Submit Date: Jun 26, 2026
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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:
Weaver USD Measure K CBOC
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
Amanda
Estrada
Amanda Estrada
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 currently employed with Recovery Solutions a company that provides mental health services to individual, and I am currently pursuing a degree in Psychology. I have a strong interest in public service, community engagement, and contributing to the continued growth and success of the City of Merced.
I currently serve as Vice Chair of the Pioneer Elementary School Site Council, Vice Chair of the Citizens Stipend Setting Commission, and as a member of the Weaver USD Measure K Citizens' Bond Oversight Committee. Through these roles, I have gained experience collaborating with diverse groups, reviewing budgets and policies, and making thoughtful recommendations that serve the best interests of the community.
I
am applying because I want to become more involved in local government and contribute my time and perspective to improving the quality of life in Merced. Whether the focus is parks and recreation, planning, transportation, housing, or personnel matters, I believe every board and commission plays an important role in shaping a safe, thriving, and well-managed community. I would be honored to serve and help make thoughtful, informed decisions that benefit both current and future residents.
Please list your current employer and relevant volunteer experience.
I am currently employed with Recovery Solutions a company that provides mental health services to individuals. I served as Vice Chair of the Pioneer Elementary School Site Council, and this was 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 Union School District Measure K Citizens' Bond Oversight Committee (CBOC), where I help review budgets and promote accountability in the use of public funds.
Additionally, I served as Vice Chair of the City of Merced Citizens Stipend Setting Commission, where I work alongside fellow commissioners to review and make recommendations regarding elected official stipends in a fair, transparent, and responsible manner.
What is your understanding of the roles and responsibilities of this Board or Commission?
My understanding is that each City Board and Commission serves an important advisory role by reviewing information, considering community needs, and making recommendations to the City Council and City staff within its area of responsibility. Members are expected to become informed on relevant issues, participate in thoughtful discussions, consider diverse perspectives, and make decisions that are fair, transparent, and in the best interest of the community.
I also understand that serving on a Board or Commission requires preparation, collaboration, and a commitment to responsible stewardship of public resources. I value these responsibilities and would approach the role with an open mind, integrity, and a willingness to listen and learn while representing the interests of the residents of Merced.
Amanda Estrada
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Do you have experience or special knowledge pertaining to this Board or Commission?
While I may not have specialized professional experience in every area represented by the City's Boards and Commissions, I bring valuable experience in collaborative decision-making, public service, budgeting, and community involvement through my leadership roles on the Pioneer Elementary School Site Council, the Citizens Stipend Setting Commission, and the Weaver USD Measure K Citizens' Bond Oversight Committee.
These experiences have
strengthened my ability to review information carefully, consider different perspectives, ask thoughtful questions, and make recommendations that balance community needs with responsible stewardship of public resources. As a Psychology student, I also have a strong interest in understanding how public policies and community resources affect people's well- being and quality of life. I am eager to continue learning and to contribute my time, dedication, and perspective in service to the City of Merced.
Any other comments you would like to add that may assist the City Council in their decision?
I care deeply about the future of Merced and want to play an active role in helping our community continue to grow and thrive. As both a parent and an engaged community member, I believe it is important to give back through public service and to help shape decisions that will have a lasting impact on future generations.
Over the past several years, I
have intentionally sought opportunities to serve my community through volunteer leadership roles, and I hope to continue that commitment by serving on a City Board or Commission. If appointed, I will come prepared, listen to diverse perspectives, ask thoughtful questions, and approach every decision with integrity, fairness, and a genuine commitment to serving the best interests of the residents of Merced.
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
*
Amanda Estrada
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
Other
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
Submit Date: Jun 19, 2026
First Name
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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:
*
Some College, No Degree
Patricia
Nuia
Patricia Nuia
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’m just an ordinary mother of 5 and wife to my hard working husband here in Merced County. We’ve lived here for five years now and very invested in our new community. I’m applying for this particular board because I care about the parks and recreations within our community. Especially after visiting Yosemite Lake the other day and couldn’t help but notice all the weeds growing out of the sand. We can do a lot better for the quality of our recreations for the community and for those visiting our city.
