Agenda packet — Capitola City Council, January 16, 2025

REVISED 1/16/2025 4:00 PM
City of Capitola
Special City Council Meeting Agenda
Thursday, January 16, 2025 – 5:30 PM
City Council Chambers
420 Capitola Avenue, Capitola, CA 95010
Mayor: Vacant
Vice Mayor: Joe Clarke
Council Members: Gerry Jensen, Melinda Orbach, Alexander Pedersen Special Meeting of the Capitola City Council – 5:30 PM
All correspondence received prior to 5:00 p.m. on the Wednesday preceding a Council Meeting will be distributed to Councilmembers to review prior to the meeting. Information submitted after 5 p.m. on that Wednesday may not have time to reach Councilmembers, nor be read by them prior to consideration of an item.

1. Roll Call and Pledge of Allegiance
Council Members Gerry Jensen, Melinda Orbach, Alexander Pedersen, and Vice Mayor Joe Clarke.

2. Additions and Deletions to the Agenda

3. Additional Materials
Additional information submitted to the City after distribution of the agenda packet.

A. Item 6A - Correspondence Received
B. Item 6B - Correspondence Received
C. Item 6C - Correspondence Received
D. Item 6D - Correspondence Received & One Application Withdrawn

4. Oral Communications by Members of the Public
Oral Communications allows time for members of the Public to address the City Council on any “Consent Item” on tonight’s agenda, or on any topic within the jurisdiction of the City that is not on the “General Government/Public Hearings” section of the Agenda. Members of the public may speak for up to three minutes, unless otherwise specified by the Mayor. Individuals may not speak more than once during Oral Communications. All speakers must address the entire legislative body and will not be permitted to engage in dialogue. A maximum of 30 minutes is set aside for Oral Communications.

5. Staff / City Council Comments
Comments are limited to three minutes.

6. General Government / Public Hearings
All items listed in “General Government / Public Hearings” are intended to provide an opportunity for public discussion of each item listed. The following procedure pertains to each General Government item: 1) Staff explanation; 2) Council questions; 3) Public comment; 4) Council deliberation; 5) Decision.
1 Special City Council Meeting Agenda – January 16, 2025 City of Capitola Page 2
A. Appointment to Vacant City Council Seat
Recommended Action: Receive a report regarding the interview process to fill the City Council vacancy and consider rescheduling the interviews to January 27, 2025.

B. City Council Reorganization for 2025
Recommended Action: Nominate and appoint a new Mayor and Vice-Mayor.

C. City Council Representation on Regional Boards & City Advisory Bodies Recommended Action: Review nominations for City Council representatives on regional boards for the City Selection Committee meeting on January 27, 2025; review appointments of City Council representatives on regional boards and committees and City advisory bodies.

D. City Council Appointments to City Advisory Bodies
Recommended Action: Appoint members of the public to the City of Capitola’s Art and Cultural Commission, Commission on the Environment, Finance Advisory Committee, and Historical Museum Board; appoint a member of the public as an alternate to the Santa Cruz County Regional Transportation Commission Bicycle Advisory Committee.

7. Closed Session
Closed Sessions are not open to the public and held only on specific topics allowed by State Law (noticed below). An announcement regarding the items to be discussed in Closed Session will be made in the City Hall Council Chambers prior to the Closed Session. Members of the public may, at this time, address the City Council on closed session items only. There will be a report of any final decisions in City Council Chambers during the Open Session Meeting. i. CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL - ANTICIPATED LITIGATION Significant Exposure to Litigation Pursuant to Govt. Code § 54956.9(d)(2) One Case

8. Report on Closed Session

9. Adjournment - The next regularly scheduled City Council meeting is on January 30, 2025, at 6:00 PM.
_____________________________________________________
How to View the Meeting
Meetings are open to the public for in-person attendance at the Capitola City Council Chambers located at 420 Capitola Avenue, Capitola, California, 95010.

Other ways to Watch:

Spectrum Cable Television channel 8
City of Capitola, California YouTube Channel
To Join Zoom Application or Call in to Zoom:

Meeting
link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83328173113?pwd=aVRwcWN3RU03Zzc2dkNpQzRWVXAydz09 Or dial one of these phone numbers: 1 (669) 900 6833, 1 (408) 638 0968, 1 (346) 248 7799 Meeting ID: 833 2817 3113
Meeting Passcode: 678550
How to Provide Comments to the City Council
Members of the public may provide public comments to the City Council in-person during the meeting.

If you are unable to attend in-person, please email your comments to [email protected] and 2 Special City Council Meeting Agenda – January 16, 2025 City of Capitola Page 3
they will be included as a part of the record for the meeting. Please be aware that the City Council will not accept comments via Zoom.

Notice regarding City Council: The City Council meets on the 2nd and 4th Thursday of each month at 6:00 p.m. in the City Hall Council Chambers located at 420 Capitola Avenue, Capitola.

Agenda and Agenda Packet Materials: The City Council Agenda and the complete Agenda Packet are available for review on the City’s website and at Capitola City Hall prior to the meeting. Need more information? Contact the City Clerk’s office at 831-475-7300.

Agenda Materials Distributed after Distribution of the Agenda Packet: Pursuant to Government Code §54957.5, materials related to an agenda item submitted after distribution of the agenda packet are available for public inspection at the Reception Office at City Hall, 420 Capitola Avenue, Capitola, California, during normal business hours.

Americans with Disabilities Act: Disability-related aids or services are available to enable persons with a disability to participate in this meeting consistent with the Federal Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990. Assisted listening devices are available for individuals with hearing impairments at the meeting in the City Council Chambers. Should you require special accommodations to participate in the meeting due to a disability, please contact the City Clerk’s office at least 24 hours in advance of the meeting at 831-475-7300. In an effort to accommodate individuals with environmental sensitivities, attendees are requested to refrain from wearing perfumes and other scented products.

Si desea asistir a esta reunión pública y necesita ayuda - como un intérprete de lenguaje de señas americano, español u otro equipo especial - favor de llamar al Departamento de la Secretaría de la Ciudad al 831-475-7300 al menos tres días antes para que podamos coordinar dicha asistencia especial o envié un correo electrónico a [email protected].

Televised Meetings: City Council meetings are cablecast “Live” on Charter Communications Cable TV Channel 8 and are recorded to be rebroadcasted at 8:00 a.m. on the Wednesday following the meetings and at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday following the first rebroadcast on Community Television of Santa Cruz County (Charter Channel 71 and Comcast Channel 25). Meetings are streamed “Live” on the City’s website by clicking on the Home Page link “Meeting Agendas/Videos.” Archived meetings can be viewed from the website at any time. 3 1
Gautho, Julia
From: John <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, January 14, 2025 8:04 PM
To: City Council; Gautho, Julia
Subject: Candidates Unable to Serve/ 1/16 Special Meetonv Follow Up Flag: Flag for follow up
Flag Status: Flagged
If you miss the interview you don’t get the job folks. One has to be realisƟc. If one candidate shows up and the other doesn’t you give the job to one who wants it enough to be present.

Margaux isn’t going to be coherent in 11 days no maƩer how much you prep her. She can’t even keep paradise from its steep decline. We can do beƩer.

Warmly JM
4 Item 3 A.
1 Gautho, Julia
From: [email protected]
Sent: Thursday, January 16, 2025 1:57 PM
To: City Council
Subject: Ms Morgan to fill empty seat
Follow Up Flag: Follow up
Flag Status: Flagged
I reiterate that Ms Morgan is the right choice for our city council.

The two candidates that are going to be question tonight have already been vetted and ran for a seat.

They both have answered many questions and attended many "meet and greets" throughout their campaign. Moving this decision from last week is only a waste of time.

Wasted time equals wasted money, as a city we cannot afford either.

Please do not make this a habit of how you as a council plan to do things. The council represents the people, the vote is counted.

Ms Morgan is the runner up and should fill the seat.

Heather
5 Item 3 A.
1 Gautho, Julia
From: Leslie Nielsen <[email protected]>
Sent: Wednesday, January 15, 2025 1:35 PM
To: Goldstein, Jamie ([email protected]); Gautho, Julia; City Council Subject: Jan 16 agenda comments
Follow Up Flag: Follow up
Flag Status: Flagged
Jamie, Julia and Council,
The agenda for the City Council Meeting tomorrow evening does not make sense.

As there are no minutes available for the 1/9/25 meeting, I re-watched the decision made at 2:31 on the recorded video by the council at the 1/9 meeting to defer items D, E, and F.

All 4 council members agreed that it was best to wait until a 5th member was sworn in to appoint positions defined in Items D, E and F.

A week later, we have agenda items B, C and D with recommended actions to nominate and appoint a mayor and vice mayor, review nominations and appointments for city council representation on regional boards and city advisory committees, and to appoint members to city advisory bodies.

However, Item 6A for tomorrow now suggests reviewing a process to interview candidates and suggests re-scheduling interviews to January 27th.

With Ms. Morgan unavailable to attend, it is clear the motion that passed last week cannot be executed tomorrow.

