Submit Date: Feb 10, 2026
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City of Merced - Boards & Commissions
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Are you 18 years of age or older? (Required)
Yes
No
Which Council district do you live in?
*
District 4
Are you currently serving on a Board or Commission? If so, please list:
N/A
Which Boards would you like to apply for?
Citizens' Stipend Setting Commission: Submitted
Communication
The City of Merced uses email as a preferred method of communication regarding your application.
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Nichole
Barron
County of Merced
Staff Services Analyst
Nichole Barron
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Interests & Experiences
Tell us about yourself, and why you are applying for this particular Board or Commission:
I am a City of Merced resident with a professional background in public administration at the county level. My work focuses on analysis, coordination, and ensuring that public processes are carried out transparently and responsibly.
I am applying for the Citizens’ Stipend Setting
Commission because I value accountability in local government and believe compensation decisions should be thoughtful, well-informed, and made with public trust in mind. This commission plays an important role in providing an independent, community-based perspective, and I am interested in contributing in a way that is objective, balanced, and respectful of the responsibilities of elected officials and the community they serve.
Please list your current employer and relevant volunteer experience.
I am currently employed by Merced County in a public administration role. My work involves analytical review, coordination with multiple departments, and supporting transparent and compliant decision-making processes.
I have also volunteered in various community and
school-related roles, supporting local programs and events. These experiences have reinforced the importance of civic engagement, collaboration, and listening to diverse perspectives within the community.
What is your understanding of the roles and responsibilities of this Board or Commission?
The Citizens’ Stipend Setting Commission is responsible for reviewing and evaluating the monthly stipends paid to City Council members and the Mayor and making a recommendation for the upcoming term. This includes reviewing comparable data from similar jurisdictions, considering the scope of responsibilities associated with elected office, and receiving public input through hearings.
The Commission’s role is advisory and intended
to provide an independent, transparent, and community-focused recommendation to the City Council, ensuring that stipend decisions are fair, reasonable, and made in the public eye.
Do you have experience or special knowledge pertaining to this Board or Commission?
My professional experience in public administration has given me familiarity with compensation review processes, comparative analysis, and the importance of transparency and public accountability in government decision-making. I am comfortable reviewing data, listening to public input, and weighing multiple factors to arrive at a balanced recommendation.
While I am not seeking to represent any particular interest, I bring an analytical perspective and a strong respect for the role of civilian oversight in local governance.
Any other comments you would like to add that may assist the City Council in their decision?
I am committed to approaching this role with professionalism, objectivity, and respect for the public process. I understand the importance of maintaining public trust and would take seriously the responsibility of serving as an impartial member of the Commission.
Requirements
NicholeBarron_2025_resume_UPDATED_12-
31-25.pdf
Nichole Barron
Date of Birth
If you selected other, please indicate how you learned about the vacancy:
LinkedIn post
Demographics
Ethnicity
Other
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.
NB
Nichole Barron
NICHOLE BARRON
Professional Summary
Public administration professional with hands-on experience supporting complex County operations, infrastructure projects, and cross-department initiatives. Proven ability to manage complex contracts and leases, oversee grant-funded projects, coordinate with engineers and external consultants, and support operational readiness across multi-use facilities. Experienced in Board processes, fiscal oversight, and cross-department collaboration, with a strong understanding of how administrative, engineering, and economic development functions intersect. Prepared to support the operational, leasing, and compliance needs of Castle Commerce Center during its next phase of growth.
Core Competencies
Administrative Operations & Process Improvement, Budget Monitoring & Fiscal Controls, Policy Development & Implementation, Cross-Departmental Coordination, Contract & Lease Management, Grant Writing & Compliance, Safety Program & Committee Oversight, Team Leadership & Staff Development
Key Achievements
• Lead departmental coordination for implementation of OpenGov Asset Management system, working with vendor and internal teams (Finance, IT, GIS) to streamline data integration and reporting.
• Oversaw monthly Sheriff Department mileage reconciliation (~$200K/month), ensuring accurate interdepartmental billing and journal entries on behalf of Fleet. • Collaborated with Risk Management to restart and update the Department’s Injury & Illness Prevention Plan (IIPP) after prior lapses, and currently partnering with Roads Division leadership to modernize department-wide safety policies, procedures, and compliance systems.
