Attachment 1 - Qualified Applications .pdf — Chula Vista City Council, July 8, 2025

CITY O
CHULA VISTA Office of the City Clerk
Planning Commission Vacancy
List of Qualified Applicants
Select the page number to view an application.

Applicants are listed in alphabetical order by last name Applicant Name Page Number
Judy Alvarez-Gallardo 2
Tim P. Jones 12
Janet Knowlton 19
Tomas Ortiz 29
James Smyth 37
276 Fourth Avenue, Building A | Chula Vista, CA 91910 | (619) 691-5041 | [email protected] | www.chulavistaca.gov Judy Alvarez-Gallardo

CITY OF

CHULA VISTA
From: [email protected]
To: CityClerk; Karina L. Lafarga; Amanda Angulo; Audrey Malone; [email protected] Subject: City of Chula Vista - Planning Commission Application Date: Tuesday, May 20, 2025 5:58:26 PM
WARNING - This email originated from outside the City of Chula Vista. Do not click any links and do not open attachments unless you can confirm the sender.

PLEASE REPORT SUSPICIOUS EMAILS BY USING THE PHISH ALERT REPORT BUTTON or to [email protected]
A new entry to a form/survey has been submitted.

Form Name: Planning Commission Application
Date & Time: 05/20/2025 5:58 PM
Response #: 52
Submitter ID: 139470
IP address:

Time to complete: 25 min., 56 sec.

Survey Details

Page 1 ends

Application for membership on the Planning Commission

1. Prefix
(o) Ms.

2. Preferred Pronoun
10)
She/Her/Hers

3. First and Last Name
Judy Alvarez-Gallardo
Email

5. Home Address

6. City
Chula Vista

7. ZIP Code
91913
Primary Phone
Secondary Phone
Not answered

10. I certify that I am a resident of the City of Chula Vista and at least 18 years of age. (o) Yes

11. How long have you been a resident of the City?
24 years

12. Please click here to view the interactive map and verify your District of residency I am a resident of the following City Council district. (0) 3

13. Present employer
Global Foundries

14. Position
Principal Corporate Application Engineer

15. Have you ever been employed by the City of Chula Vista? (o) No

16. If you have worked for the City of Chula Vista please provide the department and dates of employment.

Chula Vista

17. Please indicate the area(s) in which you have expertise and experience, or select None: (select as many as applicable)
[x] Other related design expertise
Semiconductor Industry & CVIFC Board

18. Are you a California licensed real estate agent?
(o) No

19. If you selected one or more of the areas of expertise and experience above, please describe your expertise and experience that you would bring to the selected areas. (250 words or less) I have over 25 years of experience in the semiconductor industry and believe that Chula Vista has great potential for growth & prosperity in the tech industry. A balance between tech growth in our City and cozy home-living community is very important, crucial to maintain that balance. In addition, l am an avid hiker and outdoor enthusiast, therefore l am eager to balance community growth with maintenance of our gorgeous outdoor trails.

20. Are you currently serving on any board or commission for Chula Vista or any other governmental agency?
(0) No

21. If so, which ones?
Not answered

22. Per Chula Vista Municipal Code Section 2.25.030, 1 understand:
-If l am currently serving on a board or commission, I must resign from my current board or commission if I am appointed.
-I must have served at least 12 months on my current board or commission in order to be appointed to another board or commission.
(o) I have read and acknowledged the above statement.

23. What are your principal areas of interest in our City government, and what experience or special knowledge can you bring to those areas?
I am interested in volunteering on the Planning Commission and working with our City Officials with the common goal of growth and prosperity for our community. As an Principal Corporate Engineer being involved in many business conferences and as an athlete also being involved in many athletic events that generate huge profits for local businesses, 1 bring that vision and energy to this commission,

24. What do you hope to accomplish in the role of a Planning Commissioner? (250 words or less) Simply put, create prosperous growth for our City, while maintaining a safe enjoyable resident living for our communities in Chula Vista.

25. I understand that to be considered, I must submit a resume along with this application.

Resume JudyGallardo.pdf

26. I understand that to be considered, I must submit a letter of reference along with this application.

Judy Plan 2025.pdf

27. The City understands meeting schedules and individual's availability may change. We ask that you consider the meeting schedule when submitting an application. (o) I have reviewed the Planning Commission regular meeting date, time and frequency.

28. (0) l am familiar with the responsibilities of the Planning Commission. I attest that the information I have provided is accurate and true.

29. (o) I understand that this application and any documents submitted in connection with the application process are public records and may be publicly disclosed.

30. Where did you hear about this vacancy?
(o) City's Social Media
Thank you,
City of Chula Vista
This is an automated message generated by Granicus. Please do not reply directly to this email.

Judy Alvarez-Gallardo
Chula Vista, CA 91913
Email: C

SUMMARY
Experienced in full Frontend-to-Backend design activities, with expertise in Signoff STA and tool development flows.

PROFILE
• Versatile technical skills. Self-motivated person that can evaluate, implement, and roll out new EDA tool flows and methodologies.
• Excellent technical documentation skills.
• Circuit Design experience (high speed standard cell, domino logic, custom cells). • Technical lead on Handoff and Signoff flows.
• Highly experienced in RTL to GDSII flow, particularly with the Synopsys tool suite (Design Compiler, Formality, DFT-Compiler, PrimetimeSI, Primetime-PX). • Proficient with Cadence ETS tool, Cadence Conformal-LEC, SOC Encounter flow. • Programming skills include System Verilog, Python, TCL, Perl, "make" scripts, shell scripts. • Responsible for Design Flow Development, Automation and Scripting. • Strong mentoring/coaching skills.
• Bilingual; fluent in Spanish.
• U.S. Citizen

EDUCATION
University of California, San Diego, La Jolla 1998-2001 Masters Degree in Electrical & Computer Engineering (Master of Engineering Program) Graduation Date: June 15, 2001
University of California, San Diego, La Jolla 1995-1998 Major: B.S. Degree in Electrical Engineering (Circuits and Systems) Graduation Date: June 12, 1998
Awards and Scholarships:
1997 Fluor Daniel Engineering Scholarship
1996 Fluor Daniel Engineering Scholarship
1997 Hewlett-Packard Scholarship
Grossmont and Cuyamaca Colleges, El Cajon 1993-1995
Alpha Gamma Sigma Honor Society Member
Dean's List and Vice-President's List

PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE
Southwestern Community College District, Chula Vista, CA (Current) Adjunct Professor
School of Mathematics, Science & Engineering Department • Engineering courses taught: Electrical Circuits with Pspice Lab and Introduction to Engineering Careers
• Co-chair student engineering organization: Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers Infotech Enterprises EDS, Inc., San Jose, CA (June 2011 - March 2014) Lead ASIC Design Engineer
Mobile base station platform - 12.5 × 12.275mm, 48M gates, TSMC 40nm; 18Watt power;

39.7Mbits SRAM 1857 instances; ARM cortex dual core.
• JESD204A: 4 RX lanes 3.072 Gbps, 1 x B8
• BB OBSAI: 4 RX/TX lanes 6.144G, 2 x B4
• ETH-SGMII: 1 RX/TX lanes 1.25G, 1 x B4
• SRIO v2.1: 2 RX/TX lanes 3.125G,1 x B4
• 1Gbps DDR3, 36bit (IDID7)
• Responsibilities included ownership of top-level STA for Signoff, flow & scripting support, top-level Spyglass ERC checks, top-level Clock Metrics Analysis.

ST Microelectronics, Inc., La Jolla, CA (2001 - Sept 2010) Staff Design Engineer
High-speed Channel Designs/Advanced IPs - 40nm R/W channel for hard disk drive • Responsible for RTL & constraints verification using Atrenta Spyglass, Synthesis, Formal Verification, Static Timing Analysis and ILM/ETM timing model generation. • In charge of the Handoff Flow and ensured quality control of all handoff deliverables. • Responsible for all Signoff activities; timing closure of 3.2GHz high-speed design. • Developed a custom Spyglass kit and trained design engineers on this flow. • i Created an Implementation Guidelines document and a handoff checklist; delivered training sessions to engineers to quickly bring them up to speed on new design flows. • Proficient using Cadence ETS tool for STA and Cadence's Conformal-LEC. • Developed flow kits for STA experiments, one for Cadence ETS another for Synopsys Primetime. Required extensive coding skills in PERL, shell, tcl. • Gained a lot of experience developing flows for synthesis, static timing analysis, formal verification, DFT, place-and-route and Signoff.

Design Engineer IV
Data Storage Division Projects - 90nm/65nm technology designs • Explored power reduction techniques for DBE design. Achieved 20% power reduction by optimizing design using VT strategy and clock-gating techniques. • Produced SAPL report for final release of design.
• Responsible for pushing the block-level designs from entire RTL to GDS flow. • Used the Synopsys tool suite: DesignCompiler for synthesis, Formality for equivalence checking, Tetramax atpg, Primetime for STA, PrimePower for power analysis, Astro for place-and-route.
• Helped develop a flow/set of scripts to automate the Place & Route flow. • Ran verilog testbench simulations using Cadence's neverilog tool to produce a SAIF file for the power analysis. Ran RTL-level and also post-layout simulations. • Used SignalScan to graphically analyze the results from simulations to ensure tests passed. Created status reports for DFT activities.

Design Engineer III
Advanced R&D Group
Domino Logic - 90nm 64-bit MIPS m5kc CPU design
• Implemented with custom domino logic to achieve 740MHz speed whereas in comparison with static logic it achieved 540MHz.
• Responsible for Circuit Design of custom Domino Logic library cells. Used Cadence icb tool for schematic capture & layout and Eldo for circuit simulations. Investigated charge sharing effects on circuit designs.
• Also in charge of RTL partitioning & maintenance, synthesis, timing closure, STA and physical placement of design using Synopsys Astro.
• Additional responsibilities included the top-level integration and synthesis of the entire design which consisted of both the Static and Domino cores implemented into one top- level lead vehicle unit.

Design Engineer II
Low Power CPU Project - 0.18um technology
• Worked on an existing design of an x86 compatible processor (technology scaling of

0.25um to 0.18um) where I was in charge of the low-power optimization and power analysis of the integer unit and instruction control unit. • Developed low-power design strategy to extract 20-25% power savings from design.

Identified and implemented aggressive clock-gating & power down at RTL, enabled low power synthesis by using SAIF files at optimization steps, and used Dual Vt cells. • Coded blocks in Verilog, created WebGen memories, and power analysis using Sente.

Low-Power Design Techniques Investigation
• Assessed the effects of Reverse-Body Biasing techniques by running multiple simulations using HSPICE and ELDO
• Traveled to Italy for the 2000 International Symposium on Low Power Electronics & Design conference to obtain additional information on low-power design techniques.

CR&D Standard Cell Library Design - 0.18um technology
• Custom designed logic gates for this new high-speed library. • Responsible for the circuit design & layout of these custom cells. • Ran intensive simulations to meet the timing and area requirements of the library. • This new library achieved 20% speedup, it was validated on silicon, in comparison to an existing high-speed library.

Metaflow Technologies, Inc., La Jolla, CA (1998 - 2001) Design Engineer I
VLSI design of x86-compatible microprocessor - 0.25um technology design • Provided detailed circuit design of the Memory Shelf unit and custom cell layout. • Implemented static timing analysis for skew verification and critical path delay verification to ensure timing closure of design.
• Ran physical verification of semi-custom blocks. Took the initiative to take training for Silicon Ensemble and CTGen on small semi-custom blocks.

University of California San Diego (USD), Engineering Dept. (1997-1998) Teacher's Assistant/Lab Supervisor
Evaluated students in the following senior level undergraduate courses:

ECE 53A course, under Professor Karen Kavaunagh
ECE 53B course, under Professor Barney Rickett
• Assisted students with circuit simulations, usage of test equipment such as oscilloscopes, schematic capture and other lab work.

Hewlett-Packard Company, San Diego, CA (1996 - 1997)
R&D Hardware Engineer
Printer Division
• Designed hardware circuitry and firmware to implement a test routine that successfully flagged bad printer ink heads.
• Programs that were used to accomplish goals were HP34810B Benchlink Scope, workstation C-development tools, and schematic drawing programs, in addition to the analog circuitry.

Home Imaging Division
• Identified and resolved issues with the existing hardware and firmware implementations of HP's first-ever digital camera.
• Traveled to Florida for the USB Developer's Conference to establish contacts and submit minutes on new USB developments.
• Contributed in the development of critical specification and design issues for HP project. Circulated specification document to design team.

