Former San Jose Mayor Sam Liccardo is currently in the race for Congressman in California’s 16th District, where he is addressing key issues that impact residents in Silicon Valley and along the coast, including homelessness, crime, and rising living costs. On October 6th, Liccardo hosted an online meeting in Saratoga, engaging with supporters and answering their questions.
Liccardo’s campaign team highlights his innovative approach and leadership in tackling homelessness during his time as mayor. He was one of the first to transform motels into housing as early as 2016, setting a precedent four years before the statewide initiative in California. Additionally, he launched a rapid-build modular housing project designed to help homeless individuals transition off the streets. One of his notable initiatives, the “San Jose Bridge,” provided employment opportunities for homeless individuals in city clean-up efforts, in exchange for housing and wages. These efforts were instrumental in making San Jose one of the few cities in California to successfully reduce its homeless population by 2022.
During the meeting, attendees expressed concerns regarding high utility bills from Pacific Gas and Electric (PG&E) and sought updates on homelessness initiatives. The host facilitated a dialogue, allowing Liccardo to respond directly to the supporters’ queries. Participants also discussed local educational issues and the costs associated with ballots, offering their insights on various social challenges, all while enjoying seasonal fruits and coffee.
In his remarks, Liccardo emphasized his commitment to finding practical solutions rather than fabricating answers. He expressed a desire to bring more effective ideas to Washington through strong collaboration with the community. He underscored the need for politics to move away from clichés and partisan bickering, focusing instead on authentic solutions for the people.
