Pleasanton Mayor Jack Balch Launches Re-Election Campaign

PLEASANTON, CA — Mayor Jack Balch announced Monday that he will run for re-election. Balch, who has been mayor since 2024 and served on the Pleasanton City Council since 2020, said he wants to “continue building on the progress and momentum the city has achieved together.” Balch celebrated his re-election kickoff with an event at Oasis Restaurant that attracted over 100 community members, according to his campaign.

“Pleasanton is an extraordinary community, and it’s been an honor to serve as your Mayor,” Balch said in a statement. “We’ve made meaningful progress, with real results that are focused on enhancing our quality of life. I’m running for re-election to continue making thoughtful decisions today that secure a stronger future for tomorrow.”

Balch grew up near the Fremont-Sunol border, and spent much of his early life in Pleasanton. He has lived in the city for over 20 years with his family, and is a certified public accountant, commercial real estate broker, and CFO of his family real estate business. His political career began in 2009 with a seat on the Parks and Recreation Commission, followed by a seat on the Planning Commission in 2014. He was elected to the City Council in 2020, and in 2024, successfully challenged incumbent Mayor Karla Brown.

In his re-election announcement, Balch said key priorities for his next term include:

• Maintaining fiscal responsibility while protecting essential services like public safety and community preparedness
• Investing in infrastructure and quality-of-life improvements
• Enhancing economic growth and vitality
• Strengthening community engagement and trust in local government

Balch’s bid comes as Pleasanton continues to navigate significant long-term financial challenges, notably a structural budget deficit projected in the millions annually driven by rising costs, slowing revenue growth, and lingering pandemic effects. As a result, the city has had to make several cuts, including reducing library hours, cutting community programs, grants, planning services, and other city services. The city is also exploring new ways to bring in revenue, including changes to the transient occupancy tax.

At the same time, the city is grappling with major infrastructure needs, from water systems to roads, that require funding well beyond current levels. City Manager Gerry Beaudin is also expected to leave the city and serve as city manager of Alameda.

Balch said that in his time as mayor, he has focused on strengthening the city’s fiscal stability, enhancing public safety, and fostering a sense of community connection and trust.

“I’m asking for your support and your vote on November 3rd,” Balch added. “Together, we can continue building a future for Pleasanton that is thoughtful, resilient, and full of opportunity,” he said.

For more information, visit jackforpleasanton.com.

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