Opinion: A new mayor’s perspective on building stronger communities

As I step into the role of mayor of Saratoga for 2025, I am filled with gratitude and a deep sense of responsibility. Serving our community is an incredible honor, and I’m excited about the possibilities we can achieve together. I would like to thank my fellow council members for trusting me with this role. Our strength lies in our diverse perspectives and respect for one another. Despite the polarization that often defines state, national and even local politics, over the last two years we have worked together to achieve what’s best for the City of Saratoga.

In looking to the future, my vision for Saratoga is clear: I want it to be a welcoming, kind and vibrant community for everyone—residents, businesses and visitors alike. Kindness is what makes any community strong, whether it’s saying hello to a neighbor, planting a tree or supporting first responders who risk their lives every day to protect us. That spirit is something I believe all communities can embrace.

My focus over the next year will center on three key areas: traffic safety, neighborhoods and community vitality. Each of these areas are of great importance to all cities pursuing a sustainable, thriving community.

One initiative I’m particularly looking forward to is launching Saratoga’s first-ever Safe Routes to School Day, which will occur later this year. This event will bring together law enforcement, schools and families to prioritize safety for our children as they walk or bike between home and school.

Programs like Safe Routes to School, already successful in several cities in Santa Clara County, reduce traffic congestion near schools and foster safer environments for pedestrians and cyclists. Planning and executing the event is an opportunity for our city to execute, observe and iterate changes we implement while getting active feedback across the community. In Saratoga, where we walk, run and bike along winding, tree-lined roadways, it is essential we support and promote healthy lifestyle choices through ongoing traffic safety awareness, education and involvement.

Our neighborhoods have some changes on the horizon, many that we cannot fully influence. With 22 new development projects expected in Saratoga under Senate Bill 330, it is essential for us to remain proactive to create positive outcomes for existing and future residents. Actively guiding changes in a way that preserves and enriches our neighborhoods will provide an opportunity to build new friendships with new neighbors while we keep open minds and open hearts. Together, we can create spaces where people can thrive—where first responders who travel a long distance to keep us safe, schoolteachers who guide our students and local businesses’ employees who make our quality of life possible can find an affordable place to live closer to work and call Saratoga their home.

Finally, when it comes to community vitality, Saratoga’s diversity is one of its greatest assets. While 20% of our residents are under age 18 and 26% over 65, our population spans multiple generations, lifestyles and needs. While fostering friendships, helping our aging residents and supporting local businesses and their employees, our strength lies in our shared commitment to connection. I’m deeply aware of the loneliness epidemic affecting communities across the country, including ours. Community doesn’t just appear at your doorstep; it’s something we must actively build through effort, intention and care.

As I reflect on Saratoga’s story, I’m reminded of the 13th-century poet Rumi’s words: “This being human is a guest house. Every morning a new arrival. … Be grateful for whoever comes, because each has been sent as a guide from beyond.” Let’s embrace the changes and challenges ahead, knowing they may pave the way for something greater. Together, we’ll write a story that’s defined by kindness, courage and hope.

I would like to invite you to visit me during my Mayor’s Office Hours at the Saratoga Farmers’ Market. I will have a table on the first Saturday of each month from 10 a.m. to noon and would enjoy meeting you in person, listening to whatever is on your mind, and answering any questions about our city’s programs and services and its many projects. You are also welcome to send me an email at belal@saratoga.ca.us.

Belal Aftab is the mayor of Saratoga.