Cities Index.
Recreation and Parks Commission Applications

City Council/Public Finance and Economic Development Authority/Parking Authority
July 7, 2025

Document
Recreation and Parks Commission Applications
Meeting
July 7, 2025
Body
City Council/Public Finance and Economic Development Authority/Parking Authority
Original file
1.2 MB
Text extracted from the city's file for reading and search. Open the original on cityofmerced.legistar1.com. That file is the official record.

Submit Date: Jun 25, 2025
First Name
Middle
Initial
Last Name
Employer
Job Title
Email Address
Primary Phone
Alternate Phone
Street Address
Suite or Apt
City
State
Postal Code
City of Merced - Boards & Commissions
Profile
Are you 18 years of age or older? (Required)

Yes

No
Question applies to multiple boards
Do you live within the City Limits of Merced? (Required)

Yes

No
Question applies to multiple boards
Are you a registered voter in the City of Merced? (Required)

Yes

No
Which Council district do you live in?
*

District 5

Are you currently serving on a Board or Commission? If so, please list:

N/A
Which Boards would you like to apply for?
Recreation and Parks Commission: Submitted
Question applies to multiple boards
Highest Level of Education Completed:
*

Associate's Degree

Bachelor's Degree

Andrew
A
Garcia
Plantology / Cope Health
Solutions
Founder and Community
Health Worker
Andrew A Garcia
Communication
The City of Merced uses email as a preferred method of communication regarding your application.

Is this acceptable to you?

Yes

No
If you selected no, please identify how you would like to be contacted:

Interests & Experiences
Tell us about yourself, and why you are applying for this particular Board or Commission:

I’m a local small business owner and lifelong Merced resident with a deep appreciation for this city and the people who make it what it is. I run a plant shop here in town, and through that work I’ve gotten to connect with a wide range of residents—families, students, seniors, and other small business owners. I also work in community outreach, where I help people navigate everyday challenges and connect them to helpful resources.

I’m applying for these
Boards and Commissions because I care about where I live and believe in being involved.

Whether it's improving our parks, supporting local arts and events, or making sure things are fair and well-run behind the scenes, I want to play a part in keeping Merced moving in a positive direction. I bring a strong work ethic, a practical mindset, and real experience working with the public, and I’d be proud to serve the city in any of these roles.

Please list your current employer and relevant volunteer experience.

I currently work for COPE Health Solutions as a Community Health Worker, helping connect individuals and families across Merced County to healthcare, services, and support programs. I also own Plantology, a local plant shop in Merced that serves as both a small business and a community space, hosting pop-ups and events that bring people together. In both roles, I stay actively involved in local outreach, volunteering at farmers markets, neighborhood events, and other initiatives that support connection, wellness, and civic pride.

What is your understanding of the roles and responsibilities of this Board or Commission?
From what I understand, each of these Boards and Commissions plays a key role in helping the City of Merced run smoothly and serve its residents better. The Arts and Culture Advisory helps support and promote creative opportunities in the community, whether that’s public events, local artists, or cultural programs. The Personnel Board is focused on making sure hiring, discipline, and personnel policies are handled fairly and in line with city standards.

And the Parks and Recreation Commission helps guide how our parks, programs, and public spaces are used, improved, and enjoyed by everyone.

To me, being on any of these Boards
means showing up, listening, giving honest input, and working with others to make smart, practical decisions that benefit the community. It’s not about talking just to talk—it’s about being reliable, respectful, and contributing to something bigger than yourself.

Andrew A Garcia
Upload a Resume
Do you have experience or special knowledge pertaining to this Board or Commission?
While I haven’t previously served on a Board or Commission, I bring strong experience from community work and an entrepreneurial spirit that’s grounded in management, business, and economics. Running my own business has taught me the importance of leadership, problem-solving, and balancing practical needs with creative solutions. My role as a Community Health Worker has given me firsthand insight into the challenges and opportunities in Merced, and the importance of clear communication and collaboration.

I’m
confident that this background equips me with a fresh perspective and the skills needed to contribute effectively, ask thoughtful questions, and help guide decisions that benefit the community.

Any other comments you would like to add that may assist the City Council in their decision?
I believe I’m the right person for these roles because I bring real-world experience as a business owner combined with hands-on community work that keeps me connected to the people of Merced. I understand the day-to-day challenges our city faces and have the practical skills to help find effective solutions. I’m committed, dependable, and ready to bring fresh energy and a results-driven mindset to the table. Choosing me means adding a voice that’s deeply rooted in this community and focused on making meaningful, lasting improvements. I’m eager to serve and make a positive difference for all Merced residents.

