May 6, 2026
Family of Barry Ferrier
Dear Family Members,
I was saddened to learn of Barry’s passing. Barry and I go back to at least 1988. My first recollection of Barry is when I was appointed to serve on the newly formed Redevelopment Advisory Committee that was tasked with addressing the insolvent Pacific States Steel Corporation property. Today we are proud to showcase that area as the Station District. Barry attended our meetings and his thoughts were an important component of our conversations. In the early 90’s I was appointed to the planning commission and there was Barry, commenting on the important issues of the day (which stretched to years), our Hillside protection policies. In 1997, I was elected to the city council and there was Barry, attending council meetings. He commented on the important issues of the day from should Union City bring back its fire department from Fremont to city finances. As I recall, Barry was on the ad hoc finance committee we formed to address our lacking city revenues. In 2011 and 2012, while I was off the council and in charge of our CERT program, there was Barry, attending our CERT meetings and participating in our drills. I recall one of the drills where Barry and my husband, Mike, were partners practicing putting out fires. In 2012 when I was elected mayor, there was Barry. He attended council meetings and always commented on our economic development efforts. As a result, we created the Economic Development Advisory Committee, EDAT. Of course, there was Barry attending those meetings as well.
As I have just outlined, Barry’s voice had a meaningful impact on city policy through his steadfast advocacy for the Union City community. He could always be counted on to contribute thoughtfully to important discussions because he genuinely cared about the future of Union City. He also chaired the Citizen Advisory Commission and served tirelessly as a role model, demonstrating how active civic participation can truly make a difference.
Barry exemplified the very best of civic engagement and public service. His dedication helped make Union City a better place for all, and his contributions will not be forgotten.
Sincerely,
Carol Dutra-Vernaci
Former Mayor, Union City