Therefore, the remaining agenda items if addressed will be in direct conflict to what the council agreed to do last week.

With the mayor position vacant, it is likely staff or the collective council set the agenda for tomorrow night.

I would like to see the council follow the established procedure for amending an agenda that is different than what was proposed and take a vote before the meeting starts to ensure they have all 4 changed their minds from last week and would like to go forward with nominations and appointments ahead of having the 5th member sworn in.

If the council has not changed their minds, can the City staff please cancel this meeting or refine the agenda to only the time sensitive appointments needed - eg. Arts and Culture commission. The public does not need to attend another poorly managed inefficient meeting.

If we have had time to reflect on last week's meeting, perhaps the first motion proposed last week to follow a swift and efficient community involved process to review applicants, create a short list to interview and appoint can also be brought back for discussion. Whoever is sworn in to this seat will have a far better chance of being successful and helpful to the community if they are not simply appointed by 4 people who are "new to all of this".

We have a lot of work to do. Let's mature this effort to be process v. people oriented, get a qualified candidate in the seat quickly, and eliminate the fodder for more "people drama". 6 Item 3 B.
2 Regards,
Leslie Nielsen
7 Item 3 B.
1 Gautho, Julia
From: Leslie Nielsen <[email protected]>
Sent: Wednesday, January 15, 2025 1:35 PM
To: Goldstein, Jamie ([email protected]); Gautho, Julia; City Council Subject: Jan 16 agenda comments
Follow Up Flag: Follow up
Flag Status: Flagged
Jamie, Julia and Council,
The agenda for the City Council Meeting tomorrow evening does not make sense.

As there are no minutes available for the 1/9/25 meeting, I re-watched the decision made at 2:31 on the recorded video by the council at the 1/9 meeting to defer items D, E, and F.

All 4 council members agreed that it was best to wait until a 5th member was sworn in to appoint positions defined in Items D, E and F.

However, Item 6A for tomorrow now suggests reviewing a process to interview candidates and suggests re-scheduling interviews to January 27th.

With Ms. Morgan unavailable to attend, it is clear the motion that passed last week cannot be executed tomorrow.

Therefore, the remaining agenda items if addressed will be in direct conflict to what the council agreed to do last week.

With the mayor position vacant, it is likely staff or the collective council set the agenda for tomorrow night.

We have a lot of work to do. Let's mature this effort to be process v. people oriented, get a qualified candidate in the seat quickly, and eliminate the fodder for more "people drama". 8 Item 3 C.
2 Regards,
Leslie Nielsen
9 Item 3 C.
1 Gautho, Julia
From: Leslie Nielsen <[email protected]>
Sent: Wednesday, January 15, 2025 1:35 PM
To: Goldstein, Jamie ([email protected]); Gautho, Julia; City Council Subject: Jan 16 agenda comments
Follow Up Flag: Follow up
Flag Status: Flagged
Jamie, Julia and Council,
The agenda for the City Council Meeting tomorrow evening does not make sense.

As there are no minutes available for the 1/9/25 meeting, I re-watched the decision made at 2:31 on the recorded video by the council at the 1/9 meeting to defer items D, E, and F.

All 4 council members agreed that it was best to wait until a 5th member was sworn in to appoint positions defined in Items D, E and F.

However, Item 6A for tomorrow now suggests reviewing a process to interview candidates and suggests re-scheduling interviews to January 27th.

With Ms. Morgan unavailable to attend, it is clear the motion that passed last week cannot be executed tomorrow.

Therefore, the remaining agenda items if addressed will be in direct conflict to what the council agreed to do last week.

With the mayor position vacant, it is likely staff or the collective council set the agenda for tomorrow night.

We have a lot of work to do. Let's mature this effort to be process v. people oriented, get a qualified candidate in the seat quickly, and eliminate the fodder for more "people drama". 10 Item 3 D.
2 Regards,
Leslie Nielsen
11 Item 3 D.
1 Gautho, Julia
From: Amanda Lee Dover <[email protected]>
Sent: Wednesday, January 15, 2025 4:19 PM
To: Gautho, Julia
Subject: Withdrawl from consideration for the Museum Board Follow Up Flag: Follow up
Flag Status: Flagged
Good afternoon Julia,
My name is Amanda Dover and I was informed that I needed to send you an email in regards to my withdrawal from consideration for the Capitola Museum Board. I am withdrawing because my work schedule has recently changed and conflicts with the board meeting times. I apologize and thank you for your time and consideration.

Have a wonderful evening.

Amanda Dover
408 892 2858
12 Item 3 D.

Capitola City Council
Agenda Report
Meeting: January 16, 2025
From: City Manager’s Department
Subject: Appointment to Vacant City Council Seat
Recommended Action: Receive a report regarding the interview process to fill the City Council vacancy and consider rescheduling the interviews to January 27, 2025.

Background: On January 3rd, Mayor Yvette Brooks announced her resignation from the City Council effective January 15, 2025. The requirements to fill a vacancy on City Council are defined by Government Code Section 36512.

Section 36512(b) states if a vacancy occurs in an elective office, the Council shall, within 60 days from the commencement of the vacancy, either call a special election to fill the vacancy or fill the vacancy by appointment.

At the January 9, 2025, meeting, the City Council declared a vacancy to fill Mayor Brooks’ City Council seat. The City Council directed staff to invite the two remaining candidates from the November 5, 2024, General Municipal Election, Enrique Dolmo Jr. and Margaux Morgan, to be interviewed on January 16, 2025.

Staff reached out to both candidates. Margaux Morgan was not available to attend the January 16th interview, due to a previously scheduled conflict.

Discussion: Staff recommends rescheduling the interviews to January 27, 2025, at 5:00 PM (or an alternate date) to allow for participation from both candidates. Originally, City Council was scheduled to hold a strategic planning workshop from 2-6 PM that day, however, due to the vacancy, Council may wish to repurpose that meeting date.

Staff will prepare potential questions for the City Council to use in the interviews based on suggested interview questions from individual Councilmembers, best practices, and legal review. The special meeting will include an opportunity for public comment. Staff recommends Council conclude that meeting by appointing one of the two candidates by a motion and vote and schedule the swearing-in ceremony for the January 30th regularly scheduled City Council meeting.

The Council must either appoint a successor to the vacant seat or call a special election no later than 60 days from the commencement of the vacancy, pursuant to Government Code Section 36512 (b). This appointment deadline is March 14, 2025, following the commencement of the vacancy on January 15, 2025.

Fiscal Impact: There would be no fiscal impact to appoint a replacement Councilmember to fill the vacancy. The current adopted budget does not include funding for a special election. Should Council direct staff to prepare documentation for such an election, staff would work with the County Clerk to determine estimated election costs and prepare a budget amendment.

Attachments: Public Comments (Received after publication of January 9th Agenda) Report Prepared By: Julia Gautho, City Clerk
Reviewed By: Samantha Zutler, City Attorney
Approved By: Jamie Goldstein, City Manager
13 Item 6 A.
1 Gautho, Julia
From: Brigitt Nelson <[email protected]>
Sent: Thursday, January 9, 2025 10:00 PM
To: City Council
Subject: Margaux Morgan for Council
Dear Capitola City Council,
With Mayor Brooks stepping down, I urge you to honor the runner up of the most recent election.

We should not spend City funds on a special election.

Please do not waste time on an application system and swiftly move forward with appointing Margaux Morgan to City Council.

Ms. Morgan has plenty of experience, has stood as Mayor during one of our most tumultuous years, even greeted and toured the President through our beloved city. She has knowledge of, and has been involved with the issues at hand and maintains great relationships with city staff, council, and the community.

Please do what is best for Capitola by supporting consistency, vision and loyalty to our city.

Sincerely,
Brigitt Nelson
Sent from my iPhone
14 Item 6 A.
1 Gautho, Julia
From: Sue Hart <[email protected]>
Sent: Friday, January 10, 2025 8:26 AM
To: City Council
Subject: City council appointment
Follow Up Flag: Flag for follow up
Flag Status: Flagged
> Dear Capitola City Council,
>
> With Mayor Brooks stepping down, I urge you to honor the runner up of the most recent elecƟon. >
> We should not spend City funds on a special elecƟon.
>
> Please do not waste Ɵme on an applicaƟon system and swiŌly move forward with appoinƟng Margaux Morgan to City Council.
>
> Ms. Morgan has plenty of experience, has stood as Mayor during one of our most tumultuous years, even greeted and toured the President through our beloved city. She has knowledge of, and has been involved with the issues at hand and maintains great relaƟonships with city staff, council, and the community. >
> Please do what is best for Capitola by supporƟng consistency, vision and loyalty to our city. >
> Sincerely,
Larry and Suzanne Hart
Capitola residents
Sent from my iPad
15 Item 6 A.

