Harbir Kaur Bhatia, a dedicated community organizer and civic entrepreneur in Santa Clara, is running for City Council from District 1. As an Indian American Sikh, Bhatia’s work is influenced by the teachings of ‘Sikhi’ and the principles of dharma and seva. She believes in building a new pipeline of future leaders to ensure a more diverse and unified voice in the city’s governance.
Bhatia’s main goal as a councilmember is to prioritize the needs of residents, provide solutions to current challenges, and plan for future opportunities. She emphasizes the importance of integrity, critical thinking, economic development, and problem-solving to maintain the city’s resources and services. Her top priorities include sustainable planning, economic development, and community engagement and leadership development.
One of the key challenges facing Santa Clara is poor planning and decisions made in the past that have negatively impacted the city’s financial status, public services, infrastructure, and community safety. Bhatia aims to restore integrity in governance through enhanced community engagement and involvement of residents in decision-making processes.
Regarding the Santa Clara County Civil Grand Jury report criticizing the city council for dysfunction, Bhatia believes that the city needs a council member who understands the unique challenges of District 1 and can bridge the gap with the broader community. She emphasizes the importance of unity, ethical standards, and effective communication to improve the city and foster a more united community.
Bhatia’s qualifications for the role include her deep connection to the community, extensive professional experience, and leadership roles in various organizations. She has a track record of community engagement, including securing funding for the Northside Library, organizing COVID-19 relief efforts, and advocating for initiatives that benefit residents. Bhatia’s commitment to putting the community first, along with her proven results and recognition from local and international institutions, demonstrate her dedication to building a sustainable future for all residents of Santa Clara.
In conclusion, Harbir Kaur Bhatia’s candidacy for Santa Clara City Council represents a commitment to serving the community, fostering unity, and addressing the city’s challenges through effective planning, economic development, and community engagement. Her experience, qualifications, and dedication make her a strong candidate to lead District 1 and work towards a brighter future for Santa Clara.
