Ron Gonzales and former spouse Guisselle Nuñez are set to launch their 102-page self-published paperback, “Life in the FishBowl: Lessons to Assist you in Surviving and Prospering in Elected Office” tonight at Books Inc. in Campbell.
Primarily serving as a guide for aspiring political candidates to comprehend the challenges of public service, the book also serves as an attempt to restore Gonzales’ reputation nearly two decades after his mayoral term concluded.
With his political endeavors behind him and years of community service as a nonprofit leader, Gonzales is hopeful that the Berryessa BART station will bear his name in recognition of his contributions, akin to the convention center, airport, and downtown performing arts center named after his predecessors.
During his tenure as mayor spanning the turn of the millennium, San Jose witnessed the construction of numerous schools, fire stations, and libraries. The city saw the addition of 10,000 units of affordable housing and 20,000 market-rate units. Additionally, the completion of the new city hall, which he influenced architect Richard Meier to design, stands as a functional and iconic landmark. Gonzales also spearheaded the funding and implementation of the BART project, breaking through years of stagnation.
Despite these achievements, Gonzales’ legacy is marred by scandals that plagued his administration. Personal indiscretions, including an affair with a staff member that led to the end of his marriage, and a controversial deal with a union representing waste management workers, tarnished his image. This resulted in censure from his colleagues and demands for his resignation.
The narrative that Gonzales was thrust into the public eye involuntarily is somewhat of a stretch. He strategically surrounded himself with experienced advisors like public relations expert Peter Carter and tax assessor Larry Stone. Gonzales cultivated relationships with the media and even had his close associate, former Sunnyvale public information officer Dave Vossbrink, appointed as the city’s Public Information Officer.
Now retired, Vossbrink played a significant role in editing “Fishbowl,” which Gonzales hopes will shed light on the events that led to his downfall. Despite claiming vindication after the dismissal of felony charges against him, Gonzales harbors bitterness towards the press, the legal system, and former allies whom he perceives as betraying him.
The book, featuring an introduction by Terry Christensen and endorsement from Willie Brown Jr., offers practical advice such as garnering family support before entering politics and conducting self-opposition research to preempt negative campaign attacks.
Gonzales and Nuñez portray themselves as victims of media scrutiny and political vendettas, highlighting the toll these events took on their family. While Gonzales maintains his innocence, critics argue that his lack of accountability and transparency led to his downfall.
The reforms enacted post-Gonzales era aimed to enhance transparency in public affairs, in response to the secrecy surrounding the garbage deal that cost the city millions in additional fees. Despite legal vindication, Gonzales’ legacy remains tainted by the deception and lack of transparency during his tenure.
In conclusion, the narrative of Ron Gonzales’ political journey serves as a cautionary tale, emphasizing the importance of honesty, accountability, and transparency in public service. The lessons learned from his experiences underscore the significance of integrity and ethical conduct in governance.