Outlook
For 1/16 special council mtg
From Michael routh <[email protected]>
Date Fri 1/10/2025 1:23 PM
To City Council <[email protected]>
1/10/25, 1:29 PM Mail - Gautho, Julia - Outlook
https://outlook.office365.com/mail/inbox/id/AAQkADA2ODFhY2Q0LTFkNGUtNDg4Zi1iODY4LTE5M2JiNDMxMTIwNAAQABV2CniG%2FiZOnIrXfZpinf… 1/3 16 Item 6 A.
1/10/25, 1:29 PM Mail - Gautho, Julia - Outlook
https://outlook.office365.com/mail/inbox/id/AAQkADA2ODFhY2Q0LTFkNGUtNDg4Zi1iODY4LTE5M2JiNDMxMTIwNAAQABV2CniG%2FiZOnIrXfZpinf… 2/3 17 Item 6 A.

Outlook
For 1/16 special council mtg
From Michael routh <[email protected]>
Date Fri 1/10/2025 1:29 PM
To City Council <[email protected]>
1/10/25, 1:29 PM Mail - Gautho, Julia - Outlook
https://outlook.office365.com/mail/inbox/id/AAQkADA2ODFhY2Q0LTFkNGUtNDg4Zi1iODY4LTE5M2JiNDMxMTIwNAAQADihhjzGdDtHnwyu5MQEAF… 1/3 19 Item 6 A.
1/10/25, 1:29 PM Mail - Gautho, Julia - Outlook
https://outlook.office365.com/mail/inbox/id/AAQkADA2ODFhY2Q0LTFkNGUtNDg4Zi1iODY4LTE5M2JiNDMxMTIwNAAQADihhjzGdDtHnwyu5MQEAF… 2/3 20 Item 6 A.

Sent from my iPhone
1/10/25, 1:29 PM Mail - Gautho, Julia - Outlook
https://outlook.office365.com/mail/inbox/id/AAQkADA2ODFhY2Q0LTFkNGUtNDg4Zi1iODY4LTE5M2JiNDMxMTIwNAAQADihhjzGdDtHnwyu5MQEAF… 3/3 21 Item 6 A.
1 Gautho, Julia
From: Kevin Maguire <[email protected]>
Sent: Friday, January 10, 2025 10:16 PM
To: City Council; Gautho, Julia; Woodmansee, Chloe; Goldstein, Jamie ([email protected])
Subject: (1/16/2025) 1/9/2025 8C. Process to Fill Vacant Council Seat Follow Up Flag: Follow up
Flag Status: Flagged
With the Special City Council meeting set for 1/16/2025.

Having Mr. Dolmo there, is this just a dog and pony show? Or will members of the council be openminded, and judge the two of them on the questions asked that night? It is pretty clear who Melina, Alexandria, and Barry Scott want to fill that seat.

The residents are asking for a fair and democratic process. Maybe having each council member rate Ms.

Morgan and Mr. Dolmo on their responses, and share why they gave those ratings live in the meeting, would make this session, these questions, a fair platform.

Incumbents typically win re-election 70-90% of the time, so for Ms. Morgan to not win one of the two seats, shows the will of the people. If she is selected, would she then be allowed to run for another full term?
Ms. Morgan, being a previous council member, obviously has more experience than Mr. Dolmo. In a few of the interviews, Ms. Morgan's greatest accomplishment was meeting the President! That says a lot about why she was not voted in. She couldn't give any positive, tangible examples of how she made Capitola better. Oh maybe one other, the flashing crosswalk by the Stockton bridge.

This appointment should be based on the Special Council Meeting, and how each answers those questions, how can we ensure this is a fair process? (we know its subjective, and bias will prevail, but please try to be open-minded!)
thank you
Kevin Maguire
Capitola since 1974'
22 Item 6 A.
1 Gautho, Julia
From: John <[email protected]>
Sent: Saturday, January 11, 2025 11:03 AM
To: City Council; Gautho, Julia; Goldstein, Jamie ([email protected]); Chris Neely Lookout; PK Hattis; Andrew Goldenkrantz; Barry Train dude Scott; Ortiz, Gayle ([email protected]); Westman, Nels ([email protected]) Subject: Special City Council Meeting 1/16/25
Follow Up Flag: Follow up
Flag Status: Flagged
Hello Neighbors
Melinda made clear she has the clarity of self to lead our council in a way unseen in generaƟons. I can’t be sad about this suspicion of mine proved true on the quick. If you pick Margaux, Melinda will solve problems I want solved (if she can keep her focus policy inward observing instead of performance outward gazing). Alex was put on council for so few reasons yet one of them was hopes we would be in such a situaƟon minus the resignaƟon/ with the leading state vs hyperlocal power blocs greatly weakened as Thursday night made public. This weakened was beyond my highest hopes and the two groups most opposed to me hyperlocally. Whatever else I am my product is excepƟonal.

Alex and Melinda. You will go for Margaux but if Gerry and Joe hold strong and vote for Enrique, and no one bends, then it is open applicaƟons which obviously would be my choice because what a blast that’ll be.

If one of you votes Enrique however, who leads the council is up for grabs, no easy shiŌ in power from YveƩe to a bloc or successor.

Enrique is a good human. He is earnest. He is eager. He, like me and you Melinda, is incorrupƟble in his truth, but like you Gerry wants to get along with everyone all the Ɵme. He is Hispanic and this maƩers in our 20% Hispanic populated city whose voice has tradiƟonally been silenced here for all the wrong reasons. He was more popular in 24 than 22. While Margaux was less popular in 24 than 20/ a clear indictment of the steep decline of our city the last 6 years.

Again. If Margaux is appointed. Congrats to the DCC, the YIMBY big box market rate developers, fossil fuel rail and the folks who love the idea of the trail being sharrows on Capitola and Monterey Aves AND I’m eager to watch you work and work with you every chance you give me Melinda.

I hope you focus on the present crises of housing, economic accessibility and safe/producƟve streets which solves so many problems in one go. Parking minimums are the silliest thing ever imo. Geƫng our HQT stop and corridor at the mall restored by AMBAG, that Kristen Brown removed as president in 2022, should be on the agenda in the sooner.

Missing middle housing through the gentle density of horizontal mulƟfamily an approach I think could be popular again here as it was for most of our city’s history unƟl very recently. And of course the big builds on arterials that pay for services, keep locals housed, and grow our community stronger. Never run into an all affordable build I didn’t love.

Gerry and Joe. Good luck guys. Alex and Melinda are much beƩer at Robert’s Rules let’s call it than you. Vote for Enrique.

Maybe you end up with an open applicaƟon process so many of your supporters are calling for.

Rail on the SC Branch Line is an albatross at the moment. Not forever. Barry is the state NEED director dude runs programs for kids like “the joy of fracking”. Pajaro mulƟmodal staƟon is what we will get. It’s amazing too. Watsonville will no longer be directed towards serving us. Other stark realiƟes in demographics and future economics already underway easy for the data driven to glean.
23 Item 6 A.
2 BeƩer to advocate for a real Metro bond in 2026 not the bare bones ‘we need to survive’ one being discussed. Capitola would also greatly benefit from an affordable housing bond like Fred is dreaming about in SC. Our revenue conƟnues to lose spending power. Our unfunded state liabiliƟes and increasing mandates are not within our means. We can’t just keep passing regressive sales taxes every 7 years. Growth is the firmament of Capitalism. Not markets. Growth.

Budgets are where our radical soluƟons lie. Never doubt it. I would have crushed the finance commiƩee. Numbers always been my cookie.

I can not stress enough how much fun this is. I love this place. Our city is for everyone.

Warmly JM
24 Item 6 A.
1 Gautho, Julia
From: Sue Kaufmann <[email protected]>
Sent: Sunday, January 12, 2025 6:00 PM
To: City Council
Subject: Margeaux Morgan is qualified for City Council
Follow Up Flag: Follow up
Flag Status: Flagged
Dear Capitola City Council,
I have lived, worked, dined, shopped and enjoy being with my many Capitola friends in our town. I have lived in Capitola since 1994 and my children and grandchildren grew up here.

Please appoint Margeaux Morgan to City Council. Ms. Morgan is more qualified and experienced. More Capitola voters voted for her. This past election Ms. Morgan received 1560 (29.16%) votes whereas the other candidate received 1430 (17.56%) votes.

There is no reason for a special election as it could cost our city over $55,000 and delay and cripple important city services and planning. Be fiscally responsible and don’t have a special election.

Sincerely,
Sue Kaufmann
404 El Salto Drive
Capitola, CA 95010

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25 Item 6 A.
1 Gautho, Julia
From: Paula Bradley <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, January 13, 2025 2:11 PM
To: City Council
Subject: Capitola City Council, Special Meeting, January 16, 2025 Public Comment Attachments: CC Mtg 1-16-25 letter Margaux.docx
Follow Up Flag: Follow up
Flag Status: Flagged
Please see attached letter.

Paula Bradley (she/her)
P. O. Box 1146 Capitola CA 95010
mobile (831) 345-5482
26 Item 6 A.