VOLUNTEER EXPERIENCE
City of Chula Vista (CURRENT)
IFC Commissioner Chair
International Friendship Commission
• As Chair of the IFC, direct planning and developing economic cooperation and cultural interchange between our City and its sister cities: Odawara, Japan; Cebu City, Philippines and Irapuato, Mexico.
• Responsible for developing a STEM program, with subcommittee, to benefit our youth programs in Chula Vista and our sister city, Cebu City, Philippines. • Foster and support a friendly and culturally diverse environment for our visiting Ambassadors from Odawara, Japan.

School Site Council (CURRENT)
Council/Parent Member
Hedenkamp Elementary School
• Serve on the School Site Council for the past four years, advocating for the students' best interests, in providing a safe school environment and good education. • Assist in developing, reviewing and evaluating school's Safety Plan, educational goals and school budget.

UC San Diego - IDEA Center Industry Advisory Board (CURRENT) Industry Board Advisor
UCSD IDEA Engineering Student Center
• Serve on this advisory board, quarterly meetings with Faculty Director, Olivia Graeve, and UCSD's Jacobs School of Engineering, Dean Al Pisano, along with other Industry Board Advisors, to promote inclusion, diversity, excellence and achievement for all engineering students.
• Collaborate with advisors to improve the programs offered to UCSD engineering students and recommend new programs that could increase retention and graduation rates among our diverse engineering student population. • Recommend changes to the curriculum and new course offerings, that increase students' technical and soft skills, for post-graduation success in industry. • Provide feedback on student-centered services that promote academic success.

May 19, 2025
Dear Mayor McCann, Chula Vista City Council, and Mr. Todd Philips, I strongly recommend Judy Gallardo to serve on the Chula Vista Planning Commission.

She believes that civic duty is very important.

I believe that her master's degree in electrical engineering and her extensive career in the field has prepared her professionally. She guides her peers, makes strategic decisions and optimizes each stage of ongoing projects.

She embraces qualities needed to guide Chula Vista's development according to the community's vision and best interests. She has lived in Chula Vista for about 20 years and has been a part of this amazing growing city.

Ms. Gallardo was a dedicated Chairwoman for the Chula Vista International Friendship Commission. She is quite familiar with running board meetings and working with Chula Vista staff members. As her Vice Chairwoman, I observed her strong communication and organizational skills. She successfully guided both Japanese and Chula Vista Ambassadors and created programs that showcased the best of Chula Vista. She thoroughly approached each challenge and was able to make sound decisions after investigating all options.

I am confident that if Ms. Gallardo is selected to serve on the Planning Commission, she will welcome each task while playing a meaningful role in creating communities that will enrich the lives of Chula Vista residents.

If you need more information, please contact me.

Respectfully,
Nimpa Akana
Vice Chairwoman
Chula Vista Veterans Advisory Commission
Tim P. Jones

CITY OF

CHULA VISTA
From: [email protected]
To: CityClerk; Karina L. Lafarga; Amanda Angulo; Marion Reynoso; Audrey Malone Subject: City of Chula Vista - Planning Commission Application Date: Thursday, July 11, 2024 6;45:44 PM
WARNING - This email originated from outside the City of Chula Vista. Do not click any links and do not open attachments unless you can confirm the sender.

PLEASE REPORT SUSPICIOUS EMAILS BY USING THE PHISH ALERT REPORT BUTTON or to [email protected]
A new entry to a form/survey has been submitted.

Form Name: Planning Commission Application
Date & Time: 07/11/20246:45 PM
Response #: 49
Submitter ID: 133407
IP address:

Time to complete: 15 min., 54 sec.

Survey Details

Page 1 ends

Application for membership on the Planning Commission

1. Prefix
(o) Mr.

2. Preferred Pronoun
(0)
He/Him/His

3. First and Last Name
Tim P Jones, AIA
Email

5. Home Address

6. City
Chula Vista

7. ZIP Code
91910
Primary Phone
Secondary Phone
Not answered

10. I certify that l am a resident of the City of Chula Vista and at least 18 years of age. (o) Yes
How long have you been a resident of the City?
60 years

12. Please click here to view the interactive map and verify your District of residency I am a resident of the following City Council district. (0) 2

13. Present employer
TPJ Architecture

14. Position
President

15. Have you ever been employed by the City of Chula Vista? (o) No

16. If you have worked for the City of Chula Vista please provide the department and dates of employment.

N/A

17. Please indicate the area(s) in which you have expertise and experience, or select None: (select as many as applicable)
[x] Architecture [x] Urban Planning
[x] Architectural History [x] Planning/Environmental Planning [x] Landscape Architecture [x] Land Planning
[x] Civil Engineering [x] History

18. Are you a California licensed real estate agent?
(o) No

19. If you selected one or more of the areas of expertise and experience above, please describe your expertise and experience that you would bring to the selected areas. (250 words or less) I have been in the architectural design profession since 1977. I started in Chula Vista and 1 remain in Chula Vista to this day. My firm, TPJ Architecture, continues to design & develop residential and commercial projects for all manner of clients, from homeowners to major developers. My experience in Chula Vista specifically started back when Ken Lee was our Planning Director, and I've worked with many department staff since in Planning, Building Engineering, and Fire, i.e. Dwayne Bazzel, Luis Hernandez, Lou El Khazen, Carol Gove, Darin Golden, Jamal Batta, along with several elected officials, i.e. Shirley Horton, Tim Nader, Gayle McCandliss, and John McCann, I have processed dozens of projects through our Design Review Board, and I'm intimately familiar with the submittal, review, and approval process, along with a vast knowledge of our City of Chula Vista Municipal Code,

20. Are you currently serving on any board or commission for Chula Vista or any other governmental agency?
(o) No

21. If so, which ones?
N/A

22. Per Chula Vista Municipal Code Section 2.25.030, I understand:
-If I am currently serving on a board or commission, I must resign from my current board or commission if I am appointed.
-I must have served at least 12 months on my current board or commission in order to be appointed to another board or commission.
(o) I have read and acknowledged the above statement.