Requirements
Question applies to multiple boards
AB 1234 Ethics Training
I Agree
*
Question applies to multiple boards
Attendance Policy
I Agree
*
Question applies to multiple boards
Statement of Economic Interests - FPPC Form 700
I Agree
*
AG_Resume_2025.pdf
Andrew A Garcia
Date of Birth
Question applies to multiple boards
Oath of Office
I Agree
*
Question applies to multiple boards
Public Scrutiny
I Agree
*
Question applies to multiple boards
How did you hear about this vacancy?
*

City Website

If you selected other, please indicate how you learned about the vacancy:

Demographics
Ethnicity

Hispanic

Gender

Male

Submission
I declare under penalty of disqualification or termination that all statements in this application are true and complete to the best of my knowledege.

AG
Andrew A Garcia
Andrew
Garcia

ㅡ
Skills
● Excellent Oral and Written Communication
● Fluent in English & Spanish
● Proficient in Microsoft Office and Google Workspace
● Client Advocacy
● Care Coordination
● Cultural Competency
● Supervision
ㅡ
Experience Marketing Manager / Plantology
2023 - Present
Develop and implement marketing strategies to enhance brand visibility and customer engagement. Build strong community relationships through events, workshops, and outreach initiatives. Collaborate with local businesses and organizations to drive foot traffic and foster a vibrant plant-loving community. Oversee branding, social media, and promotional campaigns to support business growth.

Operations Manager / All American Trucking & Transport 2011 - 2024
Led and optimized logistics operations, enhancing efficiency , reducing costs, and
ensuring regulatory compliance. Managed high-volume shipments with seamless execution while leading a high-performing team to drive productivity and customer satisfaction. Implemented process improvements that streamlined workflows, increased scalability, and maximized profitability.

Office Coordinator / Menlo Suite Executive Offices
2009 - 2011
Provided professional front desk support, greeting clients and directing them to the

appropriate departments. Managed administrative tasks, including scheduling appointments, handling deposits, and maintaining accurate records. Oversaw office operations by coordinating supply orders, preparing mail, and managing a multi-line phone system.
ㅡ
Education University of California, Merced / 2020-2022 Management, Business, and Management
Merced College / 2018-2020
Business Management

Submit Date: Jun 05, 2025
First Name
Middle
Initial
Last Name
Employer
Job Title
Email Address
Primary Phone
Alternate Phone
Street Address
Suite or Apt
City
State
Postal Code
City of Merced - Boards & Commissions
Profile
Are you 18 years of age or older? (Required)

Yes

No
Question applies to multiple boards
Do you live within the City Limits of Merced? (Required)

Yes

No
Question applies to multiple boards
Are you a registered voter in the City of Merced? (Required)

Yes

No
Which Council district do you live in?
*

District 5

Are you currently serving on a Board or Commission? If so, please list:

Recreation and parks
Which Boards would you like to apply for?
Recreation and Parks Commission: Submitted
Question applies to multiple boards
Highest Level of Education Completed:
*

Bachelor's Degree

April
P
Holloway
Stoneridge Christian
Teacher
April P Holloway
Upload a Resume
Communication
The City of Merced uses email as a preferred method of communication regarding your application.

Is this acceptable to you?

Yes

No
If you selected no, please identify how you would like to be contacted:

Interests & Experiences
Tell us about yourself, and why you are applying for this particular Board or Commission:

I am Interested in being in the board because I am a mother of two young children and I would love to see the community grow for the children here in Merced. I am passionate about Merced and growing and it becoming bigger and better! Please list your current employer and relevant volunteer experience.

Right now I am a student in a teaching credential program. I have a passion for the youth in Merced and I am currently observing a 1st grade class a Rivera Elementary. I used to work at Fresno Pacific University a Merced Campus where I was the assistant director for operations.

There I feel a lot with budgeting growing the campus doing what benefits are students and overall keeping the campus clean and presentable. I would love to continue that with our parks.

What is your understanding of the roles and responsibilities of this Board or Commission?
Right now my understanding is it that much but I hope that it has a lot to do with knowing the budget what we can do with that budget and what decisions we can make on stretching that out as much as possible. I also love planning events and I would love to help out with things that are happening at our parks help spread community involvement.

