Desis On The Ballot: Satish Chandra, Santa Clara City Council, District 1

Indian diaspora needs to engage more to be heard

An avid proponent of public safety, Satish Chandra is running for the first time as a candidate for Santa Clara City Council, District 1. “Ensuring the safety and security of our residents is paramount,” says Chandra, who also currently serves on the Chief Advisory Committee Board of the Santa Clara Police Department. Born in Telangana, India, Chandra came to the U.S. in 2000, and has been a resident of Santa Clara for over a decade. He wants to bring to governance his 25 years of IT industry expertise, with a focus on data-driven decision-making. In an email interview with India Currents , Chandra says the Indian diaspora is underrepresented in U.S. politics and it needs to actively participate in the democratic process. “This is our opportunity to express our gratitude to this great nation,” he says.

On your decision to run for office

As members of the Indian diaspora, we are often underrepresented in U.S. politics. It is high time for all of us to get involved and actively participate in our communities. This is our opportunity to express our gratitude to this great nation.

I wholeheartedly believe in John F. Kennedy’s words: “Ask not what your country can do for you—ask what you can do for your country.” This sentiment resonates deeply with my commitment to giving back to the community.

In my culture, we have a saying: “Manava Seva ee Madhava Seva,” which means serving humankind is equivalent to serving God. This principle drives my passion for community engagement and public service. Serving our Mother India (Janma bhoomi) while contributing to the land we call home (Karma bhoomi) instills in us a profound sense of responsibility. We have a unique perspective and valuable experiences that can enrich the political landscape and strengthen our communities.

Now is the time for us to step forward, engage in the political process, and ensure our voices are heard. Together, we can make a meaningful impact and pave the way for future generations, demonstrating our unwavering commitment to both our heritage and our new home.

Your primary role as a councilmember

As a councilmember, my primary role would be to serve as a dedicated advocate for the residents of Santa Clara, ensuring their voices are heard and their needs are met. Here are some key aspects of that role:

1. Community Engagement : I would prioritize open communication with constituents, actively seeking their input on issues that affect our community and keeping them informed about council decisions.
2. Advocacy for Public Safety : Ensuring the safety and well-being of our residents is crucial. I would work closely with law enforcement and community organizations to develop effective safety initiatives.
3. Fiscal Responsibility : I would strive to manage city resources wisely, focusing on transparency and accountability in budgeting to ensure taxpayer dollars are spent effectively.
4. Support for Local Development : I would advocate for sustainable development that enhances our community while preserving our city’s character and resources.
5. Promoting Inclusivity : It’s essential to create an inclusive environment where all voices are valued. I would work to ensure that diverse perspectives are represented in decision-making processes.
6. Collaboration and Partnerships : I believe in the power of collaboration—working with local organizations, businesses, and residents to develop solutions that benefit everyone in our community.

Your first order of business on Day 1

On Day 1, my first order of business would be to establish open lines of communication with the community and fellow councilmembers. Here’s how I would approach it:

1. Community Listening Session : I would organize an informal listening session to hear directly from residents about their concerns, priorities, and ideas. This would help me understand the immediate issues facing our community and set the tone for collaborative governance.
2. Meeting with City Staff : I would meet with key city staff to review ongoing projects and initiatives, ensuring I’m up to speed on current issues and can effectively support our team from the start.
3. Setting Priorities : Based on the feedback from the community and the insights from city staff, I would begin to outline a set of priorities for my term that reflect the needs and aspirations of District 1.
4. Reviewing Public Safety Initiatives : Given my commitment to public safety, I would prioritize a review of existing public safety programs and initiatives, identifying areas for improvement and collaboration with local law enforcement.

Your top 3 priorities as councilmember

As a councilmember, my top three priorities would be:

1. Public Safety and Community Well-Being : Ensuring the safety and security of our residents is paramount. I would work to strengthen partnerships between the police department and community organizations, promote crime prevention programs, and enhance mental health resources to create a safe and supportive environment for everyone.
2. Affordable Housing and Sustainable Development : Addressing the housing crisis is critical. I would advocate for affordable housing initiatives and responsible development that meets the needs of our growing population while preserving the character of our neighborhoods. This includes promoting smart growth strategies that balance residential, commercial, and green spaces.
3. Community Engagement and Transparency : I believe in the importance of open communication and inclusivity in local governance. I would prioritize creating more opportunities for residents to engage with the council, ensuring their voices are heard in decision-making processes. This includes regular town hall meetings, surveys, and online platforms for feedback.

Challenges Santa Clara City faces and how you will help mitigate them

Santa Clara faces several key challenges, and I believe proactive and collaborative approaches can help mitigate them:

