Danville, California will see three candidates-one incumbent and two newcomers-competing for two at-large seats on the Town Council this November, following the decision of one current member not to seek re-election.
Voters in Danville, California will choose from three candidates for two open at-large seats on the Town Council in the upcoming November election. The race includes one incumbent, Robert Storer, and two challengers, Denton Carlson and Pratima Sonavne. The filing period for candidates was extended to August 12, and the final list was confirmed by August 14.
The two seats up for election include the one currently held by Robert Storer and a second seat left open after Karen Stepper announced she would not seek another term. The outcome will shape the direction of the council as it addresses issues ranging from public safety to economic development.
Meet the Candidates
Denton Carlson, a 15-year Danville resident, recently retired as San Ramon Police Chief in December 2025. His law enforcement career also included roles with the Contra Costa Sheriff's Office, SWAT command, and detective work. Carlson currently serves on several boards, such as the California Police Chiefs Association and the San Ramon Regional Medical Center. His campaign focuses on public safety, fiscal responsibility, managed growth, government efficiency, and supporting a strong local economy and downtown.
Incumbent Robert Storer has lived in Danville for 37 years and has served on the Town Council since 2009, including three terms as mayor. Storer's experience includes work on the town's Finance Committee, as council liaison to the San Ramon Valley Unified School District, and on boards such as the All Wars Memorial Board and the Honorary Sheriff's Association of Alameda County. He lists public safety, balanced budgeting, open space preservation, and support for local schools and businesses among his top priorities.
Pratima Sonavne, also a Danville resident, is the founder of Kurious Kids childcare center and holds a master's degree in Human Resource Management. She previously ran for Contra Costa County Clerk-Recorder in June. As of the candidate filing deadline, her campaign website remained focused on that earlier race. Attempts to reach Sonavne for comment were unsuccessful.
What Voters Should Know
The two at-large seats on the Danville Town Council are open to all eligible voters in the town, rather than being tied to specific districts. The election will take place in November, with the winners helping to set policy on issues such as public safety, budgeting, economic development, and community growth. The council's decisions can affect everything from local business conditions to the preservation of open space and the quality of public services.
Danville's Town Council typically addresses matters including land use, fiscal planning, and partnerships with local organizations and schools. Council members serve as key decision-makers for the town's future direction. The upcoming election provides residents with an opportunity to influence priorities and leadership for the next term.
In Danville, council elections are held at-large, meaning all registered voters in the town can vote for any candidate. The two candidates receiving the most votes will fill the available seats. The next council term will begin following the certification of election results.
