A Voice for East San José

Peter Ortiz is a proud East San José native and lifelong advocate for improved public safety, neighborhood revitalization, and economic opportunity. Raised by a single mother in a working-class family, Peter overcame early struggles with poverty, housing insecurity, and youth violence to become a leader grounded in compassion and resilience.

Before joining the San José City Council, he served on the Santa Clara County Board of Education and the Mt. Pleasant School Board, where he championed youth empowerment and worked to dismantle barriers that faced all students. Professionally, he has worked in policy and nonprofit roles, supporting small businesses, education, and workforce development.

Elected in 2022 to represent District 5, Peter brings authentic lived experience to City Hall as someone who was caught up in gang violence and experienced homelessness at a young age. His work focuses on making East San José safer and cleaner for local families, advocating for equitable economic investment on the East Side, and supporting local small business owners, all while being guided by the belief that no neighborhood or resident should be left behind.

Through perseverance and purpose, Peter Ortiz embodies the power of redemption, community, and public service, a reminder that authentic leadership begins with understanding the struggles of those you serve.