CA Review CKM
Meeting Date: July 29, 2025
To: Mayor and City Council
From: Geoff Patnoe, City Manager
Staff Contact: Morgen Fry, Assistant City Clerk
[email protected], 442-339-2819
Subject: Mayoral Appointment of Two Members to the Housing Commission
Districts: All
Recommended Actions
1) Adopt a resolution appointing one member to the Housing Commission – Rental Assistance – General.
2) Adopt a resolution appointing one member to the Housing Commission – Member At- Large.
Executive Summary
The City Council is being asked to appoint two members to the Housing Commission. The Housing Commission may make recommendations to the Community Development Commission and/or the City Council on matters pertaining to:
• Establishment of, or amendment of, affordable housing programs, policies and regulations
• Adoption of, or amendments to, the General Plan Housing Element, and related strategies or programs
• Review of project concept and affordability objectives of off-site combined projects as defined by Chapter 21.85 of the Carlsbad Municipal Code, and located outside of the Master Plan area, specific plan area, or subdivision that has the inclusionary housing requirement
• Requests for financial assistance and/or other incentives for the development of affordable housing projects
• Requests to sell or purchase affordable housing credits for transactions/purchases of 10 credits or more to satisfy inclusionary housing obligations • Establishment of, or amendment of programs and services that aim to prevent, reduce and manage homelessness in Carlsbad
• Other special assignments, as requested by the City Council and/or Community Development Commission, related to the development of affordable housing
July 29, 2025
Item #12 Page 1 of 15
Docusign Envelope ID: DDBF59A2-2F54-4AA5-9C1E-767EE6C3F33D The Housing Commission consists of five members appointed by the Mayor and confirmed by the City Council. Members must be residents of Carlsbad, registered voters, and normally serve four-year terms, unless appointed to fill an unexpired term.
The vacancies consist of the following categories:
One vacancy: Member At-Large
One vacancy: Rental Assistance (General)
Explanation & Analysis
Commissioner Christopher Shayne Horton was appointed to the Housing Commission in November 2023 to fill the expired term of Commissioner Marissa Cortez-Torres for a term ending July 2025. Commissioner Horton is eligible for and seeking reappointment.
Commissioner Chih-Wu Chang was appointed to the Housing Commission in September 2023 to fill the expired term of Commissioner Allen Manzano for a term ending July 2025.
Commissioner Chang is eligible for and seeking reappointment.
The City Clerk’s Office received 12 applications from residents wishing to serve on the Housing Commission. In keeping with City Council Policy No. 88, the Mayor has chosen the following applicants to advance in the process and interview with the full City Council:
• Christopher Shayne Horton – District 1 (Rental Assistance - General, seeking reappointment)
• Chih-Wu Chang – District 3 (Member At-Large, seeking reappointment) Exhibit 3 contains the applications of the applicants moving forward in the interview process.
The Maddy Act (California Government Code Sections 54970-54974) requires that on or before December 31 of each year the legislative body must prepare a Local Appointments List, which contains the appointive terms of Board and Commission members that will expire in the next calendar year. The name of the incumbent appointee, the date of appointment and the term expiration date is also included on the list. Based on the prepared list, the City Clerk’s Office accepts applications (available on the city’s website and in the City Clerk’s Office) for any upcoming vacancies.
The current members of the Housing Commission are:
Commissioner District
Barbara Berger 2
Chih-Wu Chang 3
Tyler Collins 3
Christopher Shayne Horton 1
Michael Ydigoras 3
Members of the Housing Commission are subject to the provisions of California’s Political Reform Act of 1974 and must file statements of economic interest each year, complete ethics training and sexual harassment prevention training every two years.
July 29, 2025
Item #12 Page 2 of 15
Docusign Envelope ID: DDBF59A2-2F54-4AA5-9C1E-767EE6C3F33D Fiscal Analysis
This action has no financial impact.
Next Steps
Following the appointment of two members to the Housing Commission, the City Clerk’s Office will update the commission’s roster and coordinate the oath of office and the filing of the appointees’ statements of economic interest, ethics training certificate and workplace harassment prevention training.
Environmental Evaluation
The proposed action is not a “project” as defined by CEQA Section 21065 and CEQA Guidelines Section 15378(b)(5) and does not require environmental review under CEQA Guidelines Section 15060(c)(3) because appointing an individual to act as a city representative on a board, commission or committee is an organizational or administrative government activity that will not result in direct or indirect physical changes in the environment. The activities or projects undertaken by or that may be considered by a board, commission or committee may require preparation of an environmental document in accordance with CEQA and the CEQA Guidelines.