23. What are your principal areas of interest in our City government, and what experience or special knowledge can you bring to those areas?
As a lifelong resident of core Chula Vista (West Side), I have both an historic, along with a current knowledge of our city growth over the previous 50 years. I have been an active part of that growth with many of my design projects. My extensive knowledge of Zoning, Land Use, and Planning will bring a professional, and personal, perspective to the Commission review process. My specialty is Residential Design, and considering our current housing crisis, there is much need for wise and productive use of the existing properties West of 805, all the way to our new Bayfront project. Healthy communities require attention to such concerns as safety, density, affordability, traffic, and noise, while also ensuring equity for all existing residents and newly arriving groups & individuals. From I-5 to Otay Ranch, I will bring all my knowledge to bear while reviewing future development projects, and to consider all their related issues & impacts on our fine City.

24. What do you hope to accomplish in the role of a Planning Commissioner? (250 words or less) My primary intention is to contribute, to "give back", ', as it were. The City of Chula Vista has supported me in my youth, my education, my family, and my career. I am established here, and this is my home. I have reached a point in life when I have grandchildren growing up here, and it's time for me to help, where I can, to ensure their prosperity in the future of our city. As a Planning Commissioner, I believe my experience and knowledge will shine a light forward on where we are going, and also keep in mind from where we have come. We are the second largest city in our county, and we should continue leading the way, to be a good example, for others to follow.

25. I understand that to be considered, I must submit a resume along with this application.

TPJ Resume P.pdf

26. 1 understand that to be considered, I must submit a letter of reference along with this application.

IPJ Kevin Letter P.pdf

28. (o) 1am familiar with the responsibilities of the Planning Commission. I attest that the information I have provided is accurate and true.

29. (o) I understand that this application and any documents submitted in connection with the application process are public records and may be publicly disclosed.

Thank you,
City of Chula Vista
This is an automated message generated by Granicus. Please do not reply directly to this email.

TIM P JONES, AIA
Chula Vista, CA 91909 11
Summary
Innovative architect with a strong background in residential and commercial design. Demonstrated expertise in creating architectural plans, collaborating with clients to understand needs, and delivering aesthetically pleasing and functional designs. Possess strengths in project management, spatial problem-solving skills, and knowledge of construction processes. Previous work has consistently resulted in client satisfaction and creation of sustainable, cost-effective building solutions.

Skills
• Architectural design • Site analysis
• Site planning and design • Land Use Planning
• AutoCAD expertise • Community planning
• Project Planning
Experience
Architect 05/1993 to Current
TPJ Architecture Chula Vista, CA
• Coordinated activities between architects, designers, engineers and contractors throughout the duration of a project.
• Developed plans and specifications for building projects to meet the needs of clients. • Created blueprints, drawings and detailed schematics of proposed structures. • Collaborated with engineers, surveyors and contractors on various aspects of construction projects. • Created oral and written presentations for project designs and proposals. • Consulted with clients to determine spatial or functional requirements of structures. • Developed aesthetic representations of structure and construction details.

Education and Training
High School Diploma 06/1975
Hilltop Senior High School Chula Vista, CA
Certifications
• State of California Licensed Architect #C-24012
State of Arizona Licensed Architect #76670
Websites, Portfolios, Profiles
• www.TimPJones.com
MKO
M. KEVIN O'NEILL CONSTRUCTION CO., Inc.

Engineering & General Contractor License No. 377869
621 Del Mar Avenue Chula Vista, CA 91910
Tel (619) 426-3114 Fax 619) 426-6700
June 11, 2024
I have known Tim since he first started in the design profession. I have witnessed him grow and develop into a fine architect. We have done many projects together, here in Chula Vista and throughout the entire San Diego County. His success speaks for itself in longevity, and countless satisfied clients.

His vast knowledge and experience in architectural design, and the City of Chula Vista Municipal Code, will serve the Planning Commission well. I am proud to know him, to work with him, and to recommend him for acceptance as a City of Chula Vista Planning Commissioner.

Having served two terms on the planning commission myself, I know what the job entails.

Tim would bring his real time experience and expertise to the commission.

M. Kevin O'Neill
President
Janet Knowlton

CITY OF

CHULA VISTA
From: [email protected]
To: CityClerk; Karina L. Lafarga; Amanda Angulo; Audrey Malone; [email protected] Subject: City of Chula Vista - Planning Commission Application Date: Tuesday, May 20, 2025 12:25:23 PM
WARNING - This email originated from outside the City of Chula Vista. Do not click any links and do not open attachments unless you can confirm the sender.

PLEASE REPORT SUSPICIOUS EMAILS BY USING THE PHISH ALERT REPORT BUTTON or to [email protected]
A new entry to a form/survey has been submitted.

Form Name: Planning Commission Application
Date & Time: 05/20/2025 12:25 PM
Response #: 51
Submitter ID: 139451
IP address:

Time to complete: 13 min., 27 sec.

Survey Details

Page 1 ends

Application for membership on the Planning Commission

1. Prefix
(o) Ms.

2. Preferred Pronoun
10)
She/Her/Hers

3. First and Last Name
Janet Knowlton
Email

5. Home Address

6. City

CHULA VISTA

7. ZIP Code
91913
Primary Phone
Secondary Phone
Not answered

10. I certify that I am a resident of the City of Chula Vista and at least 18 years of age. (o) Yes

11. How long have you been a resident of the City?
26 years

12. Please click here to view the interactive map and verify your District of residency I am a resident of the following City Council district. (0) 3

13. Present employer
Self-Employed

14. Position
Online Sales and Marketing

15. Have you ever been employed by the City of Chula Vista? (o) Yes

16. If you have worked for the City of Chula Vista please provide the department and dates of employment.

Chula Vista Heritage Museum 2003

17. Please indicate the area(s) in which you have expertise and experience, or select None: (select as many as applicable)
[x] Urban Planning
[x] Land Planning
[x] History
[x] Other related design expertise
Project Management

18. Are you a California licensed real estate agent?
(0) No

19. If you selected one or more of the areas of expertise and experience above, please describe your expertise and experience that you would bring to the selected areas. (250 words or less) With over 15 years of experience leading complex infrastructure, IT, and real estate projects in both public and private sectors, I bring a strong foundation in urban planning, land use, history, and project management-each deeply relevant to the Planning Commission's work.

I have managed more than 75 multimillion-dollar projects across various jurisdictions, requiring careful planning, cross-functional coordination, and strategic decision-making.

Locally, I've been an active participant in the City of Chula Vista's planning process, contributing to public input sessions for both the Bayfront Development and the City's Master Plan. My background in real estate and property management has sharpened my understanding of zoning, community design, and occupancy trends-key intersections where development must balance with heritage and livability.