• Authored the Department’s Workplace Violence Prevention Program (WVPP) Addendum Training and assisted in development of policies and onboarding materials. • Spearheaded lease and contract record recovery and reform, identifying undocumented agreements, standardizing templates with County Counsel, and restoring compliance across multiple community facilities.
• Developed and submitted multiple multimillion-dollar grant applications including CMAQ ($4M awarded, $1.7M pending) and SJVCPD ($60K), aligning departmental projects with regional sustainability goals.
• Collaborated with executive leadership to strengthen departmentwide transparency and communication through modernization and process improvements, including improved routing workflows, standardized templates, and data-driven tracking tools.
Professional Experience
Staff Services Analyst • Merced County Department of Public Works April 2024 – Present
• Coordinate administrative systems and lead process improvements that enhance departmental efficiency, transparency, and compliance.
• Prepare, route, and coordinate Board of Supervisors agenda items related to contracts, leases, capital projects, and grant-funded infrastructure initiatives, ensuring fiscal accuracy and compliance.
• Lead implementation of the OpenGov Asset Management system to support long-term infrastructure tracking, asset planning, and operational decision-making across divisions. • Oversee department safety and compliance committees; collaborated with Risk to update IIPP and WVPP programs.
• Provided interim fiscal and administrative support during departmental staffing transition, ensuring uninterrupted operations and compliance.
• Manage interdepartmental mileage billing (~$200K monthly), ensuring fiscal accuracy, audit readiness, and timely cost recovery.
• Assist with grant application development, performance reporting, and compliance tracking — contributing to over $4 million in awarded funding. • Develop and maintain dashboards, trackers, and templates to standardize documentation and improve communication across divisions. • Support executive management in identifying and addressing administrative gaps, contributing to modernization and long-term operational planning.
Accounting Technician • Merced County Department of Public Works January 2024 – April 2024
• Processed vendor payments, journal entries, and reconciliations with accuracy and attention to audit requirements.
• Trained incoming staff on fiscal workflows and documentation standards. • Collaborated with Fiscal and Administrative Services leadership to resolve outstanding account and billing discrepancies.
Office Assistant • Merced County Department of Public Works December 2020 – January 2024
• Supported division operations, documentation, and customer service functions. • Created internal training manual to standardize office procedures.
Private Sector Operations & Facilities Management Experience • 2010 -2023 (Including Roles with Dickey’s Barbecue Pit, 7-Eleven, and Regional Franchise Operations) • Supervised and developed teams of up to 20 employees directly and 70 indirectly across five regional locations, ensuring alignment with corporate standards and local regulations. • Managed full-cycle HR responsibilities, including recruitment, onboarding, scheduling, performance evaluations, corrective actions, and terminations, maintaining compliance with state labor laws and company policy.
• Led regional transition plan to standardize operations, introducing performance metrics and process consistency that improved efficiency and accountability. • Used sales data and merchandising performance indicators to guide operational decisions, identify growth opportunities, and respond to changing market conditions. • Oversaw daily operations, cost control, inventory integrity, and labor optimization to meet financial and service goals.
• Trained new managers in HR policy interpretation, safety compliance, and customer- service leadership to strengthen regional performance.
Community & Board Leadership
Director of Communications • Weaver Performing Arts Boosters 2025 – Present
• Lead marketing, public relations, and sponsorship outreach for nonprofit supporting local performing arts programs.
• Manage social media strategy, donor relations, and event communications for high- visibility fundraisers.
• Develop content, branding, and community engagement materials aligning with organizational mission and County partnership efforts.
Secretary / Board Member • Mujeres Adelante Inc.
2024 – Present
• Support executive leadership in strategic planning, communications, and board development for nonprofit serving Merced County residents. • Develop outreach materials, manage community resource binders, and coordinate social media and volunteer engagement.
• Contribute to fundraising and partnership initiatives promoting equitable access to local services.