Capitola City Council, Special Meeting, January 16, 2025, Public Comment
Dear Capitola City Council,
Please consider appointing one of the two other election candidates, Margaux Morgan, or Enrique Dolmo as interim Council Member. Margaux is the logical choice as she has the four years’ experience on the Council and completed her term in good standing. She did a great job and there is no reason to bypass this candidate with the most votes in the recent election.

Do not delay or waste city funds on a special election (estimated $56,000, or more). These funds are not in the budget and are desperately needed for other city expenses. It would not be fiscally responsible to proceed with a special election and waste taxpayer’s money when there is an easy alternative to appoint. The City Council is allowed by law to do so and there is a viable candidate. If Margaux declines, then Enrique Dolmo could be considered as a second choice, but he has no experience with local government. A previous Council member might be a better choice but I am sure you will all do the right thing and appoint. We need someone with experience and we need the five Council members as four could dimmish the Council’s capacity to effectively conduct the city’s business.

I have read the multitude of letters for the last meeting by those opposing Margaux. Do not bow to those vocal few who oppose Margaux’s appointment due to their single-issue agenda (anti rail trail) is irrelevant to the circumstances and to the best interests of the City and the residents.

Please do what is best for Capitola and appoint Margaux Morgan as quickly as possible so we to move forward without delays, unnecessary costs, and disruption.

Sincerely,
Paula Bradley
Capitola resident
27 Item 6 A.
1 Gautho, Julia
From: John <[email protected]>
Sent: Sunday, January 12, 2025 11:22 AM
To: City Council
Subject: Last time we replaced a councillor
Follow Up Flag: Follow up
Flag Status: Flagged
Hello
Neighbors
Gayle OrƟz was appointed in 98ish. Gayle then ran for reelecƟon aŌer serving her term and won the 2000-2003 term.

With this in mind let’s not put any criteria on candidates not running for reelecƟon. PoliƟcians lie about running all the Ɵme. Gerry told me repeatedly he wasn’t running for council again, Alex told me he believed in inclusive communiƟes, YveƩe swore she would finish her term, and Kristen Brown sƟll claims she isn’t interested in any higher office but the one she is currently pursuing.

Precedent with Gayle shows a great councillor can come from the appointment process. Whoever we appoint should not be given condiƟons we didn’t put on Gayle in the same circumstance.

Warmly JM
28 Item 6 A.
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1 Gautho, Julia
From: carol morgan <[email protected]>
Sent: Wednesday, January 8, 2025 7:00 PM
To: City Council
Subject: best for Capitola
Dear Capitola City Council,
With Mayor Brooks stepping down, I urge you to honor the runner up of the most recent elecƟon.

We should not spend City funds on a special elecƟon.

Please do not waste Ɵme on an applicaƟon system and swiŌly move forward with appoinƟng Margaux Morgan to City Council.

Ms. Morgan has plenty of experience, has stood as Mayor during one of our most tumultuous years, even greeted and toured the President through our beloved city. She has knowledge of, and has been involved with the issues at hand and maintains great relaƟonships with city staff, council, and the community.

Please do what is best for Capitola by supporƟng consistency, vision and loyalty to our city.

Sincerely,
Carol Morgan
102
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57 Item 6 A.
1 Gautho, Julia
From: Hollis Snell <[email protected]>
Sent: Wednesday, January 8, 2025 7:30 PM
To: City Council
Subject: Margaux Morgan to City Council
Dear Capitola City Council,
With Mayor Brooks stepping down, I urge you to honor the runner up of the most recent election.

We should not spend City funds on a special election.

Please do not waste time on an application system and swiftly move forward with appointing Margaux Morgan to City Council.

Please do what is best for Capitola by supporting consistency, vision and loyalty to our city.

Sincerely,
Hollis Snell
103
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58 Item 6 A.
1 Gautho, Julia
From: Teri Snell <[email protected]>
Sent: Wednesday, January 8, 2025 7:33 PM
To: City Council
Subject: Mayor
Dear Capitola City Council,
With Mayor Brooks stepping down, I urge you to honor the runner up of the most recent election.

We should not spend City funds on a special election.

Please do not waste time on an application system and swiftly move forward with appointing Margaux Morgan to City Council.

Please do what is best for Capitola by supporting consistency, vision and loyalty to our city.

Sincerely, Teri Snell

104
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1 Gautho, Julia
From: Sheryl Coulston <[email protected]>
Sent: Wednesday, January 8, 2025 8:01 PM
To: City Council
Subject: Appoint Margaux Morgan to City Council
January 8, 2025
Dear Capitola City Council,
With Mayor Brooks stepping down, I urge you to honor the runner up of the most recent election.

We should not spend City funds on a special election.

Please do not waste time on an application system and swiftly move forward with appointing Margaux Morgan to City Council.

Please do what is best for Capitola by supporting consistency, vision and loyalty to our city.

Sincerely,
Sheryl Coulston
300 Plum St. #25
Capitola, CA 95010
831-227-9494
[email protected]
105
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60 Item 6 A.
1 Gautho, Julia
From: Bob Edgren <[email protected]>
Sent: Wednesday, January 8, 2025 8:05 PM
To: City Council
Subject: Thursday Meeting
Honorable Mayor and Council,
My apologies for this late letter. I hope it is recieved in time for the meeting.

Okay, my main concern lies in the State Mandated affordable housing act. I apologize for not being up on this. I do not believe I am th4 only one who is in the dark. I think we need to be brought up to date on this issue. Frankly, it is appalling how our Governor and state representatives can impose such a radical move on any city. This program would significantly change the lifestyle many of us have worked hard to accomplish. If I could make some suggestions and questions;

1. At this point in time, where does the city sit with these high density state mandates?

2. Has anyone in a city position opposed this act, or looked into opposing it? Are the council members aware of avenues to take to contest the act?

3. How about appointing a task force to keep abreast of this issue, one that could communicate with other cities, invite speakers, hold public hearings and so forth.

Okay, I many cities have been cold cocked by this measure and after reading some cities that oppose it, It's impressive to see the number of cities stand up and say no.

That's all I have to say about that.

Regarding the replacement of the vacant Council seat, there is a pool of potentials that could be called on. If any are interested, perhaps we could have a customary panel discussion. Anyone opposing high density housing has my backing. But some names to consider; Susan Westman
Mick Routh
Mike Termini
Jacques Bertrand
Sam Story
Bruce Arthur
Kirby Nicol
Regarding the fireworks.If someone could explain how the money in this works. How does anyone make money of fireworks. Is there money raised for a cause? Okay, thanks for your time to review these ideas.

Yours truly,
106
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2 Robert Edgren
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1 Gautho, Julia
From: [email protected]
Sent: Wednesday, January 8, 2025 11:50 PM
To: City Council
Subject: Replacing Mayor Brooks seat on city council
With Mayor Brooks moving on to her next opportunity it leaves a vacancy on our city council. Having had an election recently it gives us a perfect candidate to fill in the remaining two years. The runner up.

Ms Morgan has plenty of current experience and knowledge of our city. She stood strong as our Mayor during a very difficult time for Capitola. Margaux has served our council with grace and class.

I ask that our City Council and Staff waste no time or money on a special election or an application system.

Appointing Ms Morgan is the right and smart option in front of you.

Thank you
Heather OHara
20-year resident
108
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1 Gautho, Julia
From: Andrew Baumhardt <[email protected]>
Sent: Thursday, January 9, 2025 12:00 AM
To: City Council
Subject: Vacancy left by Mayor Brooks
I urge the Council and Staff to honor the latest election results by filling the seat with Ms Morgan.

Please do not waste money or time on special election or applications.

Margaux knowledge of our city and recent experience make her the perfect choice.

Thank you
Andrew Baumhardt
109
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1 Gautho, Julia
From: Mary Cahalen <[email protected]>
Sent: Thursday, January 9, 2025 6:48 AM
To: City Council
Subject: Resignation of Mayor Yvette Brooks
Dear Capitola City Council,
I am writing in regard to the recent resignation of Mayor Yvette Brooks. As I understand, the City Council has two options for filling the mayoral vacancy:

1. Calling a special election, which is estimated to cost the city approximately $80,000.

2. Appointing a Capitola resident to serve for the remainder of the mayor’s term.

Regarding the first option, I strongly believe that calling a special election would be an unnecessary and wasteful expenditure, particularly given the tightness of the city’s budget and the fact that a general election was held just two months ago. It seems inefficient to incur such significant costs when the community has already recently participated in the electoral process.

For the second option, I would like to express my strong support for appointing Margaux Morgan (Kaiser) to fill the mayoral vacancy. Having served a term on the City Council, Margaux has a solid understanding of the issues facing our city and would serve the residents of Capitola well. She has already demonstrated her commitment to the community, particularly in helping during the storms and with the Wharf. Furthermore, as the third-highest vote recipient in the recent election, she has the backing of a broad segment of the community, making her a logical and appropriate choice.

Additionally, I would like to make it clear that I am strongly opposed to the reappointment of former Mayor Kristen Brown to the City Council. Having completed two consecutive terms, Kristen is ineligible to serve another term under the City’s term limits. Appointing her would be in direct contradiction to the will of the voters, who established the term limit rule to ensure fresh perspectives and accountability on the Council.

