San Jose Mayor-elect taps Cortese for Vice Mayor

By Jason Bennert, Bay City News Service

December 4, 2006

SAN JOSE (BCN) - San Jose Mayor-elect Chuck Reed today announced his selection of City Councilman David Cortese, one of his opponents in this year's mayoral election, as his vice mayor.

Cortese came in fourth place with 16 percent of the vote in June's mayoral primary election. Reed got the most votes in June and trounced current Vice Mayor Cindy Chavez by 20 points in last month's runoff election.

"Councilmember Cortese shares my commitment to open government and to reforming city hall. His broad work experience in collaboration with other cities will be an invaluable asset as we deal with regional issues that affect the quality of life in San Jose,'' Reed said.

Cortese, 50, has been on the City Council since 2000, representing the Evergreen neighborhood. He is a lawyer by training.

"Mayor-elect Reed has declared reform the necessary first step in restoring trust and pride in City Hall. He made a commitment that an open, honest and transparent government will soon be a reality in San Jose. I share that vision and look forward to doing everything I can to implement it,'' Cortese said.

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