Education
Bachelor of Science, Public Administration – In Progress (Expected April 2027) University of Phoenix
Associate of Science, Business Management – San Joaquin Valley College, Fresno, CA Certifications & Training
• Grant Writing Certificate – University of South Carolina • Workplace Violence Prevention Program (WVPP) Training Developer • Safety Committee Oversight & IIPP Compliance
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Interests & Experiences
Tell us about yourself, and why you are applying for this particular Board or Commission:
I believe in supporting our community and believe and care about the persons who serve on the council and support our city by working at the various jobs of the city.
Please list your current employer and relevant volunteer experience.
I am retired. I have volunteered in several organizations and held a variety of board positions in those organizations as well as a team member on many committees. I have worked on three statewide conventions that required working with people from across the state and merging our ideas together. Currently I volunteer at the Merced County Courthouse Museum as both a docent and a member of the Museum committee. I have worked both in the private and government sectors. My work experience has included not only being familiar with working accounting and computers but also working with fellow employees and the public.
What is your understanding of the roles and responsibilities of this Board or Commission?
My understanding of this Commission is that it determines the stipend amount for the City Council Members and the Mayor. Commission members should be able to organize input from a variety of sources and be part of a team to determine the amount of the stipend.
Do you have experience or special knowledge pertaining to this Board or Commission?
My experience is understanding the basics of accounting and knowledge of expenses and the purpose of budgets. I have previously served on this commission and would like to again serve.
Any other comments you would like to add that may assist the City Council in their decision?
I am a person who has experience in listening to all sides and I make decisions based on both facts and comments voiced by others.
Requirements
If you selected other, please indicate how you learned about the vacancy:
Subscribe Merced
Demographics
Applicant_Belinda_Burnett___Stipend_Commission_2024.pdf Belinda G Burnett
Belinda Burnett
Home Phone:
Email:
Objective:
I am applying to serve on the Citizen’s Stipend Setting Commission.
Qualifications:
I have lived in Merced for over 30 years and my work and volunteer experience has provided me a background in accounting, computers and working with a variety of individuals.
Volunteer Organizations:
Merced County Courthouse Museum: as both a docent and committee member P.E.O. (Philanthropic Educational Organization): provides technical and educational scholarships.
Past Organizations: Merced Music Guild, Harmony Valley Chorus (singer and director), Merced Community Band, Girl Scouts and Masonic organizations.
Work Experience:
City of Merced: Software Analyst III - Retired. Worked 1988 - 2016.
Sierra Beverage: Computer Operator - 9 years
Service Paper Products: Secretary and Computer Operator - 1 year Delicato Vineyards: Secretary, accounting, transportation coordinator—7 years
Submit Date: Feb 09, 2026
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
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?
Citizens' Stipend Setting Commission: Submitted
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:
Jeremy
L
Jenkins
4Life international
Assistant Administrator
Jeremy L Jenkins
Interests & Experiences
Tell us about yourself, and why you are applying for this particular Board or Commission:
am interested in serving on the Citizens Stipend setting Commission because I care deeply about the city I live in and the people who call it home. I believe meaningful change happens when residents are involved, informed, and willing to serve. This commission provides an opportunity to listen, learn, and contribute to decisions that directly impact our community.
A little about me: I am actively involved in community and service-based efforts, working with people from diverse backgrounds. Through this involvement, I’ve learned the importance of collaboration, accountability, and respectful dialogue. I value transparency and fairness, and I strive to approach issues with an open mind and a solutions-oriented perspective.
I am interested in bringing a grounded, community-focused voice to the commission—one that represents everyday residents and helps ensure decisions are made with the well-being of the entire community in mind.
Please list your current employer and relevant volunteer experience.
Current Employer: 4Life Church – Assistant Administrator In my role as Assistant
Administrator at 4Life Church, I support day-to-day operations, coordination of events, and community-focused initiatives. This position has strengthened my organizational skills, attention to detail, and ability to work collaboratively with diverse groups of people.
Volunteer Experience: I am actively involved in volunteer efforts that promote positive engagement and community development. My volunteer experience includes serving with the Greater Merced Black Chamber of Commerce, supporting Sober Grad events, and participating in Merced Got Talent. In addition, I regularly assist with community efforts and events wherever support is needed to encourage unity, mentorship, and positive opportunities for residents.
