CA Review CKM
Meeting Date: Sept. 30, 2025
To: Mayor and City Council
From: Geoff Patnoe, City Manager
Staff Contact: Melissa Rhodes, Deputy City Clerk
[email protected], 442-339-2007
Subject: Mayoral Appointment of Two Members to the Senior Commission Districts: All
Rec
ommended Action
Adopt resolutions appointing two members to the Senior Commission.
Executive Summary
The City Council is being asked to appoint two members to the Senior Commission. The Senior Commission advises and makes recommendations to the City Council on the special needs and concerns of senior citizens, including the creation, operation, maintenance, management and control of senior citizen programs, activities and facilities.
The Senior Commission consists of five members appointed by the Mayor and confirmed by the City Council. Members must be residents of Carlsbad and normally serve four-year terms, unless appointed to fill an unexpired term.
Explanation & Analysis
Commissioner Cheryl Dillon was appointed to the Senior Commission in February 2025 to fill the unexpired term of Commissioner Marcia Venegas-Garcia for a term ending in September 2025. There is a scheduled vacancy on the Senior Commission for a term ending in September 2029. Commissioner Dillon is eligible for and seeking reappointment.
Commissioner Bruce Fitz-Patrick was appointed to the Senior Commission in March 2023 to fill the unexpired term of Commissioner Shelly Sander for a term ending in September 2025. There is a scheduled vacancy on the Senior Commission for a term ending in September 2029.
Commissioner Fitz-Patrick is eligible for and seeking reappointment.
The City Clerk’s Office received 12 applications from residents wishing to serve on the Senior Commission. In keeping with City Council Policy No. 88, the Mayor has chosen the following two applicants to advance in the process and interview with the full City Council:
• Cheryl Dillon – District 4
• Bruce Fitz-Patrick – District 1
Sept. 30, 2025
Item #2 Page 1 of 14
Docusign Envelope ID: C29A3391-07BF-47FC-AF13-EEE054CF1DA6 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 Senior Commission are:
Commissioner District
Cheryl Dillon
Bruce Fitz-Patrick
4 1
Kathryn Rangus 3
Nelson Ross 3
Cecilia Schouwe 2
Me
mbers of the Senior Commission are subject to the provisions of California’s Political Reform Act of 1974 and must file statements of economic interest each year and complete ethics training and sexual harassment prevention training every two years.
Fiscal Analysis
This action has no financial impact.
Next Steps
Following the appointment of two members to the Senior Commission, the City Clerk’s Office will update the commission’s roster and coordinate the oaths 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 California Environmental Quality Act 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
2. City Council resolution
3. Applications received from residents advancing to the interview process
4. Correspondence received through Sept. 24, 2025, by noon Sept. 30, 2025
Item #2 Page 2 of 14
Docusign Envelope ID: C29A3391-07BF-47FC-AF13-EEE054CF1DA6 Exhibit 1
RESOLUTION NO. 2025-221 .
A RE
SOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF CARLSBAD,
CALIFORNIA, APPOINTING ONE MEMBER TO THE SENIOR COMMISSION WHE
REAS, Commissioner Cheryl Dillon was appointed to the Senior Commission in February 2025 to fill the unexpired term of Commissioner Marcia Venegas-Garcia for a term ending in September 2025; and
WHEREAS, Commissioner Dillon is eligible for and seeking reappointment; and WHEREAS, a scheduled vacancy on the Senior Commission exists with a term ending in September 2029.
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 Senior Commission, for a term ending in September 2029, or until a replacement is appointed:
Sept. 30, 2025
Item #2 Page 3 of 14
Cheryl Dillon
Docusign Envelope ID: C29A3391-07BF-47FC-AF13-EEE054CF1DA6 PASSED, APPR OVED AND ADOPTED at a Regula r Meeting of the City Council of the City of Carlsbad on the 30th day of September, 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)
Sept. 30, 2025
Item #2 Page 4 of 14
Docusign Envelope ID: C29A3391-07BF-47FC-AF13-EEE054CF1DA6
Exhibit 2
RESOLUTION NO. 2025-222
A RE
SOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF CARLSBAD,
CALIFORNIA, APPOINTING ONE MEMBER TO THE SENIOR COMMISSION WHE
REAS, Commissioner Bruce Fitz-Patrick was appointed to the Senior Commission in March 2023 to fill the unexpired term of Commissioner Shelly Sander for a term ending in September 2025 ; and
WHEREAS, Commissioner Fitz-Patrick is eligible for and seeking reappointment; and WHEREAS, a scheduled vacancy on the Senior Commission exists with a term ending in September 2029.
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 Senior Commission, for a term ending in September 2029, or until a replacement is appointed:
Sept. 30, 2025
Item #2 Page 5 of 14
Bruce Fitz-Patrick
Docusign Envelope ID: C29A3391-07BF-47FC-AF13-EEE054CF1DA6 PASSED, APPROVED AND ADOPTED at a Regula r Meeting of the City Council of the City of Carlsbad on the 30th day of September, 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)
Sept. 30, 2025
Item #2 Page 6 of 14
Docusign Envelope ID: C29A3391-07BF-47FC-AF13-EEE054CF1DA6
August 8, 2025 5:04 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
Library Board of Trustees Parks & Recreation
Commission
Planning Commission
Senior Commission
X
Traffic Safety & Mobility
Commission
Investment Review Board
Personal Information
Name
Cheryl Dillon
Date of Birth:
Required for Voter Registration Verification
Home Address District No. 4
City ZIP
Primary Phone Secondary Phone
E-mail
Employment Status Self-Employed
Occupation Divorce Coach
Employer Equitable Mediation Services
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
Sept. 30, 2025
Item #2 Page 7 of 14
Docusign Envelope ID: C29A3391-07BF-47FC-AF13-EEE054CF1DA6 Interest
I am deeply committed to supporting the well-being, inclusion, and quality of life of older adults in Carlsbad.