1. Affordable Housing :
   • Challenge : Rising housing costs are making it difficult for many residents to find affordable options.
   • Solution : I would advocate for the development of mixed-income housing projects and work with developers to prioritize affordable units in new developments. Additionally, I would support policies that incentivize the conversion of underutilized properties into affordable housing.
2. Public Safety :
   • Challenge : Ensuring the safety and well-being of residents amidst rising crime rates and community concerns.
   • Solution : I would promote community policing initiatives and increase funding for crime prevention programs. Collaborating with local organizations to provide resources and support for mental health and substance abuse would also be a priority to address underlying issues.
3. Traffic Congestion and Infrastructure :
   • Challenge : Increasing population and development have led to traffic congestion and strain on our infrastructure.
   • Solution : I would advocate for improved public transportation options and promote alternative modes of transportation, such as biking and walking. Additionally, I would work on infrastructure upgrades that enhance traffic flow and ensure our roads and public facilities meet the needs of our growing community.
4. Environmental Sustainability :
   • Challenge : Addressing climate change and promoting sustainability in urban development.
   • Solution : I would champion green initiatives, such as increasing green spaces, promoting energy-efficient building practices, and supporting renewable energy projects. Engaging residents in sustainability efforts, like community clean-up events, can also foster a culture of environmental stewardship.
5. Community Engagement :
   • Challenge : Ensuring all residents feel heard and involved in local governance.
   • Solution : I would implement regular town hall meetings and use digital platforms to facilitate communication between the council and residents. Creating advisory committees that reflect the diversity of our community would also help amplify underrepresented voices.

On the recent Santa Clara County Civil Grand Jury report that  criticized the city council for being dysfunctional

The issues surrounding the Stadium Authority Board and City Council’s oversight of the stadium are deeply concerning. It’s evident that decisions made over the past decade have significantly favored the 49ers, leading to a loss of control and revenue for Santa Clara.

1. Revising Measure J : Allowing changes to the already favorable terms for the 49ers raises questions about the city’s negotiation strength and commitment to maximizing benefits for our community. Any agreements must prioritize the interests of Santa Clara residents.
2. Loss of Leverage : The relinquishing of control in settlement agreements has compromised the city’s ability to manage the stadium effectively. A more proactive stance is essential to ensure that the city retains the power to advocate for its residents.
3. Rejecting Expert Recommendations : The Grand Jury’s suggestion for increased expertise in auditing, financial advising, and marketing is crucial. It is disappointing that city staff and the majority of City Council members did not take the Grand Jury report seriously. Ignoring these recommendations undermines financial management and oversight, which is vital for our city’s future.
4. Revenue Generation : The rejection of efforts to increase revenue from stadium operations is troubling, especially given the modest returns to the city’s general fund. Maximizing revenue should be a priority to support local services and infrastructure.

In my assessment, the City staff and the majority of City Council members should have taken the Grand Jury report to heart and started implementing its recommendations diligently for the betterment of Santa Clara and its residents. It’s time for a shift in approach—one that prioritizes transparency, accountability, and community interests. As a councilmember, I would advocate for a comprehensive review of these agreements and work towards reclaiming the city’s leverage in future negotiations, ensuring that the stadium truly benefits all residents of Santa Clara.

You drew flak for social media posts you had made about former President Donald Trump’s allegations of stolen elections and now debunked claims of a COVID-19 cure. You have since clarified that you no longer support Trump or his policies, especially after Jan 6, 2020.

I want to address the recent allegations that have surfaced in local media, specifically from sources like San Jose Spotlight and Silicon Valley Voice . It’s important to recognize that these claims are unfounded and appear to be driven by special interest groups with their own agendas. These organizations are well-funded and are spreading misinformation to undermine my campaign and distract from the real issues that matter to our community. I believe in transparency and accountability, and I’m committed to addressing concerns directly and honestly.

I urge our community to critically evaluate the information being presented and to engage with me directly if you have questions or concerns. My focus remains on serving the residents of Santa Clara and working collaboratively to create positive change. Together, we can move past negativity and concentrate on building a brighter future for our city.

How has this experience affected you or your run for office?

I am proud to be running a grassroots campaign focused on the needs of all Santa Clara residents. While some may want to discuss my past affiliations, I find that most people are far more concerned with the policies and issues that directly affect their lives.

I am running as a non-partisan candidate because I believe in serving every resident, regardless of their political affiliation. My goal is to foster collaboration and find solutions that benefit our entire community.

As I engage with voters, I explain my vision and thought processes behind key policies. Many residents appreciate this transparency and, once they have the chance to converse with me, they often recognize the misinformation being spread by others. They tend to focus less on party labels and more on the positive impact I aim to bring to our city.

I am uniquely qualified for this role because …

I believe my unique qualifications for the City Council position stem from a combination of my professional experience, community involvement, and demonstrated commitment to public service. Here are a few key aspects:

1. Extensive Professional Background : With 25 years in the IT industry, I bring a strong analytical mindset and problem-solving skills. This background equips me to approach city governance with a focus on data-driven decision-making and innovative solutions to complex issues.
2. Deep Community Engagement : My over a decade of active involvement in Santa Clara, including roles on the Chief Advisory Committee Board and the Charter Review Committee, has allowed me to develop a thorough understanding of our community’s needs and aspirations. I’ve actively listened to residents and collaborated with various stakeholders to drive meaningful change.
3. Proven Leadership : As the former President of the Toscana Rivermark community association, I have successfully led initiatives that fostered community spirit and addressed local concerns. My leadership experience equips me with the skills to navigate challenges and build consensus among diverse groups.
4. Focus on Public Safety and Transparency : My involvement with the Santa Clara Police Department’s advisory board and my advocacy for electing our Police Chief demonstrate my commitment to public safety and transparent governance. I prioritize collaboration between law enforcement and the community to ensure a safer environment for all residents.
5. Endorsements from Community Leaders : The support I’ve received from notable figures, including local leaders and law enforcement, reflects their trust in my ability to represent the community effectively. These endorsements highlight a shared vision for a prosperous and inclusive Santa Clara.

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