More women serving on California city councils in small cities, report finds

A new report out last week found that the number of female city council members ticked up slightly in California, but they are more common in small cities than large, urban centers.

Across the state, there are now 727 women serving on California city councils, making up just over a quarter of all council members, according to the report from the nonprofit California Women Lead. The group co-sponsored the report with the League of California Cities Women's Caucus.

This year's numbers show women increased their representation by 21 council members compared to last year. Cities with fewer than 100,000 residents have the most women on city councils, the report notes.

“Some of the smaller populated cities actually have more women running them,” said Rachel Michelin, executive director and CEO of California Women Lead. 

Keep up with LAist.

If you're enjoying this article, you'll love our daily newsletter, The LA Report. Each weekday, catch up on the 5 most pressing stories to start your morning in 3 minutes or less.

Subscribe

Noting the disparity between smaller and larger cities, Michelin said: “I do think that’s an issue. I think, though, that women serve where they think they can make a difference.”

Los Angeles is home to just one female on the 15-member City Council. Former school board member Nury Martinez holds that position.

In Eureka, population 27,000, the five-member city council is the only one in the state comprised of all women. Councilmember Kim Bergel secured the fifth seat when she beat out a male incumbent by just 46 votes late last year. 

“It was really exciting. It was kind of a nail-biter, actually,” she said.

After more than a decade watching council meetings on TV, Bergel said it was time to step up.

“You know, I could sit and complain, but that’s not who I am. And so I decided to run and see if I couldn’t change some of those things that really bothered me,” she said.

Bergel said she is tackling issues like homelessness and finding affordable housing for community members.  She juggles her city work with a part-time job at a Montessori school where she works as a special needs aide. 

California Women Lead hopes to encourage more women to run for political office. The group holds events to help recruit women, one of which is scheduled in Bakersfield later this month. Those interested can register online. Ticket prices start at $50.