Exhibits
1. City Council resolution appointing one member to the Housing Commission – Rental Assistance - General
2. City Council resolution appointing one member to the Housing Commission – Member At- Large
3. Applications received from residents advancing to the interview process
4. Correspondence received through noon on Wednesday, July 23, 2022 July 29, 2025
Item #12 Page 3 of 15
Docusign Envelope ID: DDBF59A2-2F54-4AA5-9C1E-767EE6C3F33D Exhibit 1
RESOLUTION NO. 2025-190
A RES
OLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF CARLSBAD,
CALIFORNIA, APPOINTING ONE MEMBER TO THE HOUSING COMMISSION –
RENTAL ASSISTANCE - GENERAL
WHER
EAS, Commissioner Christopher Shayne Horton was appointed to the Housing Commission in November 2023 to fill the unexpired term of Commissioner Marissa Cortez-Torres for a term ending in July 2025; and
WHEREAS, Commissioner Horton is eligible for reappointment; and WHEREAS, a scheduled vacancy on the Housing Commission exists.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of Carlsbad, California, as follows:
1. That the above recitations are true and correct.
2. The proposed action is not a “project” as defined by CEQA Section 21065 and CEQA Guidelines Section 15378(b)(5) and does not require environmental review under CEQA Guidelines Section 15060(c)(3) because appointing an individual to act as a city representative on a board, commission or committee is an organizational or administrative government activity that will not result in direct or indirect physical changes in the environment. The activities or projects undertaken by or that may be considered by a boar d, commission or committee may require preparation of an environmental document in accordance with CEQA and the CEQA Guidelines.
3. That the following Carlsbad resident is appointed to serve on the Housing Commission, for a term ending in July 2029, or until a replacement is appointed:
July 29, 2025
Item #12 Page 4 of 15
Christopher Shayne Horton
Docusign Envelope ID: DDBF59A2-2F54-4AA5-9C1E-767EE6C3F33D PASSED, APPROVED AND ADOPTED at a Regular Meeting of the City Council of the City of Carlsbad on the 29th day of July, 2025, by the following vote, to wit:
AYES: Blackburn, Bhat-Patel, Acosta, Burkholder, Shin.
NAYS: None.
ABSTAIN: None.
ABSENT: None.
_____________
_________________________
KEITH BLACKBURN, Mayor
___________________________
___________
SHERRY FREISINGER, City Clerk
(SEAL)
July 29, 2025
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Docusign Envelope ID: DDBF59A2-2F54-4AA5-9C1E-767EE6C3F33D
Exhibit 2
RESOLUTION NO. 2025-191
A RES
OLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF CARLSBAD,
CALIFORNIA, APPOINTING ONE MEMBER TO THE HOUSING COMMISSION –
AT-LARGE MEMBER
WHER
EAS, Commissioner Chih-Wu Chang was appointed to the Housing Commission in September 2023 to fill the expired term of Commissioner Allen Manzano for a term ending in July 2025; and
WHEREAS, Commissioner Chang is eligible for reappointment; and WHEREAS, a scheduled vacancy on the Housing Commission exists.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of Carlsbad, California, as follows:
1. That the above recitations are true and correct.
2. The proposed action is not a “project” as defined by CEQA Section 21065 and CEQA Guidelines Section 15378(b)(5) and does not require environmental review under CEQA Guidelines Section 15060(c)(3) because appointing an individual to act as a city representative on a board, commission or committee is an organizational or administrative government activity that will not result in direct or indirect physical changes in the environment. The activities or projects undertaken by or that may be considered by a board, commission or committee may require preparation of an environmental document in accordance with CEQA and the CEQA Guidelines.
3. That the following Carlsbad resident is appointed to serve on the Housing Commission, for a term ending in July 2029, or until a replacement is appointed:
July 29, 2025
Item #12 Page 6 of 15
Chih-Wu Chang
Docusign Envelope ID: DDBF59A2-2F54-4AA5-9C1E-767EE6C3F33D PASSED, APPROVED AND ADOPTED at a R egular M eeting of the City Council of the City of Carlsbad on the 29th day of July, 2025, by the following vote, to wit:
AYES: Blackburn, Bhat-Patel, Acosta, Burkholder, Shin.
NAYS: None.
ABSTAIN: None.
ABSENT: None.