Please list your current employer and relevant volunteer experience.
What is your understanding of the roles and responsibilities of this Board or Commission?
I understand that my role serves a purpose in advising City Council of matters regarding to parks and recreation. Giving opinions and suggestions and going over budget.
Do you have experience or special knowledge pertaining to this Board or Commission?
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
*
Patricia Nuia
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?
*
City Website
If you selected other, please indicate how you learned about the vacancy:
Demographics
Ethnicity
Asian or Pacific Islander
Gender
Female
Submission
Patricia Nuia
I declare under penalty of disqualification or termination that all statements in this application are true and complete to the best of my knowledege.
PN
Patricia Nuia
Submit Date: Jun 23, 2026
First Name
Middle
Initial
Last Name
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Email Address
Primary Phone
Alternate Phone
Street Address
Suite or Apt
City
State
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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 3
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:
*
Bachelor's Degree
John
R
Carlos
Retired
John R Carlos
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 on Rec & Parks Commission before.
I termed out well over 20 years ago.
I remain
deeply concerned about our parks system, particularly Applegate Zoo, & recreational
opportunities in Merced
Please list your current employer and relevant volunteer experience.
I am happily retired.
I have volunteered thousands of hours over the years with several organizations
What is your understanding of the roles and responsibilities of this Board or Commission?
To advise the city council on all matters concerning parks & rec & to hear resident requests concerning street trees.
Do you have experience or special knowledge pertaining to this Board or Commission?
I hold a wealth of corporate knowledge regarding city parks & rec programs.
I have tears of
experience working with & leading volunteer organizations & I understand & support private- public sector partnerships.
Any other comments you would like to add that may assist the City Council in their decision?
U am extremely organized & I ake the time to thoroughly read documentation before rendering decisions.
Requirements
John R Carlos
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:
Demographics
John R Carlos
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.
JRC
John R Carlos
Submit Date: May 22, 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
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 4
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
Marcus
S
Arellano
County of Merced
Programmer Analyst
Marcus S Arellano
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:
The oldest memory I have is falling off a swing at Applegate Park. While I joke about this with family, it is an important factor of my upbringing. Merced's park system helped raise me, from the time I was toddling around playgrounds, to trying to get crawfish out of the creek near Rahilly, to running the bike path during cross country. I spent time in parks at family gatherings, Boy Scout events, and on my own, just to get some fresh air. Now, I am the Board Chair of Treehouse Tutoring, and I am on the other side of the table, organizing events for the youth of Merced. With all this in mind, I am very excited for the possibility of being more involved in the parks system for Merced.
Please list your current employer and relevant volunteer experience.
I work for the County of Merced as a Programmer Analyst, overseeing the county contracting and board voting systems. Regarding volunteering, I have volunteered my whole life. I was an Eagle Scout whose final project was refurbishing the sign at Castle Air Museum. I am now a board member of Merced Sunrise Rotary and have done a variety of volunteering ranging from the annual Clothes for Kids event, to our MHS Interact park cleanups, to helping feed the homeless, and much more.
I am also the Board Chair of Treehouse Tutoring, a nonprofit educational organization, and we have done a variety of volunteer events from College Application Night with Merced High School District, to our Family Literacy Program, LOFT Literacy. We have also co-organized Hmong American Day for the past 2 years, so I am no stranger to larger scale community events.
What is your understanding of the roles and responsibilities of this Board or Commission?
From what I know, the commission works with the Parks and Rec director to help guide what projects and initiatives are undertaken, and review reports of said projects and programs.
Do you have experience or special knowledge pertaining to this Board or Commission?