Serving on the Chula Vista Heritage Museum Board has further deepened my appreciation for the city's architectural and cultural history. This lens allows me to evaluate proposals not just for economic or logistical feasibility, but also for their alignment with Chula Vista's identity and long-term vision.

I am committed to community-first planning-balancing responsible growth with cultural preservation and practical functionality. As noted in my letter of reference, I bring strategic insight, a collaborative spirit, and a deep respect for diverse perspectives. My goal is to help ensure that every planning decision strengthens our city's future while honoring its past.

20. Are you currently serving on any board or commission for Chula Vista or any other governmental agency?
(o) No

21. If so, which ones?
Not answered

22. Per Chula Vista Municipal Code Section 2.25.030, I understand:
-If I am currently serving on a board or commission, I must resign from my current board or commission if l am appointed.
-I must have served at least 12 months on my current board or commission in order to be appointed to another board or commission.
(o) I have read and acknowledged the above statement.

23. What are your principal areas of interest in our City government, and what experience or special knowledge can you bring to those areas?
As evidenced by my City Of Chula Vista Volunteer Of The Year award in 2003, I am deeply interested in community planning, infrastructure development, housing accessibility, and sustainable economic growth within the City of Chula Vista.

Having spent many years in both government and private-sector leadership roles, I bring a multidisciplinary background that uniquely positions me to support forward-thinking and equitable planning decisions in our community.

My experience managing over 75 infrastructure and IT projects for the U.S. Air Force-valued at over $25 million —has given me firsthand insight into the complexities of project delivery, land use coordination, and stakeholder engagement across multiple sites. Additionally, as a design engineer and project manager for long-haul fiber-optic telecommunications projects, I developed a strong understanding of permitting processes, ROW management, and multi-agency coordination, all of which are relevant to the planning environment.

My background in real estate, marketing, and property management gives me a well-rounded view of zoning, housing trends, occupancy forecasting, and community revitalization. I also have experience working with municipalities on public-private partnerships, urban renewal initiatives, and development communication strategies from my time as a marketing and technical writer with the City of Dayton.

I am passionate about thoughtful, inclusive city planning that balances growth with the preservation of Chula Vista's character. My skills in project management, stakeholder communication, data-driven analysis, and cross-functional leadership would make me a committed and effective contributor to the Planning Commission.

24. What do you hope to accomplish in the role of a Planning Commissioner? (250 words or less) As a Planning Commissioner, I hope to contribute to the thoughtful, inclusive, and sustainable development of Chula Vista. My goal is to support balanced growth that reflects the city's diverse communities while preserving its natural assets, cultural character, and long-term livability.

With over 15 years of experience in project and program management across public and private sectors- including infrastructure, telecommunications, real estate, and government—| bring a practical, systems- level understanding of how planning decisions impact both policy and people. I aim to help the city navigate development priorities in a way that ensures transparency, fiscal responsibility, and public engagement.

Drawing from my work managing $25M+ in infrastructure projects for the U.S. Air Force, leading cross- functional initiatives in the private sector, and working in real estate and property management, I bring a strong grasp of permitting, stakeholder coordination, zoning, and land use. I also hope to bring a fresh, data-informed voice to the table-one that advocates for smart growth, housing affordability, and equitable access to resources.

I am excited to bring representation for the interests and development goals of District 3, which has not had a representative on the planning commission in the recent cycle. Above all, I want to be a collaborative partner in helping Chula Vista thrive honoring its heritage while shaping a future that benefits all residents.

25. I understand that to be considered, I must submit a resume along with this application.

City Of Chula Vista Planning Commission Resume doc

26. I understand that to be considered, I must submit a letter of reference along with this application.

Letter of Reference ICO Janet Know/ton.pdf

28. (o) 1 am familiar with the responsibilities of the Planning Commission. I attest that the information I have provided is accurate and true.

29. (o) I understand that this application and any documents submitted in connection with the application process are public records and may be publicly disclosed.

30. Where did you hear about this vacancy?
(0) City's Website
Thank you,
City of Chula Vista
This is an automated message generated by Granicus. Please do not reply directly to this email.

JANET KNOWLTON
Chula Vista, CA
Linkedin: linkedin.com/in/janet-knowlton-963057202

PROFESSIONAL SUMMARY
Experienced and community-driven project manager with over 15 years of leadership in infrastructure, real estate, public-sector communications, and historical preservation.

Demonstrated success in managing complex multi-stakeholder projects valued over $25 million, contributing to city planning initiatives, and promoting heritage conservation through civic engagement. Adept at strategic planning, stakeholder communication, and evaluating development through both practical and historical lenses. Passionate about fostering responsible, culturally respectful, and sustainable growth in the City of Chula Vista.

RELEVANT EXPERIENCE
Online Sales and Marketing
Self-Employed - Chula Visia, CA | 2017 - Present
• Conduct market trend analysis and behavioral data interpretation to forecast demand and guide decision-making-skills directly applicable to evaluating land use proposals and planning forecasts.
• Develop and implement strategic marketing and engagement campaigns, demonstrating the ability to communicate effectively with diverse stakeholders and promote community-focused initiatives.
• Optimize operational workflows and inventory strategies through performance data, showcasing a results-driven mindset and the ability to identify and solve complex logistical challenges.
• Maintain top-rated seller status and 100% customer satisfaction by resolving conflicts professionally-reflecting a commitment to transparency, public service, and trust- building.

Project & Product Manager / Space Utilization Manager
Chokehold Productions - Carson City, NV (remote) | 2000 - 2017 • Directed 75+ infrastructure and IT projects valued at over $25 million, managing planning, stakeholder coordination, and execution across multiple jurisdictions. • Developed long-term strategic plans, implemented organizational structures, and conducted occupancy and profitability forecasting
• Facilitated stakeholder engagement across departments, integrating historical and design considerations into planning processes.

U.S. Air Force - Major Command Lead Program Manager / Executive Officer Oklahoma City, OK | 1994 - 1998
• Oversaw infrastructure planning and IT installations across multiple sites, including 75+ projects and a team of six installers.
• Created project plans and schedules aligned with long-range strategic goals and regulatory standards.
• Conducted executive briefings and developed operational summaries supporting high- level decisions.