Do you have experience or special knowledge pertaining to this Board or Commission?
Reapplying on the board
Any other comments you would like to add that may assist the City Council in their decision?
I know I don’t have much experience but I would love for the opportunity for someone to take a chance on me and see my passion for not just the parks and rec but Merced in general. I have kids of a mixed race I am Mexican and my husband is black and I want to make Merced a safe place for people of all races and feel like I can start doing that with our parks.

Requirements
April P Holloway
Question applies to multiple boards
AB 1234 Ethics Training
I Agree
*
Question applies to multiple boards
Attendance Policy
I Agree
*
Question applies to multiple boards
Statement of Economic Interests - FPPC Form 700
I Agree
*
Question applies to multiple boards
Oath of Office
I Agree
*
Question applies to multiple boards
Public Scrutiny
I Agree
*
Question applies to multiple boards
How did you hear about this vacancy?
*

Other

If you selected other, please indicate how you learned about the vacancy:

Facebook
Demographics
April P Holloway
Date of Birth
Ethnicity

Hispanic

Gender

Female

Submission
I declare under penalty of disqualification or termination that all statements in this application are true and complete to the best of my knowledege.

AH
April P Holloway
Submit Date: Mar 07, 2025
First Name
Middle
Initial
Last Name
Employer
Job Title
Email Address
Primary Phone
Alternate Phone
Street Address
Suite or Apt
City
State
Postal Code
City of Merced - Boards & Commissions
Profile
Are you 18 years of age or older? (Required)

Yes

No
Question applies to multiple boards
Do you live within the City Limits of Merced? (Required)

Yes

No
Question applies to multiple boards
Are you a registered voter in the City of Merced? (Required)

Yes

No
Which Council district do you live in?
*

District 1

Are you currently serving on a Board or Commission? If so, please list:
no
Which Boards would you like to apply for?
Recreation and Parks Commission: Submitted
Question applies to multiple boards
Highest Level of Education Completed:
*

Master's Degree

Dina
Gonzalez
Dinas Daycare and Preschool
Teacher
Dina Gonzalez
Upload a Resume
Communication
The City of Merced uses email as a preferred method of communication regarding your application.

Is this acceptable to you?

Yes

No
If you selected no, please identify how you would like to be contacted:

Interests & Experiences
Tell us about yourself, and why you are applying for this particular Board or Commission:

Provide help families and children in the community keeping areas clean and safety.

Please list your current employer and relevant volunteer experience.

I work in the community providing support families to have a safety and health environment What is your understanding of the roles and responsibilities of this Board or Commission?
To assist and to provide support families and community members Do you have experience or special knowledge pertaining to this Board or Commission?
Yes, many years ago i assist families and be a voice for the community.

Any other comments you would like to add that may assist the City Council in their decision?
Keep in mind that we are here to provide support in the community and make a difference in the lives of their residents a better, safe.

Requirements
Question applies to multiple boards
AB 1234 Ethics Training
I Agree
*
SCHOOL_AGE_Dinas_Resume_small_up_dated_July_30.docx
Dina Gonzalez
Date of Birth
Question applies to multiple boards
Attendance Policy
I Agree
*
Question applies to multiple boards
Statement of Economic Interests - FPPC Form 700
I Agree
*
Question applies to multiple boards
Oath of Office
I Agree
*
Question applies to multiple boards
Public Scrutiny
I Agree
*
Question applies to multiple boards
How did you hear about this vacancy?
*

A Friend

If you selected other, please indicate how you learned about the vacancy:

Friend
Demographics
Ethnicity

Hispanic

Gender

Female

Submission
Dina Gonzalez
I declare under penalty of disqualification or termination that all statements in this application are true and complete to the best of my knowledege.

CA
Dina Gonzalez

Dina Gonzalez

Objective: To a challenging position as an Early Childhood Education specialist Or child care site supervisor, utilizing my verbal, written and interpersonal communication skills.

Experience
Dina’s Daycare and Preschool Merced CA September 2014 to Present Program Director of a child care facility, working with families and children.

Supervising staff, food menus, daily signing sheets, Payroll and office work.

Working in the classroom and developing a daily lesson plan for children to learn.

Mentor Program Merced Office of Education Merced CA March 2009 to June 2014 Working in the childcare provider setting changing the environment Administration Filing, documentation, advertising supervising their environment Dina Family Daycare Merced CA- October 2007 to 2014 Child Care Provider _ October 2007 to Present
Providing care for all different ages, work as a private day care Meals, Administration, Education Curriculum, Parent conference. Participating Programs, RTT race to the top, PTIC, CIP, Mini Grants with first five. 4’cs of Santa Clara County San Jose CA- March 2007 to October 2007 Assistant Provider Coordinator March 2007 to October 2007 Home visits and working with families, parent conference.

