January 27, 2005

City Council warmly welcomes Nancy Pyle at swearing-in ceremony

By Lorraine Gabbert
Staff Writer

At a swearing-in ceremony that felt more like a family reunion, Nancy Pyle was warmly welcomed by members of San Jose’s City Council the evening of Jan. 21 at the Almaden Winery Community Center.

Congressperson Zoe Lofgren swears in Councilmember Nancy Pyle.

For Pyle, who fought for a council seat for more than 10 years, the evening was a dream come true. For Councilmember Nora Campos, it was simply divine.

“How wonderful this day is for me personally, but I think for the whole Council,” declared Campos. “And Nancy, we, on the Council are extremely excited to be here this evening to share this glorious day with you.” Vice-Mayor Cindy Chavez echoed her words. “Tonight is a celebration and great joy,” she said.

Phaedra Ellis-Lamkins, executive director for the Labor Council, spoke of Pyle as a unifying force reaching out to teachers, families, and council members. “What Nancy brings to this team of people is…that type of leadership,” said Ellis-Lamkins. “Someone who walks in to a council that is excited to see her.”

With the exceptions of Mayor Ron Gonzales (who was in Washington, D.C.), and Councilmember Forrest Williams, City Council members attended the meeting in force. District 10’s termed-out Vice Mayor Pat Dando, Congresswoman Zoe Lofgren, San Jose Police Chief Rob Davis, and San Jose Fire Chief Jeffrey Clet also attended to wish Pyle well.

“It really does take a village to raise a councilmember,” joked Chavez, who infuses humor into many otherwise staid situations. When asked if she felt badly being an elected official following the controversy surrounding Councilmember Terry O. Gregory, and his subsequent resignation, Chavez quipped, “Look, I feel bad about everything—I’m Catholic!”

Councilmember Nancy Pyle with Councilmember Chuck Reed.

Lofgren believes that Pyle will rejuvenate the economy as well as the school system and will personally relate to the issues facing the district.

“District 10 is about families. It’s about community,” observed Lofgren. “And Nancy understands that, not just intellectually, but emotionally, because she is one of you.” Lofgren complimented Pyle on her tenacity, integrity, and idealism. “This country is successful because we dream about what can be, and Nancy is a dreamer,” stated Lofgren before administering the oath of office.

“I’m so happy to be able to say, ‘and my colleagues on the Council,’” exclaimed Pyle during her acceptance speech. “This evening is about us and what we can do as a team. You and I can work together to make a difference.” In this direction, Pyle aims to unify the district and its diverse people. “I represent Almaden and Blossom Valley and I want to bring those two valleys together,” she affirmed. “I hope to build consensus with groups who have not collaborated with each other in the past. Together, we can build a common vision for District 10.”

Pyle vowed to bring transparency, accountability, and strong business practices to city government. She also envisions forming an advisory roundtable, and a more participatory government.

While serving on the city council, Pyle hopes to “catch people doing right,” and encourages district members to volunteer in their community. During the ceremony, she recognized 84-year-old Edith Keep, who volunteers at a local children’s shelter, as an outstanding community volunteer.

“Never think for a moment that a dedicated group of individuals can’t make a difference,” said Pyle, quoting Margaret Mead, “Indeed, that’s all we’ll ever have.”

With her persistence in running for a council seat three times, and finally succeeding against the odds, some have likened Pyle to the come-from-behind racehorse Seabiscuit. With her passion and determination Pyle has already won the hearts of the majority of the City Council, and her supporters in District 10.

One thing seems clear; Pyle won’t have to fight City Hall.