By GABRIELLE ANDRADE
Special to the Times
One of Congressman Adam Gray’s campaign promises was the economic revitalization of Merced County. He recently put his words into action by turning a previously vacant, boarded-up building in downtown Merced into a new district office.
Displaying the US House of Representatives emblem, Congressman Gray’s office is located at 602 W. 20th St It’s just a short walk from the bustling Main Street, and in view of the Merced County Courthouse Museum.
Congressman Gray just returned from the summer session in Washington DC and has been busy meeting with local community leaders and constituents. Of course, having a Merced office is critical.
“Merced is really the heart of this Congressional district,” Gray said. “It’s also where I was born and raised. It’s the largest population center, and geographically, it’s in the middle of the district, so it’s easily accessible for all the communities that I represent.”
During a well-attended open house on Aug. 22, local community members such as Nancy Gill and Merced County Historical Society President Joyce Mattos, lined up for the opportunity to shake hands and have a chat with their congressman. Visitors also enjoyed treats like tacos, homemade cookies, locally grown nuts, and refreshing beverages.
Elected officials, who came out to show their support, included Merced County Board of Supervisors Josh Pedrozo and Jim Pacheco, District Attorney Nicole Silveira, Merced City Council Members Mike Harris and Darin DuPont, Merced City School Board President Priya Lakireddy, and former Merced Mayor and candidate for the California State Assembly, representing District 27, Mike Murphy. Gray’s family also was at the opening to celebrate this occasion.
Gray’s Congressional Office opening showcases the importance of accessibility for the local community. The resources and support this Congressional office provides will be able to help people with federal concerns or issues they may have.
Congressman Gray said, “If you have issues with veteran services, with healthcare, any other kinds of federal casework, contact us. If you’re not sure, contact us anyway, we are happy to help.”
You can contact Congressman Gray’s office by calling (209) 226-6880.
Adam Gray indicated that his work is just getting started, and that the office opening is only one part of giving back to the Central Valley. The representative said he will work to improve economic development in the area by facilitating investment across all sectors of the regional economy.
“We got to invest in education and healthcare. We got to bring in new economic opportunities. Wehave to continue to grow the University of California, Merced, which is going to bring those opportunities. We have to continue that work so that everyone in this community has a good job, can raise a family, buy a home, and really live the American dream.”
