Redwood City Election Watch 2024 is the Pulse’s first-ever podcast series featuring in-depth conversations with the candidates running for Redwood City Council this November. Hosted by Simmerdeep Kaur, this series allows you to hear directly from the candidates about their motivations, priorities and plans for the future of Redwood City. Each episode explores the perspectives and visions of those vying for your vote, helping you make an informed decision at the polls. Tune in and stay informed as we dive into the issues that matter most to our community.
Redistricting and Redwood City
In this episode, we dive into Redwood City’s redistricting process and its impact on the upcoming 2024 City Council elections. Our guest, former Redwood City Pulse reporter Leah Worthington, who covered the redistricting process extensively, walks us through the 2022 boundary changes and how they have shaped the city’s political landscape. We explore the reasons behind the shift from at-large elections to district-based elections, the role of community input, and the challenges faced during redistricting. Leah also shares insights on what voters in districts 1, 3, 4, and 7 can expect in this year’s election and how these changes aim to create fairer representation for all residents.
Hosted and produced by Simmerdeep Kaur; Written by Michelle Iracheta and Simmerdeep Kaur
In conversation with Mayor Jeff Gee
Redwood City Mayor Jeff Gee, running for re-election, shares his approach to key city issues like public safety, the budget deficit, and infrastructure. He emphasizes regional collaboration on challenges like homelessness and transportation, addresses the divide between Redwood Shores and the main city, and outlines his plan for closing the $9.3 million annual deficit. Gee also reflects on his tenure and the upcoming election.
Hosted by Simmerdeep Kaur; Written and produced by Michelle Iracheta and Simmerdeep Kaur
By becoming a member you contribute to sustaining the local journalism that impacts you daily. But more than that, you ensure our dedicated reporters can dig deep into the candidate’s records and help understand the ballot measures and their potential impact, providing critical information when you need it most.
In conversation with Vice Mayor Lissette Espinoza-Garnica
Vice Mayor Lissette Espinoza-Garnica, running for re-election in District 3, reflects on their first term, discussing tenant protections, climate justice, rent stabilization, and affordable housing. They also share plans for expanding bike lanes, public transportation, and advocating for marginalized voices. Espinoza-Garnica offers insights on development, police reform, and sustainable growth in Redwood City.
Hosted and produced by Simmerdeep Kaur; Written by Michelle Iracheta and Simmerdeep Kaur
In conversation with Isabella Chu
In this episode, The Pulse interviews District 3 candidate Isabella Chu, a Planning Commissioner and co-chair of the Friendly Acres neighborhood association, who is challenging Vice Mayor Lissette Espinoza-Garnica in a rematch of their 2020 race. Chu discusses her priorities, including public safety, infrastructure, and housing affordability, and addresses local concerns like traffic safety and flooding. She also shares her views on the city’s budget deficit, plans to leverage federal infrastructure funding, and her hopes for the November 2024 election.
Hosted by Simmerdeep Kaur; Produced by Jennifer Yoshikoshi; Written by Michelle Iracheta and Simmerdeep Kaur
Redwood City District 4 and Elmer Martínez Saballos
Simmerdeep Kaur and Pulse Editor Michelle Iracheta discuss Redwood City’s District 4 and what sets it apart from other parts of the city. The Pulse was unable to get a response from Elmer Martinez Saballos, who is running for election District 4, about joining us on the podcast. Michelle Iracheta, also a resident of District 4, walks us through how Elmer was appointed following Michael Smith’s abrupt leave from the City Council and the issues facing the district.
Hosted by Simmerdeep Kaur; Written and produced by Michelle Iracheta and Simmerdeep Kaur
In conversation with Diana Reddy
District 7 candidate Diana Reddy, a lifelong Redwood City resident and former council member, discusses her platform focused on housing, environmental issues, and economic justice. She reflects on the city’s changes, rising housing costs, and her advocacy for affordable housing. Reddy also addresses challenges like staff retention, safe routes for students, and infrastructure concerns.
Hosted by Simmerdeep Kaur; Written and produced by Michelle Iracheta and Simmerdeep Kaur
In conversation with Marcella Padilla
In this episode of Redwood City Election Watch 2024, we interview Marcella Padilla, a candidate for Redwood City’s District 7 Council seat. Padilla discusses her background as a Parks and Recreation Commissioner for over a decade, her experiences working in both the private and nonprofit sectors and her dedication to improving Redwood City’s parks, public safety and child care. She also shares her vision for supporting small businesses. As she challenges a previous council member, Diana Reddy, Padilla outlines her plans for engaging the community, building consensus and bringing a fresh perspective to the City Council.
Hosted by Simmerdeep Kaur; Produced by Jennifer Yoshikoshi; Written by Michelle Iracheta and Simmerdeep Kaur