Editor’s note: The Coronado News has invited all city council and mayoral candidates to submit a first-person article about their background, civic involvement and reason for running for office. We intend to run articles in the order they are received.
For the past decade, I’ve observed how local government decisions have shaped the communities around me and have been looking forward to the opportunity to contribute.
As a business owner and homeowner, I’ve come to deeply appreciate the significance of good governance and its tangible impact on the community. Since moving to Coronado, I’ve immersed myself in local life, keen to understand the intricate dynamics that make this place so unique. It’s a blend of dedicated residents, charitable foundations, and the tireless efforts of our city employees and elected officials; all working together in a symbiotic relationship that enables Coronado to flourish.
In my first week here, I explored as many local businesses as I could, eager to familiarize myself with the island. A chance encounter at Feast & Fairway led to a lively conversation with Rob Crenshaw about the Island Beer Club. I was instantly intrigued and quickly became a member.
The club is a microcosm of Coronado itself, with members from all walks of life—current and former city officials, lifelong residents, young and old, working and retired. As the largest social club in Coronado, it’s not only well-organized but has also been a gateway for me to meet fascinating people, learn about our city’s history, and forge new, cherished friendships.
My interest in local governance deepened as I began attending City Council meetings, which inspired me to apply for a position on one of the city’s boards and commissions. In April 2023, I was appointed to the Mobility Commission.
This commission is tasked with implementing the Active Transportation Master Plan, developing a traffic calming strategy, assisting city staff with planning and implementing complete and sustainable streets, advancing Vision Zero concepts, and integrating emerging technologies like autonomous and electric vehicles into our city’s transportation network. This role has provided me with invaluable hands-on experience and a deeper understanding of the critical elements that keep Coronado moving forward.
In 2022, I joined the Coronado Fourth of July board during a time of significant reorganization. It’s been an incredible learning experience, offering a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to produce Coronado’s largest annual event.
Last year, we celebrated our 75th anniversary with one of the best parades, leapfrog demonstrations, concerts, and of course, a spectacular fireworks display. It was a wonderful opportunity to witness the community come together to celebrate Independence Day and to showcase the qualities that make our island so special.
Seeing so many residents volunteer and contribute to our city’s vibrant events inspired me to learn more about the groups and clubs behind them. With new friends who were Rotarians, joining the Coronado Rotary Club felt like a natural choice.
The Rotary Club plays a vital role in our community, organizing events like Flags on Orange Avenue, Beach Cleanups, Low Tide Ride & Stride, and the End Polio Now Wine Tasting, among many others. Being a Rotarian has connected me to a larger family, all dedicated to making a difference in our community.
As someone who has worked for various companies and now owns a business, I understand how crucial the success of local businesses is to the overall health of the community. Being a member of the Coronado Chamber of Commerce has opened up great networking opportunities and allowed me to support the promotion of new businesses in town.
From the Art & Wine Festival to Chamber Socials, Sip & Shop, ribbon-cutting events, and the Celebrate Coronado Community Awards, the Chamber plays an essential role in fostering our local economy.
In addition to my current involvement, I also support various local organizations, including the Coronado Historical Association, Emerald Keepers, FOCUS, Coronado Schools Foundation, PAWS, and Safe Harbor Coronado. These are just a few of the many foundations addressing specific issues and supporting important causes within our community. It doesn’t take much to make a meaningful impact.
As I continue this journey, I’m eager to meet as many residents as possible and gain a deeper understanding of Coronado’s past, all with the goal of offering the best possible representation. As your councilman, I look forward to working together to shape our community’s future.
Andrew Gade is running for a seat in City Council in the Nov. 5 elections. Mark Fleming, Christine Mott, Amy Steward, Mark Warner and Laura Wilkinson Sinton are also running.