This will be my first time serving on a City Board or Commission, or a commission dedicated to Parks and Rec. I am confident in my general capabilities, and am excited to learn the specific complexities of this position.
Any other comments you would like to add that may assist the City Council in their decision?
I am very much looking to become more invested and involved in Merced.
Marcus S Arellano
Upload a Resume
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
*
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 City of Merced
Demographics
Marcus_Arellano_-
_Resume_5_22_26.pdf
Marcus S Arellano
Date of Birth
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.
MSA
Marcus S Arellano
Submit Date: May 26, 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
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 6
Are you currently serving on a Board or Commission? If so, please list:
NA
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
Christopher James Carter
University of California-
Merced Head Men's Volleyball Coach
Christopher James Carter
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 fairly new to Merced but have quickly grown to love this city. With a position within UC Merced athletics, I am dedicated to see this city continue to grow and expand and want to be a part of that in whatever capacity I can. I am a quick learner, have my bachelors in Political science, and even worked in local government in college.
Please list your current employer and relevant volunteer experience.
UC Merced Men's Volleyball head coach Eagle Scout Big Brother Big sister volunteered for multiple congressional campaigns in college,
What is your understanding of the roles and responsibilities of this Board or Commission?
My understanding is that the Planning Commission serves as an advisory and decision- making body that helps guide the City’s growth and development in a way that aligns with community needs, long-term planning goals, and local regulations. The Commission reviews proposals, zoning changes, development projects, conditional use permits, and subdivisions to ensure they are consistent with the City’s General Plan and municipal code.
I understand
that the role also involves balancing economic development with responsible planning, public safety, environmental considerations, infrastructure needs, and quality of life for residents. Commissioners are expected to carefully review staff reports, listen to public input, ask thoughtful questions, and make fair, informed decisions that are in the best interest of the community as a whole. I am excited about the opportunity to do this, because I believe that Merced has so much to offer, especially with a growing UC, and I want to see it become a booming college town.
I
Do you have experience or special knowledge pertaining to this Board or Commission?
Political science undergraduate degree
Any other comments you would like to add that may assist the City Council in their decision?
I am a incredibly fast learner, intelligent, I work well in teams and do well with deadlines. 2025_resume_.docx.pdf
Christopher James Carter
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
*
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
Demographics
Christopher James Carter
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.
CJC
Christopher James Carter
Chris Carter
Coaching Experience
University of California- Merced, NCAA D2, Merced CA May 2025- Present
University at Albany, NCAA D1, Albany, NY April 2024-Present Assistant Coach, Women’s Volleyball
● 2024 America East Coaching Staff of the Year
● Guided the Great Danes to notable improvement, securing five more wins than previous season including three America East Conference victories.
● Spearheaded the Danes defensive efforts, averaging 9.5 blocks per match and 65 digs per match in conference play – an improvement of 1.0 blocks per match and 13.7 digs per match compared to the 2023 season. In the America East tournament, the Great Danes excelled defensively with 19 digs per set and 2.25 blocks per set against #1 Binghamton and #2 New Hampshire. ● Guided the development in First-team All-Conference Shynelle Woroniuk and conference Rookie of the Year in Maria Olga Siapani.
● Managed comprehensive administrative responsibilities, including organizing team travel, coordinating meal plans, overseeing equipment and gear ordering, planning and competing community service events and planning and directing all summer camps and satellite camps.
Springfield College, NCAA D3, Springfield, MA May 2022-April 2024 Graduate Assistant Coach/Recruiting Coordinator, Men’s Volleyball ● Assisted head coach in all aspects of the program including practice planning, game-strategy, player development, recruiting, and volleyball operations.
● Identified key positional needs for recruiting classes, attended regional and national tournaments, and utilized online resources such as University Athlete and NCSA, as well as utilizing club volleyball connections.
