—and it’s exactly what I will continue to do if elected. I am committed to keeping our election process local, fair, and transparent.

Thank you for your support and for standing with me as we work together to uphold the integrity of our community.

Statement: Please note that I have not sent, and I have no plans to send, any mailers for my campaign. My focus is on direct, transparent communication through digital platforms and community engagement.

Stefanie Elle, Ms. Maple’s mom, joined the Gilroy Election Forum—watch it now on Facebook!

🐾 Hey friends, it’s Ms. Maple, your paws-on-the-ground campaign pup! 🐾

Mom was at the Gilroy Election Forum hosted by the amazing American Association of University Women (AAUW) and the Gilroy Library on September 28th! 📚✨ Even though dogs can’t read (trust me, I’ve tried 🐶), I know our library is a great place for learning. Mom was one of the three challengers and 3 incumbents, all vying for the 3 City Council seats up for grabs! 🏛️🔥

Catch all the action and watch the forum from the comfort of your dog bed or couch right on Facebook! 🛋️🐾 Check it out here! Let’s make sure our voices (and barks) shape Gilroy’s future! 🌟

#MapleMonday #EpicenterOfChange #GilroyLibrary #GilroyLibraryEvents #GilroyAAUW #GilroyCityCouncil #GilroyMayor #GilroyElections #ShakeThingsUp

🚨 Stop the Developer Giveaway: Glen Loma Affects All of Gilroy! 🚨

EDIT:

Thank you all for your engagement and feedback. I want to provide some clarity and focus on this situation. The Glen Loma development has a long and complicated history. The City Administrator, Jimmy Forbis, is ultimately responsible for overseeing this project and reporting its progress to the City Council. Unfortunately, we are now in a difficult position.

The City Council and Mayor Marie Blankley are doing their best to negotiate the most favorable outcome possible for Gilroy residents, given the constraints they face. The contract with the developer is nearing its end and the options are limited. While these changes are not the ideal outcome we had all hoped for, the council is working to secure the best deal under these circumstances.

I am actively seeking an answer regarding the new traffic flows that will result from the removal of the Town Center. If we receive a clear response on this, I’ll be satisfied that the city is taking steps to address these concerns. I'll be reaching out to the Mayor and asking her to address this during the meeting tonight.

I agree with everyone’s passion and concern for the well-being of our city. It’s important that we come together to support our elected officials in their efforts to make the most of the situation and advocate for Gilroy’s long-term interests.

==========================================================================================

Gilroy residents, it's time we demand accountability from both our city administrator and developers. The Glen Loma Ranch development, which promised to include essential amenities like a 🚒 fire station and a 🏙️ Town Center with shops and housing, is now cutting corners—at the expense of our entire community.

Despite the clear need for these amenities, the upcoming City Council agenda includes an agreement that would allow the developer to move forward with the final map for the Canyon Creek, Rocky Knoll, and Malvasia II neighborhoods. This agreement would permit the removal of the Glen Loma Town Center and replace it entirely with housing, eliminating the promised amenities. 🏡

This is not just about one neighborhood—this affects all of Gilroy. By removing the Town Center, the developer is pushing all of the new traffic 🚗🚦 onto our existing major roads, making shopping at grocers like those on 1st Street, the market on 10th, or Walmart on Camino Arroyo a nightmare for everyone. A proper traffic study is essential to understand new traffic flow and traffic impacts—anything less is an injustice to all Gilroy residents. ❌

⚠️ Critical Mitigation Measures Eliminated:

The following vital measures that protect Gilroy’s infrastructure and residents are being ignored or altered:

• Mitigation Measure 36: No traffic management plan for the Miller Avenue street section.
• Mitigation Measure 37: Ignoring the need for added left-turn lanes at Santa Teresa Boulevard/First Street.
• Mitigation Measure 39: Disregarding improvements at the Uvas Park Drive/Miller Avenue intersection, which would have significantly improved traffic during peak hours.
• Mitigation Measure 41: The widening of the Luchessa Avenue Bridge is being swept under the rug, despite its importance for managing traffic flow.
• Mitigation Measure 43: Skipping turn lane improvements at Monterey Street/Luchessa Avenue.
• Mitigation Measure 44: No through lanes on First Street and Santa Teresa Boulevard.