_____________
_________________________
KEITH BLACKBURN, Mayor
____________________
__________________
SHERRY FREISINGER, City Clerk
(SEAL)
July 29, 2025
Item #12 Page 7 of 15
Docusign Envelope ID: DDBF59A2-2F54-4AA5-9C1E-767EE6C3F33D
June 5, 2025 8:36 AM
Boards, Commissions and Committees
Application for Appointment
Agricultural Mitigation Fee
Committee
Arts Commission Beach Preservation
Commission
Community-Police
Engagement Commission
Historic Preservation
Commission
Housing Commission X
Library Board of Trustees Parks & Recreation
Commission
Planning Commission
Senior Commission Traffic Safety & Mobility
Commission
Investment Review Board
Personal Information
Name
Christopher Horton
Date of Birth:
Required for Voter Registration Verification
Home Address District No. 1
City ZIP
Primary Phone Secondary Phone
E-mail
Employment Status Employed
Occupation Case Manager
Employer Community Resource Center
Employer Address
Work Phone Mobile
Acknowledgements
Yes No
I am a resident of the City of Carlsbad. X
I am a registered voter in Carlsbad. X
I am willing to file financial disclosure statements. X I am willing to complete two hours of state mandated ethics training every two years. X Are you currently an officer of or employed by the City of Carlsbad? X I am a Citizens Academy graduate. X
I am familiar with the responsibilities of the board/commission/committee(s) on which I wish to serve.
X
I am willing to be interviewed regarding my qualifications for appointment by the City Council or at the request of an individual Council member. X
Are you currently or have you ever been under contract with the City of Carlsbad? If yes, please explain below. X
Exhibit 3
July 29, 2025
Item #12 Page 8 of 15
Docusign Envelope ID: DDBF59A2-2F54-4AA5-9C1E-767EE6C3F33D Interest
I am committed to advocating for equitable, inclusive housing solutions that uplift our most vulnerable residents. As someone with lived experience of homelessness and professional experience in nonprofit social services, I bring a unique perspective that bridges policy and reality. Serving on the Housing Commission has deepened my understanding of local housing challenges, and I am eager to continue contributing thoughtful, compassionate leadership to help shape effective strategies that meet the needs of our community.
Please describe your educational background
I hold a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and attended law school, where I developed skills in policy analysis, advocacy, and critical thinking. My education has prepared me to engage thoughtfully with complex housing issues, understand legal and regulatory frameworks, and contribute meaningfully to equity-focused solutions. I am currently exploring graduate programs in public policy or social work to deepen my long-term impact in housing and social services. Please describe relevant experience As someone who experienced homelessness here in Carlsbad and now works in nonprofit social services, I bring both lived experience and professional expertise to the Housing Commission. My BA in Political Science and legal education sharpened my understanding of public policy, while my current role has deepened my insight into the systemic challenges faced by unhoused and low-income residents. I approach this work with empathy, pragmatism, and a commitment to equity. My unique perspective bridges policy and lived reality, allowing me to advocate effectively for solutions that are both compassionate and actionable.
Please describe your current or past community involvement My primary community involvement includes serving on the Housing Commission and participating in Carlsbad’s annual Point-in-Time Count for the past three years. Having experienced homelessness in Carlsbad, I bring a personal and informed perspective to these efforts. These experiences have strengthened my commitment to advocating for our unhoused neighbors and to ensuring community voices are represented. I view civic engagement as both a responsibility and a privilege and am committed to continuing this work in service to our city.
July 29, 2025
Item #12 Page 9 of 15
Docusign Envelope ID: DDBF59A2-2F54-4AA5-9C1E-767EE6C3F33D Please list all service on boards, commissions or committees, private or public agencies, (including non-profit organizations)
Carlsbad Housing Commission, Vice Chair 2023 - present
Additional information or comments
Thank you for the opportunity to serve. This work is deeply personal to me, and I remain committed to using both my professional skills and lived experience to help shape a housing system that is more just, compassionate, and effective for all members of our community.
Submittal Information
Submit Date: June 5, 2025 8:36 AM
July 29, 2025
Item #12 Page 10 of 15
Docusign Envelope ID: DDBF59A2-2F54-4AA5-9C1E-767EE6C3F33D June 4, 2025 11:52 PM
Boards, Commissions and Committees
Application for Appointment
Agricultural Mitigation Fee
Committee Arts Commission Beach Preservation
Commission
Community-Police
Engagement Commission Historic Preservation
Commission Housing Commission X
Library Board of Trustees Parks & Recreation
Commission Planning Commission
Senior Commission Traffic Safety & Mobility
Commission Investment Review Board
Personal Information
Name
Chih-Wu Chang
Date of Birth:
Required for Voter Registration Verification
Home Address District No. 3
City ZIP
Primary Phone Secondary Phone
E-mail
Employment Status Retired
Occupation
Employer
Employer Address
Work Phone Mobile
Acknowledgements
Yes No
I am a resident of the City of Carlsbad. X
I am a registered voter in Carlsbad. X
I am willing to file financial disclosure statements. X I am willing to complete two hours of state mandated ethics training every two years. X Are you currently an officer of or employed by the City of Carlsbad? X I am a Citizens Academy graduate. X
I am familiar with the responsibilities of the board/commission/committee(s) on which I wish to serve.
