CA Review CKM
Meeting Date: July 21, 2026
To: Mayor and City Council
From: Geoff Patnoe, City Manager
Staff Contact: Liana Somepalli, Deputy City Clerk
[email protected], 442-339-2849
Subject: Mayoral Appointment of One Member to the Arts Commission Districts: All
Rec
ommended Action
Adopt a resolution appointing one member to the Arts Commission.
Executive Summary
The City Council is being asked to appoint one member to the Arts Commission, which advises the City Council on arts and culture related matters and implementation of the arts element of the Carlsbad General Plan.
The commission consists of seven 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 Joseph McClory was appointed to the Arts Commission in March 2026, to fill the expired term of Commissioner Frances Carrillo for a term ending in March 2030. Commissioner McClory resigned on May 20, 2026. Therefore, an unscheduled vacancy exists on the Arts Commission for a term expiring in March 2030.
The City Clerk’s Office received 18 applications from residents wishing to serve on the Arts 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:
• Lori Robbins – District 1
Exhibit 2 contains the application of the applicant moving forward in the interview process.
July 21, 2026
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The Maddy Act (California Government Code Sections 54970-54974) requires that on or before Dec. 31 of each year the legislative body shall 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 Arts Commission are:
Commission member District
Michelle Breyer 2
Barbara Chung 4
Diana Clark 1
Nora George 3
Gita Nassiri 3
Jennifer Salvetti-Kulla 3
Members of the Arts Commission are subject to the provisions of California’s Political Reform Act of 1974 and must file statements of economic interest each year. Every two years, they must complete two hours of ethics training, workplace harassment prevention training and fiscal and financial training. They must also adhere to the City of Carlsbad’s Code of Ethics and Public Service Values for Board and Commission Members.
Fiscal Analysis
This action has no financial impact.
Next Steps
Following the appointment of one member to the Arts Commission, the City Clerk’s Office will update the commission’s roster and coordinate the oath of office and the filing of the appointee’s statements of economic interest, ethics training, workplace harassment prevention training, fiscal and financial training and acknowledgement of the City of Carlsbad Boards, Commissions and Committees Code of Ethics & Public Service Values.
Environmental Evaluation
The proposed action is not a “project” as defined by California Environmental Quality Act, or 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
2. Application received from resident advancing to the interview process July 21, 2026
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Docusign Envelope ID: B747EC0E-FC08-8EE6-8395-ABAD54D95C0F Exhibit 1
RESOLUTION NO. 2026-154 .
A RE
SOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF CARLSBAD,
CALIFORNIA, APPOINTING ONE MEMBER TO THE ARTS COMMISSION WHERE
AS, Commissioner Joseph McClory was appointed to the Arts Commission in March 2026 to fill the expired term of Commissioner Frances Carrillo for a term ending in March 2030; and WHEREAS, Commissioner McClory resigned on May 20, 2026; and WHEREAS, an unscheduled vacancy on the Arts Commission exists with a term ending in March 2030.
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. Th at the proposed action is not a “project” as defined by California Environmental Quality Act, or 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 Arts Commission, for a term ending in March 2030, or until a replacement is appointed.
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Lori Robbins
Docusign Envelope ID: B747EC0E-FC08-8EE6-8395-ABAD54D95C0F PASSED, APPROVED AND ADOPTED at a Regula r Meeting of the City Council of the City of Ca rlsbad on the 21st day of July, 2026, 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 21, 2026
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02/19/2026
Boards, Commissions and Committees
Application for Appointment
Agricultural Mitigation Fee
Committee
Arts Commission X Environmental
Sustainability Commission
Community-Police
Engagement Commission
Historic Preservation
Commission
Housing Commission
Library Board of Trustees Parks & Recreation
Commission
Planning Commission
Senior Commission Traffic Safety & Mobility
Commission
Investment Review Board
Personal Information
Name
Lori Robbins
Date of Birth:
Required for Voter Registration Verification
Home Address District No. 1
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
Explanation: Yoga Teacher for Carlsbad Senior Center in 2022 and 2023 Exhibit 2
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As Arts Commissioner, I am looking forward to partnering with my colleagues to grow the children’s art program and expand our musical venues. The rapid growth of Carlsbad makes this an ideal time to brainstorm with the other commissioners to ensure that our city remains vibrant with art initiatives that reach all our neighborhoods. My vision for Carlsbad is to make art an integral part of our everyday experience. By weaving art directly into our infrastructure, our city can transform into an “Outdoor Gallery,” where art is not only confined to specific buildings but connects the city together with creative expression.
As a former architectural designer, I have experience acquiring custom artwork, sculpture, and painting for commercial environments. I am truly excited about an appointment on the Arts Commission. I look forward to supporting our current arts programs and working with my colleagues to transform Carlsbad into a creative destination for our residents and visitors alike.