Removing these obligations affects every single resident in Gilroy. It’s not just about local traffic—it’s about the overall congestion and the ripple effects it will create across the city. 🌆

❓ What Else Is Being Removed?

Now, they claim that the construction of a Zone 2 water tank, as per TM 13-08, Condition of Approval No. 80, is no longer necessary. Why? The Reservoir Canyon Creek Bridge is also being conveniently left out of discussions, even though it’s crucial for handling traffic and for emergency response 🚑 in the area. This negligence impacts all of us.

What else is being quietly removed or overlooked to favor the developer? This is a citywide issue, and we deserve transparency and accountability! 📢

📣 Call to Action:

Gilroy City Council is voting on this issue tomorrow, October 7th. This isn't just a neighborhood issue; it's a citywide concern. We need residents to show up, speak, or write to the City Council to demand that they DO NOT approve this deal without conducting a comprehensive traffic study. The residents of Gilroy deserve better than shortcuts and broken promises. It’s time to stand up for what’s right and demand that developers fulfill their commitments to our entire community! 💪

🗓️ City Council Regular Meeting
🕕 Oct 07, 2024 06:00 PM
Agenda and meeting page: View Here
Direct link to the meeting packet: View Packet

Gilroy Development Plan page for Glen Loma Ranch: Visit Here

#EpicenterOfChange #ShakeThingsUp #StandUpForGilroy #AccountabilityNow #GilroyDeservesBetter #TransparentGilroy

🐾 Ms. Maple Monday Update: 3-3-3! 🐾

Hey, friends! 🐕 It’s your favorite German Shepherd, Ms. Maple, here to give you a heads-up on what’s happening this week! 🐾 My mom, Stefanie Elle, has been out and about meeting folks (I’ll be joining her at some—so come give me a scratch behind the ears! 🐶) and getting ready for the big candidate forum this Saturday at 2 pm at the library! 📚Check out her events page for more information https://www.stefanie4council.com/events

Now here’s something you should remember:
🐾 There are 3 seats available on City Council.
🐾 You get 3 votes.
🐾 And my mom is #3 on the ballot!

Easy, right? 3-3-3! Just think of it as three chances to shake things up! 🌪️💡

While you’re voting for my mom, don’t forget about her fellow challengers: Terence Fugazzi (#1 on the ballot) and Kelly Ramirez (#6 on the ballot). They’re ready to make some big changes, too, and my mom supports them both. 🙌

You know I’ll be wagging my tail in support of Mom and her vision to make our town the best place for ALL of us. 🐾💖 But whether you’re a pup or a person, let’s make sure we’re all ready to vote for change! 🌟

Catch you soon, friends, and see you on Saturday! 🐾

#EpicenterOfChange #ShakeThingsUp #MapleMondays #VoteForStefanie #JoinThePack #Stefanie4CityCouncil

Breaking News: "A Call for Independence and Collaboration" – The Epicenter of Change in Gilroy! ​

 

Exciting News! I’m thrilled to announce that my latest op-ed, "A Call for Independence and Collaboration," has been published in this week’s Gilroy Dispatch! 🎉

 

In it, I share my vision for a more inclusive and balanced leadership on the City Council—one that listens, learns, and works together to find common-sense solutions for Gilroy’s future. It’s about putting people over politics and taking action to make real change.

 

If you’re ready for fresh ideas and a commitment to what’s right for our community, check it out here.

