Mayor Fred Jung stated, “We have some direct appointments to make. So, Madam City Clerk, if you would be kind enough to give a brief presentation, we’ll proceed with that because I tend to forget.”

City Clerk Lucinda Williams stated, “It’s that time of year for the Council to make direct appointments to the city boards, commissions, and committees. The number of appointments following elections is usually larger since most terms align with those of the council members. This evening, you have several appointments to consider. Additionally, Mayor Pro Tem Shana Charles and Council Member Ahmad Zahra will address some midterm appointments.”

Public Comments on Appointments

Todd Harrison emphasized the importance of managing committee costs and the need for active participation in community affairs. He expressed gratitude for the Senior Citizen Committee remaining unchanged and reassured that he and other members are committed to meaningful action. Reflecting on a past encounter with John Saunders, Harrison acknowledged the value of community engagement. He concluded by requesting that those in charge of appointments consider putting someone forward for the senior committee, appreciating their support.

Curtis Gamble expressed concerns about the lack of communication and engagement from subcommittee members during meetings. He noticed that, despite attending regularly, his recommendations on behalf of the public often went unacknowledged. Gamble emphasized the importance of better communication and interaction during these meetings, suggesting that subcommittee members should listen more to public input and share feedback with the broader Council. He also recommended promoting committee meetings more effectively to increase public attendance, as many decisions are made before they reach the City Council, leaving little room for change. Additionally, he suggested displaying photos of committee members for better public recognition and rotating committee members to bring in fresh perspectives.

Yolanda Harrison expressed her appreciation for the council members considering the creation of senior community apartments. She criticized the senior committee, stating it seems designed to silence seniors, as it meets infrequently and lacks power or a quorum. She urged the council members to make appointments to the committee to strengthen it, emphasizing the importance of support for seniors, even though she is not a senior yet.

Mayor Fred Jung announced several appointments:

•  Greg Sebourn to the Infrastructure and Natural Resources Advisory Committee
•  Joseph Kim to the Parks and Recreation Commission,
• reappointment for Arnel Dino (Planning Commission),
• Sharon Nelson (Senior Advisory Committee),
• David De Leon (Transportation and Circulation Committee).

Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shana Charles appointed:

• Greg Sarvas to the Infrastructure and Natural Resources Advisory Committee, confirming that there is no conflict of interest with his wife, Jennifer Sarvas, serving on the Library Board of Trustees.

Council Member Nick Dunlap reappointed his appointees and appointed:

• Eric Wayne (Planning Commission),
• Doug McHenry (Parks and Recreation),
• Joshua Dale (Library),
• Charles Sargent (Environmental Commission).

Council Member Jamie Valencia made her appointments:

• Manish Baraja (Infrastructure),
• Lisa Wozab (Library),
• Leonel Talavera (Parks and Recreation),
• Oscar Valdez (Planning),
• Chris Norby (Senior Committee).

Council Member Ahmad Zahra appointed:

• Steven Sherry to the Transportation and Circulation Commission
• Adrian Meza to the Planning Commission.

City Representation: Regional Advisory Body Appointments

There are three appointments to be made:

1. Orange County Sanitation District Board: This position has no specific term and must be filled by a council member. Mayor Jung nominated Councilmember Jamie Valencia for this role, which was approved with a vote of 4 to 1, with Zahra voting no.

2. Orange County Water District Representative: This position carries a four-year term ending on December 28th. Councilmember Jamie Valencia nominated Mayor Jung for this position. Mayor Pro Tem Shana Charles nominated herself. Jung won by a margin of 3 to 2 in the vote, with Charles and Zahra voting for Charles.  Mayor Pro Tem Charles offered to attend if the Mayor cannot attend.

3. Investment Advisory Committee: Mayor Jung nominated Mayor Pro Tem Charles for this role, which was approved unanimously. Mayor Fred Jung will serve as the alternate representative.