Realtor & Property Manager
ERA Dawson Realty - Fairborn, OH | 1991 - 1995
• Managed residential and commercial listings, marketing, leasing strategy, and occupancy reporting.

Analyzed local zoning trends and provided community-focused recommendations to buyers and investors.

Integrated historic preservation considerations into property marketing and development advice.

Marketing and Technical Writer
City of Dayton - Dayton, OH | 1992 - 1994
• Developed strategic marketing materials, executive proposals, and revitalization content supporting city development and leasing projects
• Communicated complex municipal planning topics to the public in accessible formats.

CIVIC ENGAGEMENT & VOLUNTEER WORK
Chula Vista Heritage Museum Board Member
Chula Vista, CA | 2003
• Contributed to strategic planning, historical preservation efforts, and public programming promoting the city's architectural and cultural history.

Chula Vista Heritage Museum Docent
Chula Vista, CA | 2003
• Educated visitors on city history and heritage through guided tours and museum events.

Cultural Arts Commission Volunteer
Chula Vista, CA | 2003
• Assisted in public outreach and community programming for Chula Vista's arts and cultural events.

Assisted with Bayfront Arts Festival
Historic Home Tour Docent
Chula Vista, CA | 2003
• Provided historical context and preservation insights during guided home tours highlighting local architecture.

Chula Vista Bayfront and Master Plan Meetings - Public Contributor Chula Vista, CA | 2003
• Participated in resident input sessions, offering feedback on community design, sustainability, and neighborhood cohesion.

Chula Vista Volunteer of the Year
City of Chula Vista | 2003
Recognized for outstanding contributions to heritage preservation, cultural advocacy, and civic planning involvement.

EDUCATION
Wright State University
B.A. in English with Concentration in Electronics Technology Oklahoma State University
Graduate Studies in Telecommunications Management

Office: (619) 483-7427
www.angproservices.com

SDVOSB, OSB, EDWOSB, DVBE
May 19, 2025
City of Chula Vista Planning Commission
276 Fourth Avenue
Chula Vista, CA 91910
RE: LETTER OF REFERENCE FOR JANET KNOWLTON
Dear Members of the Planning Commission,
It is with great enthusiasm that I write this letter of reference in support of Janet Knowlton for appointment to the Chula Vista Planning Committee. I have had the pleasure of working with Janet Knowlton in both professional and personal capacities and can attest to her deep commitment to thoughtful growth, community well-being, and sustainable urban planning.

Janet brings over 15 of experience in project management, real estate, community outreach, and public policy, and combines professional acumen with a genuine passion for inclusive development. She has been involved as a resident of Chula vista in the public planning meetings for the Bayfront Development Plan and the Chula Vista Master Plan. During our work together at A&G Professional Services LL's business expansion and hiring goals, she demonstrated strategic thinking, a collaborative spirit, and an ability to weigh both long-term goals and short-term needs-key qualities for a member of the Planning Committee.

Beyond technical competence, Janet embodies integrity, transparency, and a desire to represent the diverse voices of Chula Vista. She consistently seeks input from residents, respects differing viewpoints, and balances growth with preservation of community identity.

I believe Janet would make a valuable contribution to the Planning Committee and to the future of Chula Vista. Please feel free to contact me at [email protected] if you have any questions or would like further information.

Sincerely,
Maria Luster
President & CEO
Resident & Business Owner, City of Chula Vista
Tomas Ortiz

CITY OF

CHULA VISTA
From: [email protected]
To: CityClerk; Karina L. Lafarga; Amanda Angulo; Audrey Malone; [email protected] Subject: City of Chula Vista - Planning Commission Application Date: Friday, May 16, 20256:47:59 PM
WARNING - This email originated from outside the City of Chula Vista. Do not click any links and do not open attachments unless you can confirm the sender.

PLEASE REPORT SUSPICIOUS EMAILS BY USING THE PHISH ALERT REPORT BUTTON or to [email protected]
A new entry to a form/survey has been submitted.

Form Name: Planning Commission Application
Date & Time: 05/16/20256:47 PM
Response #: 50
Submitter ID: 139389
IP address:

Time to complete: 54 min., 41 sec.

Survey Details

Page 1 ends

Application for membership on the Planning Commission

1. Prefix
(o) Mr.

2. Preferred Pronoun
(0)
He/Him/His
First and Last Name
Tomas Ortiz
Email

5. Home Address

6. City
Chula Vista

7. ZIP Code
91910
Primary Phone
Secondary Phone
Not answered

10. I certify that I am a resident of the City of Chula Vista and at least 18 years of age. (o) Yes

11. How long have you been a resident of the City?
4 years

12. Please click here to view the interactive map and verify your District of residency I am a resident of the following City Council district. (0) 1

13. Present employer
Design Force Builders

14. Position
President/ CEO

15. Have you ever been employed by the City of Chula Vista? (o) No

16. If you have worked for the City of Chula Vista please provide the department and dates of employment.

Not answered

17. Please indicate the areas) in which you have expertise and experience, or select None: (select as many as applicable)
[x] Architecture [x] Urban Planning
[x] Architectural History [x] Planning/Environmental Planning [x] Land Planning
[x] History
[x] Other related design expertise
Design and Construction

18. Are you a California licensed real estate agent?
(o) No

19. If you selected one or more of the areas of expertise and experience above, please describe your expertise and experience that you would bring to the selected areas). (250 words or less) As an architectural designer with over a decade of experience in residential, commercial, and urban projects, 1 bring a strong foundation in architecture, land use, and planning. I hold a Bachelor of Architecture and studied in Rome, where | focused on architectural history, urban design, and the evolution of cities. This experience deepened my understanding of how planning shapes communities over time, both culturally and physically.

Throughout my career, I've worked on a wide range of projects, including adaptive reuse, infill developments, and new construction. I currently lead a design-build firm, which allows me to engage in projects from initial concept through permitting and construction. This has given me hands-on experience with zoning, entitlements, CEQA considerations, and the day-to-day realities of building in both residential neighborhoods and commercial zones.

In addition to my design background, 1 bring practical construction experience through my role as a general contractor. This perspective helps me understand how planning decisions impact feasibility, affordability, and long-term community resilience. I'm deeply committed to supporting thoughtful, inclusive development that respects both historical context and future growth.