 

Let’s continue to shake things up and make Gilroy the epicenter of change! 💪

 

#EpicenterOfChange #ShakeThingsUp #IndependenceAndCollaboration #Gilroy #CommunityFirst #LocalLeadership #GilroyDispatch #Stefanie4Council #gilroycitycouncil #Vote2024 #GilroyElections #gilroygardens #gilroyca #gilroycalifornia #maplemondays

 

Stefanie Elle for City Council 2024

FPPC# 1468396

🌿 Maple’s Grassroots Journey: Running Together for Gilroy 🐾

Hey everyone! Maple here, running on my favorite grassy spot and feeling energized! 🐕🌟

I’m out here because my mom, Stefanie Elle, is racing forward with grassroots support from all of you. Your voices and enthusiasm are powering this campaign! Running independently and free allows us to center Gilroyans in local control and drive positive change for our community.

Mom needs your help to keep the momentum going!

👉 Make Endorsement - https://www.stefanie4council.com/make-endorsement
👉 Make Contribution - https://www.stefanie4council.com/contribute
👉 View Endorsements - https://www.stefanie4council.com/view-endorsements

Let’s keep running towards positive change. Spread the word, get involved, and let’s make a difference for Gilroy! Thank you for all your support! 🐕💚

#MapleMonday #GrassrootsJourney #RunningTogether #GilroyStrong #JoinThePack #Stefanie4Council #gilroycitycouncil #Vote2024 #GilroyElections #gilroy #gilroygardens #gilroyca #gilroycalifornia #maplemondays #shakethingsup

Stefanie Elle for City Council 2024
FPPC# 1468396

Un-Endorsed? More like UN-STOPPABLE!

We’re shaking things up and it’s only the beginning! After receiving an endorsement from the South County Democratic Club on August 24th, I was notified September 1st that they had reversed their decision with an ‘un-endorsement.’ When I found out the endorsement was reversed, I didn’t see it as a win or a loss, but as a reaffirmation of my commitment to transparency and honesty. I'll always choose what benefits Gilroy over blindly following any ideology.

This decision means I’m now running a campaign that’s truly independent, focused entirely on you—the people of Gilroy. We’re at the epicenter of change, ready to break the mold and work across the aisle, with no strings attached! 🎯

Let's celebrate this moment as the start of something big! We’re pushing for better public transportation, affordable housing, and a stronger local economy. This is just the beginning of our journey together!

⚡Let’s go, Gilroy! ⚡

Stefanie

#epicenterofchange #shakethingsup #Stefanie4Council #gilroycitycouncil #Vote2024 #GilroyElections #gilroy #gilroygardens #gilroyca #gilroycalifornia #maplemondays

Stefanie Elle for City Council 2024
FPPC# 1468396

Breaking News: Shaking Up Public Transit Equity in the Gilroy Dispatch!

I'm thrilled to announce that my article "Improve public transit fairly and equitably" was published in the Gilroy Dispatch on August 29th. In true epicenter of change style, I dive into how this plan unfairly targets those who can least afford it and why we need to stand up against it.

Curious to see how we're shaking things up? Read the full article here.

Let’s keep pushing for change that works for everyone!

South County Democratic Club Endorsement!

I am incredibly honored to announce that on August 24th I received the endorsement of the South County Democratic Club for my candidacy for Gilroy City Council! 🙌

Thank you to the members of the South County Democratic Club for this endorsement. This is a non-partisan race and I am grateful for the support of individuals from all political backgrounds who share the same goals for our community. Together, we can be the epicenter of change, working hand in hand to build a more vibrant and dynamic Gilroy. Your support shows that when we unite around common values, we can create meaningful and lasting progress for everyone.

Thank you once again to the South County Democratic Club for this incredible endorsement, and to all of you for your continued support. Let's keep shaking things up in Gilroy! 💪

#endorsement #Stefanie4Council #gilroycitycouncil #Vote2024 #GilroyElections #gilroy #gilroygardens #gilroyca #gilroycalifornia #shakethingsup #epicenterforchange

Stefanie Elle for City Council 2024
FPPC# 1468396

Yard Signs are HERE! Banners are GOING UP!

