FAIRFAX TOWN COUNCIL MEETING
SPECIAL MEETING STAFF REPORT
SPECIAL AGENDA ITEM #1
MEETING DATE: August 2, 2023
PREPARED FOR: Mayor and Town Council
PREPARED BY: Christine Foster, Deputy Town Clerk
SUBJECT: Interview and Consider Appointment of Applicant to Serve on the Fairfax Planning Commission
RECOMMENDATIONS
Interview applicant John Bela and consider his appointment to the Fairfax Planning Commission to fill an expired term to July 31, 2027.
DISCUSSION
The Planning Commission serves as an advisory body to the Town Council on planning policies and regulations. The Commission is responsible for bringing a broad variety of expertise and experience in reviewing:
• Planning applications
• Fairfax ordinances
• The Town General Plan and Housing Element.
There are currently two vacancies on the Planning Commission. The term of this vacant position is a full four-year term. The Town began soliciting for Planning Commission applications in June by advertising the vacancies on the Town’s website and in several newsletters.
FISCAL IMPACT
None.
ATTACHMENT
Application (redacted)
Boards and Commissions Application
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Q1
Contact information
Name John Bela
Address
City/Town Fairfax
ZIP/Postal Code 94939
Email Address
Phone Number
Q2
Which board or commission are you applying for?
Planning Commission
Q3
Why are you interested in serving on a board or commission? As a landscape architect and urban designer I bring close to two decades of experience in working with communities to guide growth and change in ways that are sustainable, equitable, and resilient. I would be honored to serve my community in Fairfax in this important role as we grapple with the critical issues facing the town such as equitable economic development, affordable housing, safe streets, and protecting open space.
Q4
How did you hear about this vacancy?
Town website
Q5
How long have you lived in Fairfax?
4 years
#3
COMPLETE
Collector:
Started:
Web Link 1 (Web Link)
Wednesday, June 28, 2023 6:47:09 AM
Boards and Commissions Application
2 / 2
Q6
What relevant work or life experience do you have for the board or commission you're applying for? I am a licensed landscape architect and an urban designer. I am a former partner and director at Gehl, the Danish urban design consultancy. I am a co-founder of Rebar, the creators of Park(ing) Day and the world’s first Parklets. I advised the town council on a covid economic recovery plan that resulted in the creation of the outdoor dining ordinance that has helped support local small businesses, safer streets, and community vibrancy. I have worked with numerous communites throughout the US on strategic planning and design initiatives.
Q7
What is your vision for the Town of Fairfax?
My vision for Fairfax is that we as a community continue to feel a strong sense of connection to our neighbors, that we steward the town’s inevitable growth and change in ways that are sustainable, equitable, and resilient, and that we cultivate and amplify the towns unique character for current and future generations.
Q8
Describe possible areas in which you may have a conflict of interest with the Town.
Potential involvement as a design professional in future public space improvement and or housing development projects