20. Are you currently serving on any board or commission for Chula Vista or any other governmental agency?
(o) No

21. If so, which ones?
Not answered

22. Per Chula Vista Municipal Code Section 2.25.030, 1 understand:
-If I am currently serving on a board or commission, I must resign from my current board or commission if I am appointed.
-I must have served at least 12 months on my current board or commission in order to be appointed to another board or commission.
(o) I have read and acknowledged the above statement.

23. What are your principal areas of interest in our City government, and what experience or special knowledge can you bring to those areas?
I'm especially interested in how city planning, urban design, and architecture can be used as tools to foster more equitable, resilient, and connected communities. My interest in City government stems from a desire to contribute to thoughtful decision-making that reflects both long-term vision and the needs of everyday residents.

My background combines formal training in architecture, with a Bachelor of Architecture and a semester of study in Rome focused on urban history and design, with over a decade of professional experience in the design and construction industry. I lead a design-build practice where I work directly on projects that navigate zoning, permitting, and neighborhood context across Southern California.

In addition to design knowledge, 1 bring construction experience and a deep understanding of how planning decisions impact the built environment at every level-from policy to execution. I've worked on various projects, including ADUs, multi-family housing, and commercial renovations, which have taught me the importance of balancing community character, economic realities, and environmental goals.

Through this role, I hope to support inclusive, forward-thinking planning efforts that improve livability and reflect the values of those who live here.

24. What do you hope to accomplish in the role of a Planning Commissioner? (250 words or less) As a Planning Commissioner, I hope to contribute to a more thoughtful, transparent, and inclusive planning process that balances growth with long-term community needs and values. My goal is to help guide development that enhances quality of life, strengthens neighborhoods, and reflects the diversity and character of our city.

With my background in architecture, urban design, and construction, I aim to bring a practical and creative perspective to the review of projects and policies. I want to support plans that promote walkability, housing accessibility, sustainability, and economic vitality, while being sensitive to historical context and neighborhood identity.

I also hope to help bridge the gap between city processes and the public by encouraging open communication and clarity around how planning decisions are made. Good planning doesn't just solve today's problems-it sets a foundation for future generations.

Ultimately, I see this role as an opportunity to serve the community by contributing my experience to decisions that will shape our city's physical and social fabric for years to come.

25. I understand that to be considered, I must submit a resume along with this application.

IomasROrtiz_Resume.pdf

26. I understand that to be considered, I must submit a letter of reference along with this application.

LetterofReference TomasR.Ortiz.pdf

28. (o) 1am familiar with the responsibilities of the Planning Commission. I attest that the information I have provided is accurate and true.

29. (o) I understand that this application and any documents submitted in connection with the application process are public records and may be publicly disclosed

30. Where did you hear about this vacancy?
(o) City's Social Media
Thank you,
City of Chula Vista
This is an automated message generated by Granicus. Please do not reply directly to this email.

Tomas R. Ortiz, Assoc. AIA
Principal | Architectural Designer | General Contractor Education Bachelor of Architecture
Woodbury University, Burbank, CA
Urbanism, History, & Theory
Rome Center for Architecture & Culture, Rome, Italy
Certifications Associate Member, American Institute of Architects (AIA) Professional Design Force Builders - San Diego, CA
Experience Founder, Project Developer | Oct 2022 - Present Design-build general contracting firm specializing in residential and commercial projects throughout Southern California. Lead development, design, and construction for new builds, ADUs, remodels, and commercial tenant improvements. Oversee feasibility studies, permitting, and coordination with consultants and public agencies.

ORTO Studio -Los Angeles/San Diego, CA
Principal, Founding Partner | Apr 2022 - Present
Complete architecture and interior design services for commercial projects. Restaurants, Retail, Auto Dealerships, and Custom Home designs.

Flex Design Group -Los Angeles, CA
Project Manager | May 2019 - March 2022
Responsible for all aspects of design and administration for residential and commercial (car dealerships, restaurants, retail) projects.

House & Robertson Architects -Culver City, CA
Project Coordinator | Oct 2018 - May 2019
Managed and coordinated a complex mixed-use high-rise building.

Responsible for coordinating with the Civil Engineer, Landscape Architect, Structural Engineer, Façade Access, and Design Architect.

FLEX Designs -Pasadena, CA
Project Manager | Aug 2015 - Oct 2018
Responsible for managing all design aspects for commercial projects, from auto dealerships to airport concessions, retail, and restaurants. I worked on projects for major auto brands like Maserati, Alfa Romeo, Infiniti, BMW, VW, Ford, Chrysler-Jeep-Dodge-Ram.

Brock Larsen Design -Burbank CA
Architectural Designer | Aug 2013 - March 2015
Responsible for schematics, design development, and construction documentation for theme park projects. Motiongate Dubai, Universal Studios Florida, and similar projects throughout China & Dubai.

Visión
Music Agency www.visionmusicagency.com
Rebecca Niebla
President / Vision Music Agency
[email protected]
05/16/2025
To Whom It May Concern,
As a long-time resident -born and raised-of the City of Chula Vista and a fellow business owner, I am writing to enthusiastically support Tomas R.

Ortiz's application to serve on the Chula Vista Planning Commission.

Having witnessed my city grow and evolve over the years, 1 care deeply about how it continues to develop, and I believe Tomas is exactly the kind of thoughtful, community-minded leader we need in this next chapter. His deep commitment to architecture, design, and the responsible shaping of communities is evident in every aspect of his work.

With over a decade of experience in architecture and construction, Tomas brings a rare combination of creative vision and practical understanding. He's deeply attuned to how planning decisions affect daily life-housing, infrastructure, and the character of our neighborhoods. His work reflects not just professional excellence, but a genuine concern for how people interact with the built environment.

More importantly, Tomas leads with humility, integrity, and care. He approaches each project-whether in design or construction-as an opportunity to serve and uplift the community. As a lifelong resident of Chula Vista, I want to see our city grow in a way that is inclusive, sustainable, and rooted in thoughtful planning. I have no doubt that Tomas would be a valuable voice on the Planning Commission and a committed steward of our city's future.

Sincerely,
Rebecca Niebla
President/Vision Music Agency
James Smyth

CITY OF

CHULA VISTA
Marion Reynoso
From: [email protected]
Sent: Monday, July 1, 2024 11:27 AM
To: CityClerk; Karina L. Lafarga; Amanda Angulo; Marion Reynoso; Audrey Malone Subject: City of Chula Vista - Planning Commission Application WARNING - This email originated from outside the City of Chula Vista. Do not click any links and do not open attachments unless you can confirm the sender.