My mom, Stefanie, has been out and about putting up campaign signs and leaving leaflets all around town! Have you spotted any? Maybe you've seen a yard sign with a QR code? 📋

If you see one, be sure to stop, read, and scan! It’s a great way to learn more about Stefanie’s pawsome plans and see how you can join the team that’s shaking things up. 🐕 You can even find out how to get your own lawn sign or make a donation to help support her campaign for change!

Let’s all be a part of the pack that’s making a difference!

Do you want one for yourself? Reach out at
https://www.stefanie4council.com/contact

Stefanie Elle for City Council 2024
FPPC# 1468396

#Accountability #Gilroy #SB94 #StayInformed #MapleMondays #ShakeThingsUp #JoinThePack #VoteForStefanieElle #GilroyCityCouncil #Stefanie4Council #Vote2024 #GilroyElections #gilroy #gilroygardens #gilroyca #gilroycalifornia

https://www.stefanie4council.com/contact
Stefanie Elle for City Council 2024
FPPC# 1468396

I Oppose SB94

SB94 just passed State Senate and is on its way to the Assembly to be voted on before Labor Day, and it could mean big changes for those convicted of serious crimes. It's important to understand how this could impact our community.

I urge all of Gilroy citizens to contact Assemblyman Robert Rivas, who represents the Gilroy area, to vote No on SB 94.

🎯 https://www.kcra.com/article/california-bill-early-release-felons-serving-life-resurrected/61858649
🎯 https://speaker.asmdc.org/contact-me
🎯 www.stefanie4council.com/issues

I would like to quote the post by Cheryl Parks for those who are not on Nextdoor or in the post's "neighborhood". If you are on Nextdoor, you can read her full post here: https://nextdoor.com/p/5CmYYjrpTtY7?utm_source=share&extras=MjQyOTk4OQ%3D%3D&utm_campaign=1724098204660

The following is from Cheryl Parks' post:

“SB94 authored by Senator Dave Cortese (D-Santa Clara) initially stated that those "individuals convicted of murder, even with special circumstances up to and including multiple victims, or killed in concert with rape, robbery kidnapping or torture and who received a Death Sentence or Life without the Possibly of Parole prior to June 5th, 1990 - be given the opportunity to be provided with a public defender to petition the courts for re-sentencing, which would then allow them to have their sentences invalidated and make them eligible for parole." It was shelved last year but recently reenacted and passed on the California State Senate floor. Although Cortese later amended it by dropping the opportunity for Death Row inmates, it is important to note that SCC District Attorney Jeff Rosen is currently working hard to resentence individuals on Death Row to Life Without Parole, which means they too would be eligible as long as they didn't kill a police officer or murder more than two people.”

Thank you Cheryl for your dedication!

#ShakeThingsUp #VoteForStefanieElle #GilroyCityCouncil #Stefanie4Council #Vote2024

Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority (VTA) is Pop-Up events in Gilroy

🚨 The Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority (VTA) is hosting several pop-up events in Gilroy, but we can’t let these be just another checkbox for community engagement. 🚨

🔍 While the focus is on accessing the station, it’s important to know that VTA plays a major role in the broader Plan Bay Area 2050, which includes controversial proposals like pay-to-drive.

📢 This is our chance to demand transparency, ensure Gilroy isn’t left behind in public transportation services, and have our voices heard on issues that will impact our community for decades. Let’s show up and make a difference!

💬 These events are crucial for making sure our voices are heard. Don’t miss out – attend and make your concerns known to the VTA.

