Silja Paymer for Mountain View City Council 2026
Bringing Safe Streets & a Greener Future — with Heart and Harmony
Meet Silja:
Community Leader
With 20+ years volunteering on local environmental projects I have deep roots in bay area advocacy. I am a tireless champion for family-friendly policies and grassroots engagement.
I believe in a Mountain View where every child can walk or bike safely, and where we all live in healthy, thriving ecosystem that supports our well-being.
Why Silja?
A Voice for Our Children
I’ve spent the last 19 years rooted in Mountain View. You might know me from the halls of the high school, where I’ve dedicated my career to preparing our students for the world. Or you might recognize me on my bike, pedaling my kids through our neighborhoods. Or you may have run into me in the Cuesta Pollinator Habitat working to bring native plants to our parks.
I see our city through two lenses: as a teacher, I am a planner. I look at the long-term growth and the 'smart' way to manage our resources. As a mom, I am a protector. I feel the urgency of keeping our planet livable and making our streets safer today.
Mountain View is at a crossroads. We are making big decisions about housing and progress, but we cannot lose our soul in the process. I am running to ensure our growth is community-centered, transparent, and—above all—safe for the families who call this place home.
Inspired by the 1970s spirit of community activism and environmental awareness, I am ready to bring that groovy energy back to Mountain View — building a city where everyone can thrive in peace and harmony.
Silja's Vision: A Mountain View That Blossoms
Imagine streets alive with children biking safely, neighbors greeting each other warmly, and nature thriving in every corner. Silja envisions a city where environmental responsibility and community well-being grow hand in hand.
Platform
Transportation safety for All
Safe Streets for Children
The majority of our city-owned public spaces are the streets. Children should have safe access to our public spaces. Streets need to be safe for children to utilize.
Safer infrastructure for All
40% of people with disabilities cannot drive. Streets should be safe for all users, including those who cannot or choose not to drive.
Vision Zero
We need to implement effective policies and projects that reduce injuries and deaths on city streets.
Smart solutions
Use evidence-based tools, technology, and design to make our city streets safer and more efficient for all forms of transportation.
Environment and sustainability
Expand green space
Expand park space and access as well as the urban canopy to reduce climate impacts and the heat island effect.
Integrate biodiversity in the urban setting
Biodiversity is key to our environmental health. Encouraging the use of native plants thorughout the city will allow us to live alongside the birds and creatures that are our Mountain View cohabitants.
Clean energy
Practical steps to reduce emissions in city operations and planning.
Zero waste
Recycling, composting, and education that actually moves the needle.
Community for All
Volunteer Engagement
Mountain View residents are highly educated and enthusiastic. They have a lot to offer the city through all levels of contribution and should be partners in city decisions and events.
Strong Neighborhoods
When neighbors work together we have better communites and happier residents. CERT, Block Parties, Ice Cream Socials, and the Cool Block program provide opportunities for building relationships.
Safe Housing
All of our neighbors deserve a safe place to sleep.
Basic Necessities for All our Neighbors
All residents should have access to healthcare and nutrition.
Mountain View for All
Get Involved: Join the Movement
Be part of the groovy change Mountain View needs! There are many ways to support safe streets and a greener future.
Ways to help
Volunteer
Canvassing, phone banking, and event support.
Meetups
Small gatherings to meet neighbors and talk issues.
Follow along
Social updates and campaign announcements.
Donate
Support printing, outreach, and field operations.
Vote Silja Paymer For Safe Kids, Clean Air, and a Brighter Tomorrow
Together, we can create a Mountain View that's safe, sustainable, and full of peace and love. Make your voice heard on Election Day!
Silja's Events
Join Silja at upcoming community events.