About Greg

Greg Young was raised by hardworking parents who instilled in him the belief that education and economic opportunity are the foundations of strong, vibrant communities. These values are at the heart of Martinez, a city that has provided a safe and nurturing environment for his family. Greg and his wife have been fortunate to raise their three children here, in the place they proudly call home.

Greg is a dedicated public servant with a career that blends financial leadership, community advocacy, and a deep commitment to social justice. As a candidate for Martinez City Council, Greg brings over 25 years of experience living and working in the city, having moved to Martinez to build a life and home, just like many of the working-class and young professionals in his district today.

Greg’s career highlights his dedication to uplifting underserved communities. In his current role as Senior Deputy Commissioner at the Department of Financial Protection and Innovation, Greg oversees the regulation of financial institutions, ensuring they meet the needs of all Californians, particularly those in low-to-moderate income areas. His work at Umpqua Bank and Wells Fargo focused on creating lending programs that specifically supported working families, small businesses, and communities historically overlooked by traditional financial services.

What sets Greg apart is his deep-rooted commitment to social justice and his consistent advocacy for real solutions to housing affordability, economic equity, and community well-being. Unlike many career politicians, Greg’s work goes beyond words. His leadership on various boards, including the Juvenile Hall Auxiliary and the Boys and Girls Club of Contra Costa County, speaks to his dedication to helping youth and vulnerable populations. His time as a Planning Commissioner for Martinez also gave him firsthand experience in making decisions that shape the future of the city while keeping the needs of working families front and center.

Greg’s candidacy offers a fresh, grounded perspective in a district that has evolved over the years. He understands that homeownership is increasingly out of reach for many, and he’s committed to fighting for policies that ensure affordable housing and fair wages for union workers and young professionals. He’s not interested in the old-school “Not In My Backyard” approach that slows progress. Instead, he’s focused on smart growth and sustainable solutions that prioritize the people of Martinez.

Greg Young is a voice for the new Martinez—a Martinez that cares about the environment, economic justice, and ensuring that the city works for everyone, not just a privileged few. His lifelong commitment to service and his vision for a thriving, inclusive community make him the clear choice for City Council.