CLAYTON, CA (June 1, 2025) — This week, the Contra Costa Civil Grand Jury released a scathing indictment of the Clayton City Council’s poor government practices which include secret meetings, Brown Act Violations and agenda manipulation. Councilmember Holly Tillman has been the lone voice on the council calling out the actions of the majority. This is her response to the report.

As a member of the Clayton City Council, I have consistently advocated for transparency, accountability, and a collaborative approach to governance. In response to the Contra Costa Grand Jury’s recent report, I believe it is crucial to address the underlying issues contributing to staff turnover, and organizational and financial challenges within our city. While the report offers valuable insights and recommendations, it is essential to recognize that the status quo or burying our heads in the sand is a non-starter for me. I feel our council must end their deceitful games, and roll up our sleeves to do the work I have advocated for and that we were elected to do.

In October 2023, I formally requested an independent investigation into the treatment of staff by council. This request was made in the spirit of understanding and addressing the root causes of these issues. However, despite my repeated calls for such an investigation for over 15 months, the council majority has yet to take definitive action nor has my request even made it to the agenda—one of the issues noted in the Grand Jury report. Instead, a governance training workshop was proposed as a step toward improving council dynamics and staff relations. That meeting is scheduled for July 2025 and should only occur if all 5 council members are present and fully engaged to make meaningful changes.

I remain committed to ensuring that our city operates efficiently and in the best interest of its residents – with full transparency. I urge my fellow council members to take the Grand Jury findings and recommendations seriously to help restore stability and trust within our city government, lest the calls for new leadership grow louder.

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I encourage everyone to read the full report and keep in mind that the Grand Jury does not take up every claim they receive. That fact should sit with every resident and I expect you to hold our council accountable.

In the coming days you will be bombarded with attacks on my character for shining a bright light on this report. See those attacks for what they are intended to do, which is to change the narrative instead of addressing the issues.

Join us for our upcoming budget discussion on June 3rd. The more engaged and vigilant our residents are, the more accountable our council majority must be.

Thank you for being engaged!

The Pioneer has requested comment from the other council members, but has not yet heard back.

Related story: The Grand Jury Has Spoken. Clayton, It’s Time to Listen.