The third largest city in California with a population of 1,013,400 in 2020, San Jose is also the tenth-largest city in the United States. And it’s one of the most prosperous (according to the Brookings Institution’s Metro Monitor 2020), but that doesn’t translate to a population that lacks economic and ethnic diversity. The city sprawls across 176.57 square miles, represented by councilmembers in 10 different districts. To help residents connect in their own areas, the city government offers a map with listings of local neighborhood and business associations.

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City Council

San Jose’s 10 city council members each represent a district, the borders of which are adjusted after every US census. (Photo credit: Calimedia/Shutterstock.com)

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Planning Commission

The Planning Commission serves as an advisory body to the City Council. Meetings are open to the public and are also streamed on cable TV, the city’s website and the city’s YouTube channel.

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Arts Commission

The arts commission provides support for local arts as well as cultural celebrations, public art, education, etc. Its 11 members are appointed by the City Council.

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