Please describe your educational background
Bachelor’s Degree from Tufts University in Cognitive Science Minor in Classical Civilization with summer study in Athens, Cairo and Italy. Interior Design Degree from Boston Architectural College Please describe relevant experience
Designed multiple restaurants, offices and retail spaces, including storefronts, millwork, lighting, finishes and custom artwork. Worked closely with artists to create sculptures and murals that aligned with the design objectives. Managed project budgets, schedules, code reviews, personnel and construction oversight. Presented design drawings and concepts to colleagues and clients for feedback. Links to some of my projects as a designer and my watercolor paintings: Architectural Projects:
https://purrfaceproductions.com/work-experience Artwork Portfolio:
https://purrfaceproductions.com/artwork-portfolio Social media: https://www.instagram.com/zoe_super_cat Please describe your current or past community involvement I have advocated for our community by speaking at Planning, Council, SANDAG and NCTD meetings. For example, I have been working to improve the pedestrian crossings at our rail surface gates and NCTD is in the process of engineering and funding this project. I also worked with the Planning Department on the Design Standards and given feedback on new construction projects. As part of a local resident engagement group, I advocated to improve management and oversight at Windsor Point, to expand street cleaning, reduce litter and manage traffic on our streets. I am a Citizens Academy graduate, so I have seen how much coordinated effort goes into running Carlsbad. I hope an appointment to the Arts Commission allows me to contribute to this effort by ensuring that we continue to improve and maintain our beautiful city.
July 21, 2026
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Docusign Envelope ID: B747EC0E-FC08-8EE6-8395-ABAD54D95C0F Please list all service on boards, commissions or committees, private or public agencies, (including non-profit organizations)
I am looking forward to my first Carlsbad board appointment as an Arts Commissioner.
Additional information or comments
I have attached two letters of recommendation.
Submittal Information
Submit Date: February 19, 2026 1:56 PM
July 21, 2026
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February 3, 2026
Mayor Keith Blackburn
City of Carlsbad
1200 Carlsbad Village Drive
Carlsbad, CA 92008
Re: Arts Commission Vacancy
Dear Honorable Mayor Blackburn:
I am pleased to write in support of Lori Robbins and her interest in serving on the City of Carlsbad Arts Commission. Lori is a passionate and deeply engaged supporter of downtown Carlsbad and a resident who consistently champions what is best for the vitality, livability, and long-term appeal of Carlsbad Village.
Importantly, her commitment extends beyond the Village itself—she is a thoughtful advocate for Carlsbad as a whole and understands how arts and culture contribute to a strong, connected community and sense of place.
Lori brings a meaningful blend of artistic knowledge, design sensibility, and civic dedication that makes her a compelling candidate for this role. Her background in visual arts and architecture, paired with hands-on participation in creative communities and cultural events, gives her a well-rounded perspective on both the creative process and the public value of the arts. She understands the discipline behind artistic excellence as well as the importance of making the arts accessible and engaging for residents and visitors alike.
In addition to her creative experience, Lori is a confident and articulate public speaker who regularly participates in City Council meetings. This familiarity with civic processes, combined with her ability to clearly communicate ideas and advocate thoughtfully, positions her to contribute meaningfully to board discussions and decision-making.
Lori’s enthusiasm for the arts, commitment to community involvement, and collaborative approach would be a true asset to the Arts Commission. I strongly support her application and am confident she would serve the City of Carlsbad with insight, creativity, and care.
Sincerely,
Christine Davis
Executive Director
Carlsbad Village Association
Zachary Markham
Chairman
Heidi Willes
Vice Chair
Samantha Dean-Fauce
Treasurer
Jenna Dotson
Secretary
Fumi Matsubara
Board Member
Shawnta Fleming
Board Member
Chanel Bennet
Board Member
Anna Howard
Board Member
The Carlsbad Village
Association (CVA) is a
non-profit organization
whose core purpose is to
lead the continual
improvement of Carlsbad
Village by promoting and
enhancing its business,
cultural, and community
vitality, making it a premier
destination.
300 Carlsbad Village Dr.
Suite 108A #135
Carlsbad, CA 92008
www.carlsbad-village.com
[email protected]
July 21, 2026
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January 27,2026
Mayor Keith Blackburn
City Hall
1200 Carlsbad Village Dr
Carlsbad, CA 92008
Dear Mayor Blackburn,
Lori Robbins’ understanding of the important role art plays in the community experience, combined with her hard work and dedication to any task she undertakes, would make Lori a valuable addition to the City of Carlsbad’s Arts Commission.
I first met Lori when she was an interior design student and was so impressed that I invited her to join my architectural team. During her time at Darlow Christ Architects, Lori became a lead interior designer specializing in highly detailed, experiential, restaurant and retail projects.
From huge metal sculptures, to custom decorative finishes, to integrated light effects, Lori layered commissioned artwork into her projects. The result conveyed art, not as an afterthought, but as a necessary part of the overall experience.
Not only did Lori prove herself to be a skilled designer, but also a highly capable project manager establishing and maintaining budgets, coordinating design teams, as well as interfacing with contractors and government officials. Her strong communication skills allow her to seamlessly interface with everyone, strengthening a team approach.
Outside of work, I have enjoyed seeing Lori’s self-directed art projects and her commitment to the Carlsbad community. I am confident that she would bring her passion and skills to a position on the Arts Commission.
Sincerely,
Catherine A Christ, Principal
Darlow Christ Architects
July 21, 2026
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Docusign Envelope ID: B747EC0E-FC08-8EE6-8395-ABAD54D95C0F Projects
July 21, 2026
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Docusign Envelope ID: B747EC0E-FC08-8EE6-8395-ABAD54D95C0F Artwork
July 21, 2026
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Docusign Envelope ID: B747EC0E-FC08-8EE6-8395-ABAD54D95C0F Link to my website with current and past design projects: https://purrfaceproductions.com
July 21, 2026
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