James Rohr for City Council

My Commitment to Equitable Representation

Hello!! I am James Rohr and I am officially announcing my candidacy for City Council, citing my lifelong dedication to strong local governance and my desire to ensure equitable representation for all residents within both the city and District 1.

My perspective is shaped by my service in the U.S. Army and my time living abroad in Europe. Professionally, I bring over twenty years of robust technical leadership to this community. My career has specialized in cybersecurity and systems administration, including time at NASA’s security operations center.

I am deeply committed to our District and neighborhood spending time every month meeting with our community based organizations working alongside neighbors to address key issues facing Belle Haven. I aim to bridge the gap between technical expertise and our community’s needs. As a resident of Menlo Park and an active volunteer in Belle Haven, my focus is on ensuring every voice in District 1 is heard.

Volunteer with the Campaign

Campaign Instagram Channel

My Platform for a Stronger Menlo Park

History teaches us that a community is only as strong as the leadership that protects its values. I propose focusing on these key areas to ensure sustainable, equitable growth:

Expand Low-Cost Housing Opportunities

Support zoning reforms to allow more multi-family housing development and incentivize developers to build affordable units through tax credits. Reduce barriers to entry for first-time homebuyers.

Strengthen Tenant Protections

Advocate for expanded tenant protection laws and ensure access to Right to Counsel for tenants facing eviction. Fund a tenant resource center to support families navigating housing court.

Food Access

We must eliminate food deserts by incentivizing grocery stores to open in underserved neighborhoods. I commit to ensuring every resident lives within a half-mile of a full-service grocery store with fresh, affordable options.

Community Improvement

Update and improve local infrastructure (addressing concerns like Ivy drive changes). Invest in local food farmers markets to boost the local economy and health. Help residents with home upkeep and yard/garden assistance.

Understanding Our Roots: Menlo Park & Belle Haven History

Menlo Park’s history is rich and complex. The land stands on the ancestral lands of Ohlone peoples, including the Ramaytush Ohlone, with nearby Bay Area Indigenous lineages such as Muwekma Ohlone. Before Spanish colonization, these communities maintained independent village networks across the peninsula.

The name “Menlo Park” dates to 1854, established by Irish immigrants who built an estate named after their hometown in County Galway, Ireland. When the railroad arrived in 1863, the station adopted the same name. Later, Menlo Park annexed Belle Haven in 1949.

Local Representation Matters

Menlo Park is unique "one-size-fits-all" governance doesn't work here. Local leadership ensures that as we modernize, we don't lose the charm and character of our neighborhood. We need representatives who understand the nuances of local life.

Community Support & Endorsements

I am proud to stand with committed local leaders and residents who share my vision for a vibrant, equitable Menlo Park.

County Endorsements:

Service Employees International Union - Local 521 (SEIU 521)

Local Endorsements:

Eduardo Lopez Hernandez - Vice Chair Environmental Quality Commission
Miyko Harris-Parker – Lifelong Belle Haven Resident and community organizer
Victoria Robledo – Belle Haven Resident
Yadira DiSiena – Belle Haven Resident
Pam D Jones – Menlo Park Resident

Local Media:

Ready to Build Our Future Together?

I am committed to preserving our history while securing our future through transparent, technical, and community-focused leadership.

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