X
I am willing to be interviewed regarding my qualifications for appointment by the City Council or at the request of an individual Council member. X
Are you currently or have you ever been under contract with the City of Carlsbad? If yes, please explain below. X
July 29, 2025
Item #12 Page 11 of 15
Docusign Envelope ID: DDBF59A2-2F54-4AA5-9C1E-767EE6C3F33D Interest
I have a strong desire to serve the residents of Carlsbad. I want to help the city so that it would be the best place to live for its residents. Affordable housing and homelessness are among the most significant issues in San Diego County. As such, I would like to assist the City of Carlsbad in addressing these important issues.
Please describe your educational background
MS in Medicinal Chemistry, MS in Computer and Information Science, MBA, and Certified Project Management Professional (PMP). I am a graduate of Citizens Academy, a graduate of Citizens Policy Academy, and a graduate of Candidate Academy since I want to become familiar with the city's infrastructure and systems so that I can serve the city better.
Please describe relevant experience
I have proven leadership, management, and organizational skills, which can be invaluable to the City of Carlsbad as I am serving as a Housing Commissioner. I have a good understanding of the city’s infrastructure and systems, and affordable housing and homeless issues.
Please describe your current or past community involvement I am a volunteer for Meals on Wheels, delivering meals weekly to seniors in need in Carlsbad and nearby cities. I am the President and a Board member of OCA San Diego, a non-profit organization dedicated to serving the AANHPI community. I frequently volunteer to help the North County LGBTQ Resource Center. I have often expressed my support or concerns on various issues to the City Council and Carlsbad Unified School Board, as a good and caring resident must get actively engaged with the city's events and issues. I have donated to several charitable organizations regularly.
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Docusign Envelope ID: DDBF59A2-2F54-4AA5-9C1E-767EE6C3F33D Please list all service on boards, commissions or committees, private or public agencies, (including non-profit organizations)
I have served as a Housing Commissioner and Chair of the Housing Commission for the past twenty months, during which I have studied and gained extensive knowledge about affordable housing and homelessness issues and policy and procedures. I have also been able to ask relevant questions during Housing Commission Meetings. I am a Board Member of OCA San Diego, a non-profit organization dedicated to serving the AANHPI community.
Additional information or comments
My desire to serve the community has motivated me to serve as a Housing Commissioner, as addressing affordable housing and homelessness issues is critical to many residents. I have always tried to behave with integrity and ethics, treating others with kindness and respect. If I am selected to serve as the Housing Commissioner again, I will continue to serve in the best interest of the city.
Submittal Information
Submit Date: June 4, 2025 11:52 PM
July 29, 2025
Item #12 Page 13 of 15
Docusign Envelope ID: DDBF59A2-2F54-4AA5-9C1E-767EE6C3F33D 1 Morgen Fry
From: Chih-Wu Chang <[email protected]>
Sent: Thursday, July 17, 2025 8:57 AM
To: Keith Blackburn
Cc: City Clerk
Subject: Housing Commission
Follow Up Flag: Follow up
Flag Status: Flagged
Dear Mayor Blackburn,
I am interested in continuing to serve as a Housing Commissioner.
It has been an honor to serve as a Housing Commissioner since 2023 and as the Chair of the Housing Commission since January 2025. Over the last few years, I have gained a deeper understanding of the housing and homelessness issues that the City faces, enabling it to address relevant challenges more effectively. I have been working closely with the City staff and other Housing Commissioners to address several outstanding issues, including the Housing Commission Work Plan.
During the last fiscal year, the Housing Commission reviewed the City's efforts to address homelessness and potential policy changes. The Housing Commission also provided feedback on the Community Development Grant five-year Consolidated Plan and funding allocation for the new fiscal year. The Housing Commission also reviewed the use of the Housing Trust Fund. It commended the City for having a progressive program to generate revenue and utilize funding to support more Housing for lower- income households.
I understand that Housing and homelessness are complex issues, and there is no single solution to the problems. We can't expect to resolve issues of affordable Housing and homelessness overnight. Instead, we must continue working with the community, the State, other cities, and various organizations. It will take a long-term and well-planned effort to resolve many outstanding issues.
I understand that support and advice for affordable Housing and homelessness are top priorities of the Housing Commission. I look forward to working with the City staff this year on the items in our Work Plan.
Exhibit 4
July 29, 2025
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Docusign Envelope ID: DDBF59A2-2F54-4AA5-9C1E-767EE6C3F33D 2 I want to reiterate my interest in continuing to serve as a Housing Commissioner.
Thank you for your attention and your support.
Chih-Wu Chang
Graduate of Citizens Academy
Graduate of Citizens Police Academy
CAUTION: Do not open attachments or click on links unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe.
July 29, 2025
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Docusign Envelope ID: DDBF59A2-2F54-4AA5-9C1E-767EE6C3F33D