Through both my employment and volunteer work, I remain committed to contributing time, leadership, and service toward initiatives that strengthen our community.
What is your understanding of the roles and responsibilities of this Board or Commission?
A City Citizens Stipend-Setting Commission is an independent group of residents appointed to review and recommend the amount of stipends or compensation paid to elected city officials, such as the City Council and the Mayor. The commission helps ensure that decisions about elected officials’ compensation are fair, reasonable, and transparent, while maintaining public trust and accountability. By having citizens—not elected officials themselves—make these recommendations, it reduces conflicts of interest and strengthens confidence in local government.
Do you have experience or special knowledge pertaining to this Board or Commission?
While I have not previously served on a formal stipend-setting or compensation commission, I do have relevant experience that aligns with the work of this commission. Through my roles in church administration and community organizations, I have been involved in discussions related to budgeting, resource allocation, accountability, and decision-making that balances financial responsibility with fairness.
I regularly work with diverse groups, listen to differing perspectives, and help support decisions that serve the broader community rather than individual interests. I also understand the importance of transparency and public trust when making recommendations that impact leadership and public resources.
Jeremy L Jenkins
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Date of Birth
Any other comments you would like to add that may assist the City Council in their decision?
I respectfully ask for your consideration to serve on this commission. I am committed to approaching this role with fairness, transparency, and integrity, and to representing the interests of our community with care and responsibility. It would be an honor to serve the city and contribute to work that strengthens public trust in local government.
Requirements
If you selected other, please indicate how you learned about the vacancy:
Facebook
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.
JJ
NEW2024-RESUME-JJ.pdf
Jeremy L Jenkins
Submit Date: Mar 05, 2026
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City of Merced - Boards & Commissions
Profile
Are you 18 years of age or older? (Required)
Yes No
Which Council district do you live in? *
District 6
Are you currently serving on a Board or Commission? If so, please list:
No
Which Boards would you like to apply for?
Citizens' Stipend Setting Commission: Submitted
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:
Steve D. Kuykendall
Atwater ESD Principal
Steve D. Kuykendall
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Interests & Experiences
Tell us about yourself, and why you are applying for this particular Board or Commission:
I believe in being involved in our community. In the past I have been on the Recreation and Parks Commission. I have lived in Merced for the last 30 + years.
Please list your current employer and relevant volunteer experience.
Atwater ESD Merced Disc Golf Club Bear Creek Yacht Club Yosemite Church Governing Council
What is your understanding of the roles and responsibilities of this Board or Commission?
The role of the commission is to review and recommend monthly pay for the City Council and the Mayor for the upcoming two year terms.
Do you have experience or special knowledge pertaining to this Board or Commission?
No, I do not.
Any other comments you would like to add that may assist the City Council in their decision?
I believe that I would be a solid candidate for this commission based on my experience in education, as part of the community, and due to my experience on the Parks and Recreation Commission.
Requirements
If you selected other, please indicate how you learned about the vacancy:
Facebook Post
Demographics
Steve D. Kuykendall
Date of Birth
Ethnicity
Caucasian/Non-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.
SDK
Steve D. Kuykendall
Submit Date: Feb 10, 2026
First Name
Middle
Initial
Last Name
Employer
Job Title
Email Address
Primary Phone
Alternate Phone
Street Address
Suite or Apt
City
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City of Merced - Boards & Commissions
Profile
Are you 18 years of age or older? (Required)
Yes
No
Which Council district do you live in?
*
District 6
Are you currently serving on a Board or Commission? If so, please list:
No
Which Boards would you like to apply for?
Citizens' Stipend Setting Commission: Submitted
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:
email
Lee
P
Retired.
Worked for the City
of Merced for 26.5 years
Lee P
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Interests & Experiences
Tell us about yourself, and why you are applying for this particular Board or Commission:
I have an abiding interest in good local government.
I worked for the City of Merced for 26.5
years.
At retirement, I was in-charge of the Housing Program, Code Enforcement, the Merced Regional Airport, and the Recreation Department, which included the Merced Zoo.
