This week's program

Aug 21, 2014

Dave Cortese

"Santa Clara County 2020: Vision for the Future, Lighting Up The Bay"

           The 2014-2015 theme of Rotary International is Light Up Rotary. The next few years require vision, wisdom, and a knowledge of the multi-faceted issues confronting our communities in the context of Rotary
           Santa Clara County, known in the early 20th Century as the Valley of Heart's Delight, boasts 15 cities that includes San Jose, the 10th most populous city in the country. The citizenry is culturally rich and diverse. The assets and opportunities, as well as the challenges, are also diverse and span a wide range of issues including transportation, agriculture, high tech, public health and public safety, natural resources, housing, economic development and employment opportunities, financial sustainability, and a changing infrastructure.
           In the context of governance, what are the options for Santa Clara as a county, working with local municipalities to continue and enhance its vision and leadership role in the region to Light Up The Bay.
           Santa Clara County Supervisor and former Vice Mayor of the City of San Jose will share his thoughts and reflection on the immediate road ahead to 2020. Supervisor Dave Cortese was elected to the Santa Clara County Board of Supervisors in 2008. Before joining the Board, Cortese served eight years on the San Jose City Council, including two years as Vice Mayor. From 1992 through 2000, he served on the East Side Union High School District Board of Education.

          He grew up in San Jose as part of a family that has been active in civic, cultural and business activities for generations. He is married to Pattie, also a community leader, and has four children. His strong local roots and love for Santa Clara County fuel his passion for public service.

        On the Board of Supervisors, Dave is currently Chair of the Housing, Land Use, Environment and Transportation Committee and Vice Chair of the Children, Seniors and Families Committee. He is also Vice Chair of the Metropolitan Transportation Commission and a past member of Valley Transportation Authority.

        Dave has been a member of the Rotary Club of San Jose/East Evergreen since 1986 and lives in Evergreen.