Serving on the Senior Commission allows me to contribute in a meaningful way to the city I call home by helping ensure our programs, resources, and initiatives reflect the diverse needs and interests of our senior community. In addition to my current service on the Commission, I am actively involved in local organizations such as the Woman’s Club of Carlsbad, the Carlsbad Chamber of Commerce, and the city’s Senior Center, where I volunteer regularly. These roles keep me closely connected to residents, staff, and community partners, giving me insight into both the opportunities and challenges facing seniors in our area. And my background in psychology, coaching, and event planning equip me to contribute fresh ideas and a collaborative spirit.
Please describe your educational background
BA in Psychology, University of Connecticut CPC - Certified Professional Coach, Institute for Professional Excellence in Coaching Professional Certificate in Meeting and Events Planning, San Diego State University Please describe relevant experience
I believe I am a strong fit for the Senior Commission because I bring a blend of professional expertise, community involvement, and genuine passion for serving others. With a bachelor’s degree in psychology, certification as a life coach, and a background in event planning, I have spent nearly two decades creating programs that support personal growth, connection, and well-being. My experience equips me to contribute ideas and initiatives that encourage social engagement, lifelong learning, and a sense of belonging for all seniors in Carlsbad. Locally, I am an active member of the Woman’s Club of Carlsbad, the Carlsbad Chamber of Commerce, and a volunteer at the Carlsbad Senior Center. These roles keep me engaged with residents and community leaders, and give me firsthand insight into the needs, challenges, and opportunities for our senior population.
Please describe your current or past community involvement Please see above
Sept. 30, 2025
Item #2 Page 8 of 14
Docusign Envelope ID: C29A3391-07BF-47FC-AF13-EEE054CF1DA6 Please list all service on boards, commissions or committees, private or public agencies, (including non-profit organizations)
Senior Commission - currently serving
Additional information or comments
Submittal Information
Submit Date: August 8, 2025 5:04 PM
Sept. 30, 2025
Item #2 Page 9 of 14
Docusign Envelope ID: C29A3391-07BF-47FC-AF13-EEE054CF1DA6 August 12, 2025 8:13 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
Library Board of Trustees
Parks & Recreation
Commission
Planning Commission
Senior Commission
X
Traffic Safety & Mobility
Commission
Investment Review Board
Personal Information
Name
Bruce Fitz-Patrick
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 engineer
Employer L3 Harris
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
Sept. 30, 2025
Item #2 Page 10 of 14
Docusign Envelope ID: C29A3391-07BF-47FC-AF13-EEE054CF1DA6 Interest
Im an active Senior and am looking to continue to serve as a Commissioner for the Senior Commission in order to support the ongoing work by the Parks and Rec's to create programs, activities and facilities to improve the life for Seniors in Carlsbad.
Please describe your educational background
Bachelors in Engineering
Please describe relevant experience
I was involved in Scouting as a youth (Eagle Scout) and as a Scout leader, helping improve the community and the experience of the members. Ive learned quite a bit RE the Carlsbad Senior program and would like to continue.
Please describe your current or past community involvement Currently a Senior commission member, and have been enjoying reviewing and approving the current plans.
Sept. 30, 2025
Item #2 Page 11 of 14
Docusign Envelope ID: C29A3391-07BF-47FC-AF13-EEE054CF1DA6 Please list all service on boards, commissions or committees, private or public agencies, (including non-profit organizations)
Senior Commission
Additional information or comments
Submittal Information
Submit Date: August 12, 2025 8:13 AM
Sept. 30, 2025
Item #2 Page 12 of 14
Docusign Envelope ID: C29A3391-07BF-47FC-AF13-EEE054CF1DA6 From: Bruce Fitz-Patrick
To: Melissa Rhodes
Cc: Bruce Fitz-Patrick
Subject: Fw: Senior Commission Appointment
Date: Tuesday, September 23, 2025 2:18:43 PM
I have enjoyed supporting the Parks and Rec's Senior Commission and look forward to contributing in that capacity for another appointment period. I believe that the Parks and Rec's has done a great job setting up facilities, programs and other services that enhance the life of Seniors in Carlsbad.
Since I am very active and still working although I am 67 it gives me unique perspective on the needs of similar demographic in the senior community. I feel that I have contributed in a positive manner in the past during meetings and other discussions and look forward to continue that service position.
Regards,
Bruce Fitz-Patrick
520-609-8898
From: Bruce Fitz-Patrick <[email protected]> Sent: Tuesday, September 23, 2025 2:10 PM
To: Bruce Fitz-Patrick <[email protected]>
Subject: Fwd: Senior Commission Appointment
Bruce Fitz-Patrick
520-609-8898
Begin forwarded message:
From: Melissa Rhodes <[email protected]>
Date: September 23, 2025 at 2:07:13 PM PDT
To:
[email protected]
Subject: Senior Commission Appointment
Hi Commissioner Fitz-Patrick,
Please feel free to e-mail me your sentiments in writing regarding your desire to continue to serve on the Senior Commission.
Thank you,
Exhibit 4
Sept. 30, 2025
Item #2 Page 13 of 14
Docusign Envelope ID: C29A3391-07BF-47FC-AF13-EEE054CF1DA6
Melissa Rhodes
Deputy City Clerk
Office of the City Clerk
1200 Carlsbad Village Drive
Carlsbad, CA 92008
P: 442-339-2007 | [email protected]
| www.carlsbadca.gov
CAUTION: Do not open attachments or click on links unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe.
Sept. 30, 2025
Item #2 Page 14 of 14
Docusign Envelope ID: C29A3391-07BF-47FC-AF13-EEE054CF1DA6