Please list your current employer and relevant volunteer experience.
I am retired
What is your understanding of the roles and responsibilities of this Board or Commission?
This commission periodically reviews data and makes recommendations regarding compensation for members of the Merced City Council and Mayor.
Do you have experience or special knowledge pertaining to this Board or Commission?
In my work life, I had to use data, regulations, communication and common-sense in order to provide excellent customer service to our citizens.
Any other comments you would like to add that may assist the City Council in their decision?
I am a reasonable person and am always dedicated to good communication. I am very Cartesian. I speak directly and encourage open communication in others. I understand data.
Requirements
If you selected other, please indicate how you learned about the vacancy:
Facebook
Demographics
Lee P
Date of Birth
Ethnicity
Caucasian/Non-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.
LP
Lee P
Submit Date: Feb 27, 2026
First Name
Middle
Initial
Last Name
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Job Title
Email Address
Primary Phone
Alternate Phone
Street Address
Suite or Apt
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City of Merced - Boards & Commissions
Profile
Are you 18 years of age or older? (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:
Weaver USD Measure K CBOC
Which Boards would you like to apply for?
Citizens' Stipend Setting Commission: Submitted
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:
Amanda
Estrada
Amanda Estrada
Interests & Experiences
Tell us about yourself, and why you are applying for this particular Board or Commission:
I am currently enrolled in school pursuing a degree in Psychology, with a strong interest in community well-being, fairness, and public service. In addition to my educational goals, I am an actively involved parent at Pioneer Elementary School, where I serve as Vice Chair of the School Site Council. In this role, I collaborate with other members to review policies, discuss budgeting priorities, and make thoughtful decisions that serve students and families.
I am
applying to serve on the Citizens Stipend Setting Council because I value transparency, accountability, and responsible stewardship of public funds. I believe decisions regarding stipends for elected officials should be made thoughtfully, fairly, and with the best interest of the community in mind. I would be honored to contribute to a process that ensures compensation is reasonable, balanced, and reflective of community standards.
Serving on
this council would also allow me to be an active participant in local governance and demonstrate to my daughter the importance of civic engagement, integrity, and community involvement. I am committed to being fair, open-minded, and dedicated in representing the interests of our city.
Please list your current employer and relevant volunteer experience.
I am currently employed with Recovery Solutions. I serve as Vice Chair of the Pioneer Elementary School Site Council, and this is my second year on the council, though my first year in the Vice Chair role. In this position, I collaborate with school leadership and fellow council members to review plans, discuss budgeting priorities, and support initiatives that benefit students and families. I am also serving my first year on the Weaver USD Measure K Citizens’ Bond Oversight Committee (CBOC), where I help review budgets and ensure accountability in public programs. These roles have strengthened my ability to work thoughtfully and collaboratively in service of the community.
What is your understanding of the roles and responsibilities of this Board or Commission?
My understanding of the roles and responsibilities of the Citizens’ Stipend Setting Commission is that its members hold two public hearings every even-numbered year to review and discuss appropriate compensation for the City Council members and Mayor. The Commission then makes a recommendation, by majority vote and in writing, to the City Council regarding the monthly stipend for the next two-year term. Members are appointed by district, and the role requires careful consideration, fairness, and transparency to ensure that stipend decisions are responsible and reflect community standards.
Do you have experience or special knowledge pertaining to this Board or Commission?
While I do not have prior experience on the Citizens Stipend Setting Council specifically, I have experience in community service, collaborative decision-making, and budgeting through my role as Vice Chair of the Pioneer Elementary School Site Council. I am committed to approaching this role thoughtfully, fairly, and with transparency, and I am eager to contribute to the community through this board.
Any other comments you would like to add that may assist the City Council in their decision?
I am eager to serve on this council because I want to be an active member of my community and contribute to positive change for the future. I am committed to serving thoughtfully, fairly, and collaboratively, and I hope to help ensure decisions reflect the best interests of our city and its residents.
Amanda Estrada
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Date of Birth
Requirements
If you selected other, please indicate how you learned about the vacancy:
I first learned about this vacancy through a post on Instagram.
Demographics
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.
AE
Amanda Estrada