(GRASS VALLEY, CA) Former Grass Valley City Council Member Bob Branstrom announced he is running for Grass Valley City Council in the November 2026 General Election. Previously, he served on the City Council from 2020 to 2024. Besides serving on City Council, he has been an active volunteer in many local organizations since moving to Grass Valley in 2013.
During his time on the City Council, Grass Valley improved community life significantly, including making the Mill Street Plaza permanent, expanding recreational opportunities with more soccer fields, more pickleball courts, and upgraded baseball and swimming facilities. Grass Valley joined Pioneer Community Energy, lowering electricity bills for city residents and businesses. During that time, many city streets were resurfaced or repaved. Fire safety was improved with more funding for fire fighters and a risk management team. These and other improvements are making Grass Valley a better place to live, work, and play.
Branstrom wants to continue this work, focusing on housing and economic development, while maintaining fiscal stewardship of taxpayer dollars. He sees local businesses as a key factor in maintaining a vibrant community, saying “Our local businesses are the economic driver for Grass Valley, and I will continue to support them.”
He is a big supporter of our local arts community and currently serves on the InConcert Sierra Board of Directors. He is excited about their construction of Crown Point Venues and what it will do to elevate the performing arts in Grass Valley. He enjoys hiking and is an award-winning local photographer. His career included work in government, banking, and healthcare, providing useful skills to serve Grass Valley.
In announcing his run for City Council, he said, “Grass Valley is a special place that I am proud to call home. The community is welcoming and it is a privilege to live here and contribute to making it a better place. Grass Valley needs trusted, experienced, and well-informed leadership to protect and strengthen our community. I am committed to providing that for our residents and businesses.”
He can be reached at branstrom4gvcouncil@gmail.com.