In conclusion, I believe appointing Margaux Morgan is the best course of action for our community and would reflect the values of fiscal responsibility and respect for the electoral process.

If you have any questions or would like further input, I am happy to provide additional information.

Sincerely,
Mary Beth Cahalen
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1 Gautho, Julia
From: Kevin Zelver <[email protected]>
Sent: Thursday, January 9, 2025 7:39 AM
To: City Council
Subject: Margaux Morgan
Dear Capitola City Council,
With Mayor Brooks stepping down, I urge you to honor the runner up of the most recent election.

We should not spend City funds on a special election.

Please do not waste time on an application system and swiftly move forward with appointing Margaux Morgan to City Council.

Please do what is best for Capitola by supporting consistency, vision and loyalty to our city.

Sincerely,
Kevin Zelver
Santa Cruz County Resident
Sent from Yahoo Mail for iPhone
111
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1 Gautho, Julia
From: Neal Stokes <[email protected]>
Sent: Thursday, January 9, 2025 8:19 AM
To: City Council
Subject: Best for Capitola
Dear Capitola City Council,
With Mayor Brooks stepping down, I urge you to honor the runner up of the most recent elecƟon.

We should not spend City funds on a special elecƟon.

Please do not waste Ɵme on an applicaƟon system and swiŌly move forward with appoinƟng Margaux Morgan to City Council.

Ms. Morgan has plenty of experience, has stood as Mayor during one of our most tumultuous years, even greeted and toured the President through our beloved city. She has knowledge of, and has been involved with the issues at hand and maintains great relaƟonships with city staff, council, and the community.

Please do what is best for Capitola by supporƟng consistency, vision and loyalty to our city.

Sincerely,
Neal Stokes
Sent from my iPhone
112
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1 Gautho, Julia
From: Judy Garrison <[email protected]>
Sent: Thursday, January 9, 2025 9:45 AM
To: City Council
Subject: Margaux Morgan
Dear Capitola City Council,
With Mayor Brooks stepping down, I urge you to honor the runner up of the most recent election.

We should not spend City funds on a special election.

Please do not waste time on an application system and swiftly move forward with appointing Margaux Morgan to City Council.

Please do what is best for Capitola by supporting consistency, vision and loyalty to our city.

Sincerely,
Judy Garrison
113
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1 Gautho, Julia
From: Lori Mahan <[email protected]>
Sent: Thursday, January 9, 2025 1:04 PM
To: City Council
Subject: Margaux Morgan
Dear Capitola City Council,
With Mayor Brooks stepping down, I urge you to honor the runner up of the most recent election.

We should not spend City funds on a special election.

Please do not waste time on an application system and swiftly move forward with appointing Margaux Morgan to City Council.

Please do what is best for Capitola by supporting consistency, vision and loyalty to our city.

Sincerely,
Lori Mahan
504 Oak Drive
Capitola ca
114
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1 Gautho, Julia
From: robin elias <[email protected]>
Sent: Thursday, January 9, 2025 3:11 PM
To: City Council
Subject: City Council replacement
Dear Capitola City Council,
With Mayor Brooks stepping down, I urge you to honor the runner up of the most recent election.

We should not spend City funds on a special election.

Please do not waste time on an application system and swiftly move forward with appointing Margaux Morgan to City Council.

Please do what is best for Capitola by supporting consistency, vision and loyalty to our city.

Sincerely,
Robin Elias
115
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1 Gautho, Julia
From: Margaux Morgan <[email protected]>
Sent: Thursday, January 9, 2025 2:47 PM
To: City Council
Subject: Vacancy Letter of Intent
Dear Capitola City Council,
While it is the end of an era to see Mayor Brooks step down, I want to put forth my leƩer of intent to occupy the new vacant seat on Capitola City Council.

I would be honored to serve the City of Capitola for the next 2 years while the City works through this transiƟonal period.

I can provide some up to date leadership as I have been serving the city for the last four years.

During my term in office I worked well with my fellow council members and our city staff to complete many successful projects. Affordable housing projects, rebuilding and reopening of the Municipal Wharf, moving forward with our City’s strategic plan, passing measure Y to ensure the prosperity of our community, among many other things.

One of my main goals taking office was to have more community awareness, knowledge and engagement and I am seeing that come to fruiƟon as we navigate this transiƟon and I could not be more pleased.

I would be proud to assist this new council for the end of Mayor Brooks’ term, creaƟng space for more people to become informed, and up to date with upcoming decisions so that they may properly run for a seat on council in 2026.

Council, you have a hard decision ahead of you as to how to move forward and I will support your decision whatever it may be. Serving this beauƟful city is not easy, and you are never going to be able to please everyone at once, but I have faith you will do what is best for our community.

Please, if you have any quesƟons do not hesitate to reach out.

Best regards,
Margaux Morgan
Capitola City Mayor 2023
Sent from my iPhone
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From: [email protected]
Sent: Thursday, January 9, 2025 2:27 PM
To: City Council
Subject: Support for Margaux Morgan
I am writing to express my support for appointing Margaux Morgan to the council to serve the remainder of Yvette Brooks term. I have known Margaux for several years, and as some of you that served with her can attest, she is a smart, thoughtful, and dedicated person, whose experience on the council and as mayor, would be invaluable now. I also realize that there may be other former council members willing to take on this role, but I really think she brings a fresh perspective, and youthful energy, that will service our community best.

Sincerely,
Steve Olson
[email protected]
831.419.6142
www.linkedin.com/in/swolson
117
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1 Gautho, Julia
From: Daijaku <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, January 14, 2025 9:44 AM
To: City Council
Subject: New Council Member
Dear All,
Thank you for your work on behalf of our community. I learned that the vacant seat on the council will be appointed, and I understand the need to save funds. However, this removes the possibility of people making the choice. There are many important matters coming up that will impact us for years to come and I don't think this is the time to take short cuts in deciding who will make them.

I am particularly concerned that your decision lead you to choose the person who got the next largest number of votes.

What happened in the past election does not necessarily reflect what would happen in a new one. If, for example, someone, who might have considered running, saw that someone with their values is already running, they might very well decide to wait or not run at all. That does not mean they, or the voters in general, would support the person who got the next largest amount of votes. In fact that person may be just the voice they do not want on the council.

I think it very likely that Margaux Morgan was not elected, in part, because of a preference of the others, but also because sufficient numbers of people did not, and do not, agree with her positions. Please take that into account. If you are going to appoint anyone, I hope it will be a new voice.

Yours, Judith Kinst
73 Item 6 A.

CITY COUNCIL VACANCY
January 16, 2025 74
Item 6 A.

Background
 1/9/25: Mayor Brooks resignation, Council
discussed appointment process and directed staff to
invite 2 candidate from 11/2024 Election to be
interviewed on January 16th
75 Item 6 A.

Background
 One candidate not available 1/16
 Due to scheduling conflicts, staff was unable to find a time when everyone was available for a special
meeting
 Recommend holding the interviews during the 1/30
regular City Council meeting
76 Item 6 A.

Recommended Action
 Reschedule interviews to fill City Council vacancy
for the regular Council meeting scheduled for
January 30, 2025.
77 Item 6 A.

Capitola City Council
Agenda Report
Meeting: January 16, 2024
From: City Manager’s Department
Subject: City Council Reorganization for 2025
Recommended Action: Nominate and appoint a new Mayor and Vice-Mayor.

Background: With the resignation of Mayor Brooks, the City Council should select a new mayor and vicemayor by motion. At the January 9, 2025 City Council meeting this item was continued to this Special Meeting to allow a full Council to participate in the decision-making process for Mayor and Vice-Mayor.

This item could be continued to a future meeting when a full Council is established.

Capitola Municipal Code Section 2.04.150 states that each year, the City Council shall select a mayor and vice mayor. During years with a general election, such selection shall be made at the meeting during which election results are certified.

California Government Code Section 36802 defines the roles of the Mayor and Vice Mayor (Mayor Pro Tempore): “The mayor shall preside at the meetings of the council. If he or she is absent or unable to act, the mayor pro tempore shall serve until the mayor returns or is able to act. The mayor pro tempore has all of the powers and duties of the mayor.”
Attachments: Public Comments (Received After Publication of January 9th Agenda) Fiscal Impact: None.

Report Prepared By: Julia Gautho, City Clerk
Approved By: Jamie Goldstein, City Manager
78 Item 6 B.
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82 Item 6 B.

Capitola City Council
Agenda Report
Meeting: January 16, 2025
From: City Manager Department
Subject: City Council Representation on Regional Boards & City Advisory Bodies
Recommended Action: Review nominations for City Council representatives on regional boards for the City Selection Committee meeting on January 27, 2025; review appointments of City Council representatives on regional boards and committees and City advisory bodies.

Background: City Council Members sit on several County and Multi-Jurisdiction boards, of which certain appointments need to be reviewed and updated. With the resignation of Mayor Brooks, the City Council will need to review the nominations for appointment to regional boards and committees (Table 1). These nominations will be brought to the City Selection Committee meeting on January 27, 2025.