PLEASE REPORT SUSPICIOUS EMAILS BY USING THE PHISH ALERT REPORT BUTTON or to [email protected]
A new entry to a form/survey has been submitted
Form Name: Planning Commission Application
Date & Time: 07/01/2024 11:26 AM
Response #: 48
Submitter ID: 133165
IP address:

Time to complete: 12 min., 48 sec.

Survey Details

Page 1 ends

Application for membership on the Planning Commission

1. Prefix
(0) Mr.

2. Preferred Pronoun
Not answered

3. First and Last Name
James Smyth

4. Email

5. Home Address

6. City
Chula Vista
1 7. ZIP Code
91910

8. Primary Phone

9. Secondary Phone
Not answered

10. I certify that I am a resident of the City of Chula Vista and at least 18 years of age. (0) Yes

11. How long have you been a resident of the City?
Since around 1983

12. Please click here to view the interactive map and verify your District of residency I am a resident of the following City Council district. (0) 2

13. Present employer
Retired

14. Position
n/a

15. Have you ever been employed by the City of Chula Vista? (0) No

16. If you have worked for the City of Chula Vista please provide the department and dates of employment.

Jamul

17. Please indicate the area(s) in which you have expertise and experience, or select None: (select as many as applicable) [x] Civil Engineering

18. Are you a California licensed real estate agent?
(0) No

19. If you selected one or more of the areas of expertise and experience above, please describe your expertise and experience that you would bring to the selected area(s). (250 words or less) As a professional civil engineer, and with nearly 37 years of experience in the area of development planning in Chula Vista, National City and Bonita through employment at Sweetwater Authority, I bring expertise and experience understanding the development process.

20. Are you currently serving on any board or commission for Chula Vista or any other governmental agency? (0) No

21. If so, which ones?
2 Not answered

22. Per Chula Vista Municipal Code Section 2.25.030, I understand:
-If I am currently serving on a board or commission, I must resign from my current board or commission if 1 am appointed.
-I must have served at least 12 months on my current board or commission in order to be appointed to another board or commission.
(o) I have read and acknowledged the above statement.

23. What are your principal areas of interest in our City government, and what experience or special knowledge can you bring to those areas?
With my civil engineering background, and since I have lived in the City since around 1983, I have had an interest in how the City of Chula Vista is developed over the long term. With my engineering role at Sweetwater Authority since 1980, I have witnessed major developments on the west side of the City as well as played a personal role in the planning and construction of the associated water infrastructure. However, it is more than just water that I have interest. It is looking at development holistically with the idea of traffic, water, police, and fire enforcement, etc., is appropriately reviewed. My nearly 40 years of experience brings an above-average level of knowledge in planning and development.

24. What do you hope to accomplish in the role of a Planning Commissioner? (250 words or less) Offer engineering experience with infrastructure planning and design and 2) provide an opinion of development from wider view.

25. I understand that to be considered, I must submit a resume along with this application.

JAMES L Resume-Curric Vitae.pdf

26. I understand that to be considered, I must submit a letter of reference along with this application.

Recommend Letter.pdf

27. The City understands meeting schedules and individual's availability may change. We ask that you consider the meeting schedule when submitting an application.
(o) I have reviewed the Planning Commission regular meeting date, time and frequency.

28. (o) 1 am familiar with the responsibilities of the Planning Commission. I attest that the information I have provided is accurate and true.

29. (o) I understand that this application and any documents submitted in connection with the application process are public records and may be publicly disclosed.

Thank you,
City of Chula Vista
This is an automated message generated by Granicus. Please do not reply directly to this email. 3 Resume
JAMES L. SMYTH
Chula Vista

EDUCATION
1988 Chapman College, Orange, CA
Degree: Master of Business Administration
1979 University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA
Degree: Bachelors of Science in Civil Engineering
1979 Westmont College, Santa Barbara, CA
Degree: Bachelors of Arts in Physical Science

CAREER EMPLOYMENT HISTORY
With Sweetwater Authority:

July 2017 Retired
2010 - 2017 General Manager
2008-2010 Assistant General Manager
1997 Deputy Operations Manager/Director of Engineering
1993 - 1997 Director of Engineering
1992-1993
Aintipal engingineer
1991-1992
1989-1992 Senior Engineer
1985-1989 Associate Engineer
1982-1985 Assistant Engineer
1980-1982 Junior Engineer
1980 Poutney and Young Engineering - Engineer
1979-1980 Boyle Engineering - Engineer

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT
1981 Registered Professional Engineer (Civil) in California (RCE 35478)

COMMISSION/OVERSIGHT PARTICIPATION
2017 - 2019 Member - Chula Vista Elementary School District Independent Citizens Oversight Committee

CURRENT ACTIVTIES
James is a member of Paseo del Rey (PDR) Church in Chula Vista; a sports enthusiast; and enjoys outdoor activities and reading. James has been married to Linda for over 44 years with two daughters and six grandchildren. At PDR Church, James is responsible for annual 20 Liter fund raising event that includes coordinating the construction of simple clean water filters that are eventually shipped to World Relief Rwanda (Africa). These filters are then used by those families who otherwise do not have any source of clean drinking water. The result has been to meet the fundamental human need to sustain progress toward ending poverty, ensuring access to education, all done by improving their health standards.

Planning Commission Vacancy Recommendation - Jim Smyth
From: Bryan and Denee' Felber|
To:

Cc:

Date: Monday, July 1, 2024 at 09:13 AM PDT
Hi Laura,
My friend, Jim Smyth, will be submitting his application for the Commission. I've known Jim for 20 years or more. He is a great person.

Jim was the General Manager of the Sweetwater Authority from 2010 - 2017 when he retired. He has presented before Council in that role.

Not only does he have applicable professional credentials and knowledge, he is a person who gives and gives and gives of his time to others. He gives countless hours to people he feels he can help, to his church, and to his friends.

I could not recommend him more highly. He is very well qualified, professional, has experience dealing with the public and governmental bodies, is kind and giving, and would be a great addition to the Commission.

Regards,
Bryan
Sent from Yahoo Mail for iPhone

Chula Vista City CouncilJuly 8, 2025

Chula Vista City Council
July 8, 2025