📅 Important! If you can't attend, please fill out the online survey at vta.org/gilroy.survey

✍️ VTA Gilroy TOD Access Study
📈 Fill out the survey to help us improve access

📅 Event Dates & Locations:

Thursday, August 15: 5 pm - 9 pm @ Downtown Live 🎯 (I'll be attending this one!!) 🎯
Thursday, August 22: 10 am - 1 pm @ Gilroy Library; 4 pm - 7 pm @ Gilroy Transit Center
Tuesday, August 27: 6 am - 9 am @ Gilroy Transit Center; 4 pm - 7 pm @

You can see all their events here: https://www.vta.org/about/community-outreach-and-public-engagement

#santaclaravalleytransitauthority #PlanBayArea2050 #accountability #transparancy #Stefanie4Council #gilroycitycouncil #Vote2024 #GilroyElections #gilroy #gilroygardens #gilroyca #gilroycalifornia #maplemondays #shakethingsup

Stefanie Elle for City Council 2024
FPPC# 1468396

Stefanie Elle is Officially in the Race!

I'm thrilled to announce that as of August 1, 2024, I am officially a candidate for the November 5th City Council election! After filing on July 31st, I have received confirmation and I am ready to serve our community. Ms. Maple and I are excited to embark on this journey with you!

📢 I'm also excited to launch my new campaign website! Check it out to learn more about my platform, view endorsements, and stay updated on the latest news: www.stefanie4council.com

Stay connected and join me us this journey:
📱 Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stefanieelle4gilroy/
👍 Like my page on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/stefanie.elle.for.gilroy
👥 Join my Nextdoor group: https://nextdoor.com/g/5f77x76hz/

Together, we can make a difference!

#Stefanie4Council #gilroycitycouncil #Vote2024 #GilroyElections #gilroy #gilroygardens #gilroyca #gilroycalifornia #maplemondays #shakethingsup

Stefanie Elle for City Council 2024
FPPC# 1468396

🐾 Welcome to Maple Mondays! 🐾

Hey there, Gilroy! I'm Maple, the cutest campaign pup in town, and I'm here to help my mom, Stefanie Elle, shake things up in the City Council race. Every Monday, I'll be sharing my mom's pawsome plans for making our community a better place on her Instagram or Facebook!

Why Maple Mondays? Because who better to talk about important issues than a loyal German Shepherd who knows her mom's heart? Together, we'll dive into the topics that matter most, from tasty tidbits about community improvements to snack-sized solutions for everyday problems.

So, sit, stay, and enjoy a weekly dose of cuteness mixed with a dash of sass. Let's make Mondays something to wag about!

🐾 Stay tuned and let’s bark up the right tree for Gilroy! 🐾

#MapleMondays #ShakeThingsUp #VoteForStefanieElle #GilroyCityCouncil #JoinThePack

#MapleMondays #ShakeThingsUp #VoteForStefanieElle #GilroyCityCouncil #Stefanie4Council #Vote2024 #GilroyElections #gilroy #gilroygardens #gilroyca #gilroycalifornia

https://www.stefanie4council.com/
Stefanie Elle for City Council 2024
FPPC# 1468396

Epicenter of Change: Stefanie’s Commitment to Gilroy - Now Online! 🌟

We’re excited to unveil Stefanie’s brand-new website! This is your go-to hub for everything related to her campaign and how you can get involved.

🔍 Discover: Learn more about how Stefanie is dedicated to serving our community.

📅 Get Involved: Host a meet and greet, volunteer, or request a yard sign to show your support!

💬 Engage: Add your endorsement and sign up for email updates to stay informed.

💰 Support: Make a donation to contribute to our mission for positive change.

🗳️ Vote Smart: Find all the essential voting info—from registration to key deadlines.

Check out the new site now and join us in making a difference for Gilroy! Together, we can drive meaningful change. 🌟🔗

#Stefanie4Council #gilroycitycouncil #Vote2024 #GilroyElections #gilroy #gilroygardens #gilroyca #gilroycalifornia

https://www.stefanie4council.com/
Stefanie Elle for City Council 2024
FPPC# 1468396