Economics & Social opportunities Inc. San Jose CA- March 2005 to March 2007 Early Childhood Education Coordinator – October 2006 to March 2007

Assist Providers in scheduling parent conference to review child development progress summary.

Plan and implements activities and or in services training for providers parents and staff Complete the family daycare home environmental rating scale with plan of action.

Inputs developmental profiles data into computerized system according to the department schedule
Follow the center agency polices and procedure for health and safety Monitor clients for compliance with program regulations and requirements Maintain excellent customer/ client relationship

Associate Teacher Child care Center – March 2005- 2006
Prepare weekly lesson plan that support areas of indemnifies desire results for individual/ groups.

Communication positively and actively develops reciprocal notes.

File developmental profile with observation and anecdotal notes.

Complete multiple reports within tight dead line restrictions, parents and director.

San Jose Unified School District- January 2004 to 2004
Extended Day Care Program Director
Maintain accurate client billing / payment system.

Create monthly schedule for client appointments
Prioritize and implement multiple projects
References available upon request Assist program coordinate in maintaining daily operations Our Savior Lutheran Preschool – June 1996 to 2002
Preschool Teacher
Staff supervision, including scheduling
In charge of a class of children 3 to 5 years of age
Creative Art curriculum and high scope
Weekly lesson plan and daily activities
Special Skills & Abilities
Ability in establishing, preparing and maintaining reports and record related to assigned Ability to manage time and work independently
Ability to foster and maintain excellent peer and customer/ client relations Bilingual: English / Spanish
Education: Ashford University M.A in Early Childhood Education Chapman University B.A in Early Childhood Education
M.A Completed Education: 33. Units need more 3 to finished Ashford University San Jose City College and Long Beach City College
Certificate: Child Development Site Supervisor Permit, Program Director permit Early Child Growth and Interaction
Finance and Insurance Management

Submit Date: Jun 02, 2025
First Name
Middle
Initial
Last Name
Employer
Job Title
Email Address
Primary Phone
Alternate Phone
Street Address
Suite or Apt
City
State
Postal Code
City of Merced - Boards & Commissions
Profile
Are you 18 years of age or older? (Required)

Yes

No
Question applies to multiple boards
Do you live within the City Limits of Merced? (Required)

Yes

No
Question applies to multiple boards
Are you a registered voter in the City of Merced? (Required)

Yes

No
Which Council district do you live in?
*

District 5

Are you currently serving on a Board or Commission? If so, please list:

N/A
Which Boards would you like to apply for?
Recreation and Parks Commission: Submitted
Question applies to multiple boards
Highest Level of Education Completed:
*

Some College, No Degree

Jeremy
L
Jenkins
4Life Church
Administrative Assistant
Jeremy L Jenkins
Upload a Resume
Communication
The City of Merced uses email as a preferred method of communication regarding your application.

Is this acceptable to you?

Yes

No
If you selected no, please identify how you would like to be contacted:

Interests & Experiences
Tell us about yourself, and why you are applying for this particular Board or Commission:

I served in the past and I would love to serve my / Our community once again on this commission
Please list your current employer and relevant volunteer experience. 4Life Church
Friends of Sober Grad
MLK committee
Hispanic chamber member
What is your understanding of the roles and responsibilities of this Board or Commission?
To be in a advisory role to the city council that is about our parks and recreation and zoo and facilities
Do you have experience or special knowledge pertaining to this Board or Commission?
Yes I was a past commissioner
Any other comments you would like to add that may assist the City Council in their decision?
I’m very outgoing and open to serving my community and I hope you would give me another opportunity.

Requirements
Question applies to multiple boards
AB 1234 Ethics Training
I Agree
*
Jeremy L Jenkins
Date of Birth
Question applies to multiple boards
Attendance Policy
I Agree
*
Question applies to multiple boards
Statement of Economic Interests - FPPC Form 700
I Agree
*
Question applies to multiple boards
Oath of Office
I Agree
*
Question applies to multiple boards
Public Scrutiny
I Agree
*
Question applies to multiple boards
How did you hear about this vacancy?
*

Other

If you selected other, please indicate how you learned about the vacancy:

Facebook
Demographics
Ethnicity

Hispanic

Gender

Male

Submission
Jeremy L Jenkins
I declare under penalty of disqualification or termination that all statements in this application are true and complete to the best of my knowledege. jj
Jeremy L Jenkins
Submit Date: Jun 27, 2025
First Name
Middle
Initial
Last Name
Employer
Job Title
Email Address
Primary Phone
Alternate Phone
Street Address
Suite or Apt
City
State
Postal Code
City of Merced - Boards & Commissions
Profile
Are you 18 years of age or older? (Required)

Yes

No
Question applies to multiple boards
Do you live within the City Limits of Merced? (Required)

Yes

No
Question applies to multiple boards
Are you a registered voter in the City of Merced? (Required)

Yes

No
Which Council district do you live in?
*

District 5

Are you currently serving on a Board or Commission? If so, please list:

Which Boards would you like to apply for?
Recreation and Parks Commission: Submitted
Question applies to multiple boards
Highest Level of Education Completed:
*

Master's Degree

Xerxes
Zangeneh
Xerxes Zangeneh
Upload a Resume
Communication
The City of Merced uses email as a preferred method of communication regarding your application.

Is this acceptable to you?

Yes

No
If you selected no, please identify how you would like to be contacted:

Interests & Experiences
Tell us about yourself, and why you are applying for this particular Board or Commission:

As a student at the UC and an active community member, I want to not only hold the council accountable, but also do my civic duty and contribute to helping make decisions about our city.

Please list your current employer and relevant volunteer experience.

I am currently a graduate student at the university, an experienced organizer with years of experience, and have often attended city council meetings.

What is your understanding of the roles and responsibilities of this Board or Commission?
Recreation and Parks: To ensure the city is responsibly administering and managing its parks and their respective operations.

Planning: Reviewing specific developments and updating the public on changes to the General Plan. Additionally, studying zoning and planning, and making recommendations to the Council on such matters.

Do you have experience or special knowledge pertaining to this Board or Commission?
I have personally studied city planning and urban design for many years.

Any other comments you would like to add that may assist the City Council in their decision?
Requirements
Question applies to multiple boards
AB 1234 Ethics Training
I Agree
*
TA_Resume.docx
Xerxes Zangeneh
Date of Birth
Question applies to multiple boards
Attendance Policy
I Agree
*
Question applies to multiple boards
Statement of Economic Interests - FPPC Form 700
I Agree
*
Question applies to multiple boards
Oath of Office
I Agree
*
Question applies to multiple boards
Public Scrutiny
I Agree
*
Question applies to multiple boards
How did you hear about this vacancy?
*

Other

If you selected other, please indicate how you learned about the vacancy:

Instagram Post by the City
Demographics
Ethnicity

Caucasian/Non-Hispanic

Gender

Male

Submission
Xerxes Zangeneh
I declare under penalty of disqualification or termination that all statements in this application are true and complete to the best of my knowledege.

XZ
Xerxes Zangeneh
Xerxes Zangeneh

EDUCATION University of California, Merced
Graduation: May 2025 Master of Science in Bioengineering
Graduation: May 2023 Bachelor of Science in Bioengineering | Minor in Management, Analytics, and Decision-Making Accomplishments
Chancellor's Scholars List Spring 2020 Dean’s Scholars List Fall 2019, Fall 2021
Innovate To Grow - Top Finisher Spring 2023

WORK EXPERIENCE

Gopinath Lab (UCM) January 2024 - Present Bioengineering Graduate Student Researcher
● Imaging colony-level effects of surfactants on S. marcescens ● Imaging swarming S. marcescens on the cellular level to analyze the cooperative nature of swarming bacteria ● Isolating and producing bacterial stock of S. marcescens Bioengineering Department August 2024 - Present Teaching Assistant
● Teaching and guiding students through introductory python ● Instructing students to implement vast range of data visualization techniques Newport Labs May 2022 – January 2023

Lab Technician/Lab Assistant
● Worked as a PCR Lab Technician, testing thousands of patients a night for COVID-19 and influenza ● Trained new employees on the entire process chain from beginning to end, and had extensive knowledge of the procedure

UC Merced NASA/MACES Partnership October 2021 - May 2022 Biochemistry and Biosensors Fellow
Worked under Dr. Tao Ye
● Built Carbon-Nanotube-based electronic detectors for sensitive and critical gas concentrations in air ● Used gold nanoparticles and functionalized DNA to make visual indicators and detectors of COVID-19

KEY SKILLS

● Mammalian cell culture
● Bacterial cell culture
● Brightfield and fluorescence microscopy
● Familiar with BSL1 and BSL2 Laboratory Practices
● Proficient in Matlab, Python, ImageJ/FIJI

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