In addition to the nominations for the City Selection Committee meeting, staff recommends the City Council review Council representation on City advisory bodies to address vacancies created by Mayor Brooks’ resignation (Table 2).

In addition, staff recommends the Council review current County and regional board appointments (Attachment 1). Attachment 1 lists the current appointments, expiration dates, and groups that will be requiring appointments due to the City Council vacancy.

Discussion: Staff recommends Council review the following nominations for appointment to regional boards and committees before the City Selection Committee meeting on January 27, 2025.

Table 1: County/Multi-County and Regional Boards
Name of Board – Meeting
Information
Capitola Representative(s) Action Required
Central Coast Community Energy
Policy Board
(Meets: Meeting dates are variable,
virtual option in SC County)
Shared seat with Scotts Valley, Chosen
by City Selection, No Term Limits. Terms
last 2 years.

Yvette Brooks (Nomination Dec. 24,
as non-voting representative)
Optional. City Council may
nominate a member for City
Selection appointment as
non-voting member on Jan.
27, however voting position
is scheduled to rotate to
Scotts Valley
83 Item 6 C.

LAFCO (Local Agency Formation
Commission) ▲ ♦
(Meets: 1st Wednesday of each month
except for July, at 9 AM in the County
Board of Supervisors Chambers, 701
Ocean Street, Santa Cruz)
Share voting seat with Scotts Valley. Exofficio when not holding voting seat. 2- year terms. Capitola reassume voting
seat Jan 2025,
Yvette Brooks (Nomination Dec. 24)
Yes, nominate Councilmember
for City Selection appointment
on Jan. 27
Monterey Bay Unified Air Pollution
Control District (MBUAPCD)▲
(Meets: 3rd Wednesday of each
month at 1:30 PM at the District Office:
24580 Silver Cloud Ct., Monterey)
Chosen by Selection Committee, rotates
between all cities in County. Council
should review and recommend every 2
years.

Gerry Jensen (Nomination Dec. 24)
No, Councilmember Jensen is
current nominee
In addition to the City Selection Committee, staff recommends reviewing Council representatives on City advisory bodies.

Table 2: City Advisory Bodies
Name of Board – Meeting
Information
Council Representative(s) Action Required
Art and Cultural Commission Joe Clarke
Finance Advisory Committee Yvette Brooks
Alexander Pedersen
Yes, must replace Mayor
Brooks.

Commission on the Environment Melinda Orbach
Fiscal Impact: None.

Attachments:

1. County and Regional Board Appointments

2. Public Comments (Received After January 9th Agenda)
Report Prepared By: Julia Gautho, City Clerk
Approved By: Jamie Goldstein, City Manager
84 Item 6 C.
2025 COUNTY/MULTI-COUNTY BOARDS

CAPITOLA REPRESENTATIVES LIST
Name of Board – Meeting
Information
Capitola Representative(s) Action Required
Advisory Council of the Area
Agency on Aging -Seniors
Council of Santa Cruz & San
Benito Counties
(Meets: 2nd Wednesday of each
month except for August and
December, at 10 AM in Aptos)
No Alternate, No Term Limits.

Recommended to review appts.
every 2 years.
 Yvette Brooks (Appt. Jan. 24)
Yes, due to resignation of
Mayor Brooks.

Arts Council Santa Cruz County
(Meeting dates are variable;
Wednesdays 4:30-6:30 PM)
Not a dedicated Capitola seat
No Alternate. No Term Limits
 Roy Johnson (A&C) (Appt.

Jan. 24)
No
Association of Monterey Bay
Area Governments (AMBAG)
▲ ♦
(Meets: 2nd Wednesday of each
month at 6 PM in Monterey)
No Term Limits. Recommended to
review appts. every 2 years.
  Yvette Brooks (Appt. Dec.
24)
 Melinda Orbach (Alternate)
Yes, due to resignation of
Mayor Brooks.

Bicycle Advisory Committee of
the SCCRTC
(Santa Cruz County Regional
Transportation Commission)
2-year term, expires 2025
 Paula Bradley (Appt. Feb. 24)
Recruited through RTC, City Council
reviews applications and provides
nomination.

No
Capitola Community Safety
Foundation
No Alternate, No Term Limits, no
fixed term
 Joe Clarke (Appt. Dec. 24)
No.

Councilmember Jensen
currently serves on the
Foundation Board in a
personal capacity.

Central Coast Community
Energy Policy Board
(Meets: Meeting dates are variable,
virtual option in SC County)
Shared seat with Scotts Valley,
Chosen by City Selection, No Term
Limits. Terms last 2 years.
 Yvette Brooks (Appt. Dec. 22)
 Vacant (Alternate)
Yes, City Council may
nominate a member for City
Selection appointment on
Jan. 27
Community Action Board of
Santa Cruz County
(Meets: 3rd Wednesday of each
month at 6:15 PM)
2-year terms
 Alexander Pedersen (Appt.
2024)
The City Council may
choose to appoint a
member of the public to this
body.

Community Television of Santa
Cruz County Board of Directors
(Meets: Monthly at 5:30 PM)
 Chloe Woodmansee,
Assistant to the City Manager
No
85 Item 6 C.
2024 COUNTY/MULTI-COUNTY BOARDS CAPITOLA REPRESENTATIVES 2 Criminal Justice Council of Santa
Cruz County ♦
(Meets: Quarterly at 3 PM)
2 seats, 1 Council and 1 Council, CM,
or ACM
Review following seating of new
Council
 Joe Clarke (Appt. Dec 24)
 Gerry Jensen (Appt. Dec 24)
No.

Ex-officio when not holding voting
seat. 2-year terms. Capitola
reassume voting seat Jan 2025,
 Yvette Brooks (Appt. 2024)
currently ex-officio
Yes, nominate
Councilmember for City
Selection appointment on
Jan. 27
League of California Cities
(Meets: Monterey Bay Division
meets on the 1st Monday of every
other month at 7 PM at various
locations.)
Open to All Council Members No
Monterey Bay Unified Air
Pollution Control District
(MBUAPCD)▲
(Meets: 3rd Wednesday of each
month at 1:30 PM at the District
Office: 24580 Silver Cloud Ct.,
Monterey)
Chosen by Selection Committee,
rotates between all cities in County.

Council should review and
recommend every 2 years.
 Gerry Jensen (Nomination
Dec. 24)
Yes, nominate
Councilmember for City
Selection appointment on
Jan. 27
Santa Cruz County Children’s
Network
(Meets five times a year at noon in
the County Office of Education)
No Term Limits. Council should
review and recommend every 2
years.
 Yvette Brooks (Appt. 2019)
Yes, due to resignation of
Mayor Brooks.

Santa Cruz County Conference
& Visitors Council
(Meets: Last Wednesday at 3:00 PM
every other month except for
November when meeting is TBD, at
Goodwill Industries, 350 Encinal
Street, Santa Cruz)
Chosen by City Selection Committee,
rotates between Cap, Wat, SV. Council
should review and recommend every 2
years.

Not currently Capitola
No.
86 Item 6 C.
2024 COUNTY/MULTI-COUNTY BOARDS CAPITOLA REPRESENTATIVES 3 Santa Cruz County Flood
Control & Water
Conservation District, Zone 5
▲ ♦
(Meets: Quarterly on the 4th
Tuesday at 10 AM in the County
Board of Supervisors Chambers,
701 Ocean Street)
Council to review appointments
annually
 Joe Clarke (Appt. Dec. 24)
 Melinda Orbach (Alternate)
No.

Santa Cruz County Hazardous
Materials Advisory Commission
(Meets: 4th Wednesday of every
other month at 9 AM at Capitola
City Hall Community Room)
Four-year term expires in April 2027
 Nicholas Brown (Appt. Apr.
23)

No
Santa Cruz County Library
Financing Authority ♦
(Meets: Semi-annually, in January
and June, Main Library)
Council to review appointments
annually
 Melinda Orbach (Appt. Dec.
24)
 Joe Clarke (Alternate)
No.

Santa Cruz Public Libraries
Library Advisory Commission
(Meets: Monday evenings, various
branches)
4-year term, expires March 2027
 Mike Termini (Appt. Jan. 23)
Recruited through Library, City
Council reviews applications and
provides appointment.

No
Santa Cruz Public Libraries Joint
Powers Authority Board ▲
(LJPA)
(Meets: 1st Monday of each month
at 7:30 PM at the Main Library
Community Room)
City Manager is appointed by JPA
 Jamie Goldstein
No
Santa Cruz County Integrated
Waste Management Local Task
Force
(Meets: Quarterly)
 Erika Senyk (Appt. Dec. 24)
 Alexander Pedersen
(Alternate)
No.

Santa Cruz County Regional
Transportation Commission
(SCCRTC) ▲ ■
(Meets: 1st Thursday of each
month except for July, at 9 AM at
various locations)
No Term Limits. Council should
review and recommend every 2
years.
 Alexander Pedersen (Appt.

Dec. 24)
 Joe Clarke (Alternate)
No.
87 Item 6 C.
2024 COUNTY/MULTI-COUNTY BOARDS CAPITOLA REPRESENTATIVES 4 Santa Cruz County Sanitation
District ▲ ♦
(Meets: 1st & 3rd Thursday of each
month at 4:45 PM at the East Cliff
Pumping Station on Lode St., Santa
Cruz)
Council to review appointments
annually
 Joe Clarke (Appt. Dec. 24)
 Gerry Jensen (Alternate)
No.

Santa Cruz Metropolitan Transit
District Board ▲ ■
(Meets: 3rd Friday of each month
at 8:15 AM at various locations)
Four-year term, expires December
31, 2028
 Melinda Orbach (Appt. Dec.
24)
 Alexander Pedersen
(alternate)
No.

Santa Cruz Regional 911
Board▲
(Meets: Every other month at 1:30
PM)
City Manager is appointed
 Jamie Goldstein, City
Manager
No
Housing for Health Partnership
Policy Board
Two-year term, rotates with Scotts
Valley, term expires Fall 2026
Not currently Capitola
No
Santa Cruz County Animal
Services Agency
Chief Ryan No
▲ = Members are required to File Statements of Economic Interest, Form 700 ■ = Members are required to complete AB 1234 Ethics Training ♦ = Council Member appointment required
Revised: 12/30/2024 JG
88 Item 6 C.
122
Item 4 E.
89 Item 6 C.
123
Item 4 E.
90 Item 6 C.
124
Item 4 E.
91 Item 6 C.
125
Item 4 E.
92 Item 6 C.
126
Item 4 E.
93 Item 6 C.

J A N U A RY 1 6 , 2 0 2 4
94 Item 6 C.

STAFF RECOMMENDS CITY COUNCIL:
• Review nominations for City Council representatives on regional boards for the City Selection Committee meeting on January 27, 2025.
95 Item 6 C.

COUNTY & MULTI-JURISDICTIONAL
BOARDS:
• The City of Capitola is represented on various MultiJurisdictional advisory bodies by members of City Council.

These boards/committees are established by other codes
or bylaws.
• Certain of these boards require appointment by the City Selection Committee; Capitola City Council may provide
nominations.
96 Item 6 C.

Name of Board – Meeting Capitola Representative(s) Action Required Information
Optional. City Council may nominate
a member for City Selection
appointment as non-voting member
on Jan. 27, however voting position is
scheduled to rotate to Scotts Valley
Shared seat with Scotts Valley, Chosen by City
Selection, No Term Limits. Terms last 2 years.

Yvette Brooks (Nomination Dec. 24, as non-voting
representative)
Central Coast Community Energy (3CE)
Policy Board
(Meets: Meeting dates are variable, virtual option in
SC County)
Yes, nominate Councilmember for
City Selection appointment on Jan. 27
Share voting seat with Scotts Valley. Ex-officio
when not holding voting seat. 2-year terms.

Capitola reassume voting seat Jan 2025.

Yvette Brooks (Nomination Dec. 24)
LAFCO (Local Agency Formation
Commission) ▲
(Meets: 1st Wednesday of each month except for
July, at 9 AM in the County Board of Supervisors
Chambers, 701 Ocean Street, Santa Cruz)
No, Councilmember Jensen is current
nominee
Chosen by Selection Committee, rotates
between all cities in County. Council should
review and recommend every 2 years
Gerry Jensen (Nomination Dec. 24)
Monterey Bay Unified Air Pollution Control
District (MBUAPCD)▲
(Meets: 3rd Wednesday of each month at 1:30 PM
at the District Office: 24580 Silver Cloud Ct.,
Monterey)
97 Item 6 C.

Capitola City Council
Agenda Report
Meeting: January 16, 2025
From: City Manager Department
Subject: City Council Appointments to City Advisory Bodies Recommended Action: Appoint members of the public to the City of Capitola’s Art and Cultural Commission, Commission on the Environment, Finance Advisory Committee, and Historical Museum Board; appoint a member of the public as an alternate to the Santa Cruz County Regional Transportation Commission Bicycle Advisory Committee.

Background: At the City Council meeting on January 9, 2025, Council continued this item due to the vacancy created by former Mayor Brooks’ resignation from Council. Due to upcoming meeting schedules, staff recommends Council consider appointing representatives to City Boards and Commissions, most particularly Art and Cultural. Council could leave some appointments vacant at this time and could consider finalizing the appointment process once a replacement Councilmember is established.

Members of the public are appointed to serve in a voluntary capacity on the City’s advisory bodies for terms, some of which expired in December 2024. This necessitates that the Council make reappointments or new appointments for the next term.

Applications for membership on advisory bodies are accepted year-round and are valid for one year.

Members who are currently serving on advisory bodies were notified of their term expiration and invited to reapply to be reappointed.

As a part of the advisory body appointment process, staff published a regular vacancy notice on the City website and through social media, and an unscheduled vacancy notice in the Santa Cruz Sentinel.

Discussion: Each of the City’s advisory bodies is governed by relevant bylaws, which outline information about the appointment process of the group. More information concerning each group is listed below.

Attachment 1 outlines the current composition of each group, applicants seeking reappointment, new applicants, and the next meeting date for all groups with current vacancies. Attachment 2 includes a link to all applications for appointment or reappointment on file with the City Clerk’s office received on or before the printing of this agenda packet.

In January, the Art and Cultural Commission is scheduled to meet on January 14 and the Commission on the Environment on January 15. The Finance Advisory Committee and Museum Board are not scheduled to meet in January.

Art and Cultural Commission: The Art and Cultural Commission (Commission) was originally established in 1997 and advises the City Council as to the allocation of public funds for the support and encouragement of existing and new programs in the arts, and for the acquisition of works of art, and to enhance the cultural climate of the City and foster public interest in the arts. Commission Bylaws (Resolution No. 3326) state that the Commission is composed of nine members: one City Council Member (Vice Mayor Clarke), one Planning Commissioner [respectively chosen by a majority vote of each body], one artist or arts organization representative, one arts professional, and five at-large members. The Bylaws state that the Commission must review applications and provide a recommendation to the City Council for appointment. There are currently fifteen applications on file. In addition to the reappointment of returning commissioners, the Commission has recommended the appointment of Roy Holmberg (artist), Tara Hunt, Jill Payonzeck Lengre, Esther Sylvan, Karin Anderson, Thomas Pederson, Kristina McCann and Helynne Nourishad.

Commission on the Environment: The Commission on the Environment (COE) was originally established in 2005 and provides advice and recommendations to the City Council on policy and funding matters 98 Item 6 D.
relating to sustainability, environmental protection, climate action plan implementation and resource enhancement which benefit the City. COE Bylaws (Resolution No. 4373) state that the COE is composed of five members: a member of the City Council and four members appointed by the four City Council members who do not serve on the COE. On December 12, 2024, the City Council appointed Melinda Orbach to serve as the City Council representative. There are currently six applications on file.

Finance Advisory Committee: The Finance Advisory Committee (FAC) was originally established in 2000 and advises the City Council on financial matters pertaining to the governing of the City, as well as on the use of fiscal resources. FAC Bylaws (Resolution No. 4365) state that the FAC is composed of seven or eight members: the Mayor, the Vice Mayor, three at-large members appointed by the City Council, and one or two business representatives recommended by the Chamber of Commerce and appointed by the City Council. On December 12, 2024, the City Council appointed Mayor Brooks and Councilmember Pedersen to serve as Council representatives to the FAC. There are nine applications on file.

Historical Museum Board: The Historical Museum Board (Board) was originally established in 1992 and promotes a program that will bring about better understanding and appreciation by the Capitola community of its history, architecture, culture, technology, and its creative and natural environments.

Board Bylaws (Resolution No. 4099) state that the Board is composed of seven members. The Bylaws state that the Commission must review applications and provide a recommendation to the City Council for appointment. There is one unscheduled vacancy and there are currently two applications on file. The Board has not made any recommendations at this time.

Santa Cruz County Regional Transportation Commission (RTC) Bicycle Advisory Committee: The RTC Bicycle Advisory Committee currently has one Capitola representative on it (Paula Bradley). The RTC received an application for another Capitola resident to serve as an alternate (Attachment 3). The City Council may vote to appoint Christopher O’Connell as an alternate to the RTC Bicycle Advisory Committee.

Fiscal Impact: None.

Attachments:

1. Advisory Body Composition

2. Advisory Group Applications:
https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/fz7gttmk1ubx1tal7icwa/ABeBTms6StmusROjybP57s?rlkey=b5wxl9umzysyfo0ur1512stih&st=cr2mrnbu&dl=0

3. Public Comments (Received After Publication of January 9th Agenda) Report Prepared By: Julia Gautho, City Clerk
Approved By: Jamie Goldstein, City Manager
99 Item 6 D.

Updated 12-16-2024
Capitola City Council
Attachment to Agenda Report
Meeting: January 9, 2025
From: City Manager Department
Subject: Appointments to City Advisory Bodies – Attachment 1 Arts & Cultural Commission
The Arts and Cultural Commission is composed of 5 “at large” members, 1 artist, and 1 art professional. These members each serve a two-year term. The Commission also has one representative from the Planning Commission and one representative from the City Council. The next meeting of the Commission is January 14th, 2025.

Commissioner Name Appointed Date Term Expiration
Council Member Clarke 12/12/2024 12/31/2026
Courtney Christiansen (Planning
Commission Representative)
12/8/2022 12/31/2024
Mario Beltramo (At Large) 9/14/2023 12/31/2024
Jennifer Pepiot (nee Major) (At
Large)
7/27/2023 12/31/2024 Seeking
Reappointment
Mary Beth Cahalen (At Large) 12/8/2022 12/31/2024 Seeking Reappointment
Laurie Hill (At Large) 1/27/2022 12/31/2024 Seeking
Reappointment
James Wallace (At Large) 1/27/2022 12/31/2024 Seeking
Reappointment
Roy Johnson (Art Professional) 1/12/2023 12/31/2024 Seeking Reappointment
Vacant (Artist) N/A N/A
Jill Payonzeck Lengre (At Large) N/A N/A New Applicant
John Mulry (Artist and At Large) N/A N/A New Applicant
Karin Anderson (At Large) N/A N/A New Applicant
Kristina McCann (At Large) N/A N/A New Applicant
Roy Holmberg (Artist) N/A N/A New Applicant
Tara Hunt (At Large) N/A N/A New Applicant
Esther Sylvan (At Large) N/A N/A New Applicant
Helynne Nourishad (Artist, Arts
Pro., At Large)
N/A N/A New Applicant
Thomas Pedersen (Artist, Arts Pro.,
At Large)
N/A N/A New Applicant
100
Item 6 D.

Commission on the Environment
The Commission on the Environment is composed of 4 members, each appointed by a City Council Member, and one City Council representative. These members each serve a two-year term. The Commission also has one representative from the City Council. The next meeting of the Commission January 15th, 2025.

Commissioner Name Appointed Date Term Expiration
Council Member Orbach 12/12/2024 12/31/2026
Jason Shepardson (Brown) 3/24/2022 12/31/2024
Peter Wilk (Pedersen) 1/12/2023 12/31/2024
Anthony Lacenere (Clarke) 1/12/2023 12/31/2024 Seeking
Reappointment
Michelle Beritzhoff-Law (Brooks) 1/12/2023 12/31/2024 Seeking Reappointment
Dennis Norton N/A N/A New Applicant
Michael Maroney N/A N/A New Applicant
Neal Savage N/A N/A New Applicant
John Mulry N/A N/A New Applicant
101
Item 6 D.

Finance Advisory Committee
The Finance Advisory Committee is composed of 3 members appointed by the City Council and two business representatives who are nominated by the Capitola Chamber of Commerce and appointed by the City Council. These members each serve a two-year term. The Commission also has two representatives from the City Council. The next meeting of the Commission is February 18th, 2025.

Commissioner Name Appointed Date Term Expiration
Mayor Brooks 12/12/2024 12/31/2026
Council Member Pedersen 12/12/2024 12/31/2026
Laura Alioto (Clarke) 1/12/2023 12/31/2024
Anthony Rovai (Keiser) 1/12/2023 12/31/2024 Seeking
Reappointment
Michelle Coffman (Brooks) 1/12/2023 12/31/2024 Seeking
Reappointment
Anthony Guajardo (Business Rep.) 6/27/2024 12/31/2024 Seeking Reappointment
Matt Arthur (Business Rep.) 6/27/2024 12/31/2024 Seeking Reappointment
Leslie Nielsen (Business Rep.) N/A N/A New Applicant
Keith Cahalen (At Large) N/A N/A New Applicant
John Mulry (Business Rep. and At
Large)
N/A N/A New Applicant
Emeline Nguyen (At Large) N/A N/A New Applicant
Daniel Castagnola (Business Rep.) N/A N/A New Applicant 102
Item 6 D.

Historical Museum Board
The Historical Museum Board is composed of 7 members. These members each serve a threeyear term. The next meeting of the Commission is February 6th, 2025.

Commissioner Name Appointed Date Term Expiration
Emmy Mitchell-Lynn (President) 6/9/2022 6/30/2025
Roger Wyant (Vice President) 7/25/2024 6/30/2027
Gordon van Zuiden 6/9/2022 6/30/2025
Enrique Dolmo 1/12/2023 6/30/2025
Antonia Alldredge 7/25/2024 6/30/2027
Brian Legakis 7/25/2024 6/30/2027
Vacant 8/25/2022 6/30/2025
Amanda Dover N/A N/A New Applicant
Helynne Nourishad N/A N/A New Applicant
Key
Applicants Seeking Reappointment
Applicants Leaving Office (Not Reapplying)
New Applicants
City Council Representatives
103
Item 6 D.
104
Item 6 D.
105
Item 6 D.
106
Item 6 D.
1 Gautho, Julia
From: John <[email protected]>
Sent: Friday, January 10, 2025 2:16 PM
To: City Council; Gautho, Julia
Subject: Regarding Appointments
Hello Neighbors
I heard menƟon at last nights meeƟng that the Commission on the Environment hasn’t had a quorum last few months. I applied and will aƩend the meeƟngs with my constant focus on budgets, economic accessibility, quality of life and the rest of my brand always prioriƟzing neighbors and community over cars. Housing of the kind we are missing especially horizontal and gentle density incrementally in our communiƟes like we used to have tradiƟonally, and sƟll do in my neighborhood thankfully. Dense housing on arterials with connected and protected bike lanes and robust public transit.

Less parking more people. I wax on. I specialized in poetry in college. I’m such an odd lad. I play nice with others in person as you all know. Do it. Another fun fact. All 4 of you have been to my house. One of even had dinner over with their partner. I’ve been in one of your houses for drinks. Only Melinda didn’t sit at my table because we walked.

We need me here. People like me are ever the drivers of progress. Behaviorism is real. God laughed and the world was made.

Grace and Peace JM
107
Item 6 D.

J A N U A RY 1 6 , 2 0 2 4
108
Item 6 D.

STAFF RECOMMENDS:
• Appoint members of the public to the City of Capitola’s Art and Cultural Commission, Commission on the Environment, Finance Advisory Committee, and Historical Museum Board.
• Due to upcoming meeting schedules, staff recommends Council appoint representatives to City Boards and Commissions, most particularly Art and Cultural. Council could leave some appointments vacant at this time and could consider finalizing the appointment process once a replacement Councilmember is established.
109
Item 6 D.

BACKGROUND
• Members of the public are appointed to serve in a
voluntary capacity on the City’s Advisory bodies for terms, some of which expired in December 2024. This
necessitates that the Council make reappointments, or
new appointments for the next term.
110
Item 6 D.

ART AND CULTURAL COMMISSION:
• Arts and Cultural Commission is composed of 5 “at large” members, 1 artist, and 1 art professional. The Commission also has one rep from the Planning Commission and one rep from the City Council.
• These members each serve a two-year term, with terms
expiring December 2026.
• Next meeting is January 21st, 2025.
111
Item 6 D.

ART AND CULTURAL COMMISSION APPOINTMENTS:

Seat Appointee
Council Representative Clarke
Planning Commission Representative Appointed by the Planning Commission At Large
At Large
At Large
At Large
At Large
Artist
Art Professional
112
Item 6 D.

COMMISSION ON THE ENVIRONMENT:
• The Commission on the Environment is composed of 4 members, each appointed by a City Council Member, and one City Council Representative.
• These members each serve a two-year term, with terms expiring December 2026.
• The next meeting of the Commission is January 15th, 2025. 113
Item 6 D.

COMMISSION ON THE ENVIRONMENT APPOINTMENTS:

Seat Appointee
Council Representative Orbach
(TBD) Appointee
Clarke Appointee
Jensen Appointee
Pedersen Appointee
114
Item 6 D.

FINANCE ADVISORY COMMITTEE:
• The Finance Advisory Committee is composed of 3 members appointed by the City Council and 2 business representatives who are nominated by the Capitola Chamber of Commerce and appointed by the City Council. The Committee also has two representatives from the City Council.
• These members each serve a two-year term, expiring December 2026. • Next meeting of Committee is February 18th, 2025.
115
Item 6 D.

FINANCE ADVISORY COMMITTEE APPOINTMENTS:

Seat Appointee
Council Representative Brooks (TBD)
Council Representative Pedersen
Regular
Regular
Regular
Business Representative
Business Representative
116
Item 6 D.

HISTORICAL MUSEUM BOARD:
• The Historical Museum Board is composed of 7 members. These members each serve a three-year term, expiring June 2027. • The next meeting is of the Board is February 6th, 2025. There is one unscheduled vacancy which necessitates an appointment, the term will expire June 30th, 2025.
117
Item 6 D.

Capitola City CouncilJanuary 16, 2025

Capitola City Council
January 16, 2025