● Guided recruits through the recruiting process, including official visits, the application process, and financial aid. Organized all recruit contact information, relevant film, and individual recruiting timelines in a comprehensive Excel spreadsheet to track current and future recruiting classes. ● Monitored the academic progress of all student-athletes to ensure compliance with our team 3.0 GPA standard. Conducted bi-weekly academic checks with first-year athletes to implement academic support strategies to ensure that athletes would achieve their academic goals. ● Utilized DataV olley software to evaluate players’ performance, conduct offensive and defensive analyses, and prepared detailed scouting reports of opponents before every match. ● In-game duties include tracking opponent offensive distribution, coordinating team defense and communicating with head coach on necessary adjustments. ● Helped guide team to NCAA tournament in back-to-back years with 48-7 record in 2022 and 2023. ● Guided the development of 4 First Team All-Americans and two ROY awards. Dylan Mulvaney awarded Rookie of the Year in 2022, and Sam Levinson awarded Rookie of the Year in 2023.
Springfield College, NCAA D3, Springfield, MA August 2023-Nov 2023 Volunteer Assistant Coach, Women’s Volleyball
● Assisted head coach with planning and execution of practices. ● Team finished 27-5 with a second round NCAA appearance, was undefeated in NEWMAC conference play and was ranked in top 25 polls for the first time since 2012. ● D3 Region 2 Coaching Staff of the Year 2023.
Westcliff University, NAIA, Irvine, CA August 2021 -May 2022 Assistant Coach/Recruiting Coordinator, Women’s Volleyball ● Collaborated with head coach and other assistant coach to develop and execute tailored practice plans that address needs and objectives of the team.
● Conducted individual and position-based training groups to improve individual skills and overall positional group skills, primarily setters and pin hitters. ● Recruiting coordinator duties include using engines such as Fieldlevel and NCSA to find high quality athletes that fit the program’s needs, and coordinating scholarships, and the guiding athletes through the recruiting process. Recruiting class of 2022 included First Team All-Conference and NAIA Honorable Mention Freshman Fiona Moesching and Calpac Defender of the Year Ava Himstreet. ● Coached 4 All Cal-Pac team honorees.
Pulse Athletics Volleyball Club, Anaheim, CA September 2016-Present Boys/Girls Head Coach
● Successfully lead teams of varying age groups (12s to 18s) and skill levels including Open Level teams as Head Coach.
● Consistently achieved outstanding results, with open level teams competing at Junior Nationals and securing 3 top 10 finishes at national tournaments, including the SCV A boys Invitational, Holiday Classic, and the So-Cal Cup MLK and Showcase tournaments. Additionally coached 18s team to a silver medal at the 2021 So-Cal Cup Winter Formal tournament and took 5th place at 2022 USA V BJNC and a top 10 finish at the 2023 AAU National Championship.
● Served as club-wide setting coach, analyzing and training setters on all teams on individual skill and offensive systems to enhance team’s overall performance. ● Directed and ran highly successful clinics and positional trainings within the club, further enhancing players’ skills and attracting new players to the club.
University High School, Irvine, CA August 2020 – May 2022 Varsity Head Coach
● Oversaw entire program with three levels: Varsity, Junior Varsity, and Frosh/Soph teams with primary focus of process-based development of student athletes on the court as well as fostering emotional growth and academic success.
● Developed and executed fast-paced, high impact practice plans with an emphasis on development of structured offensive and defensive systems to enhance team performance, including perfect pass, medium pass, and high ball out-of-system on both sides of the net. ● Collaborated with Junior Varsity and Frosh/Soph coaches to ensure consistency in teaching language and skill progression, promoting seamless transition of players to the Varsity level. ● Managed a budget and worked alongside booster board to ensure fundraising goals were met to ensure program was fully funded.
● As Head Coach, led the Varsity team to unprecedented success, from an 0-10 record to finishing in the top half of the competitive Pacific Coast League and advancing to CIF playoffs in consecutive years for the first time in 5 years.
● Produced multiple all-league selections in each year.
Education
Springfield College, Springfield, MA May 2024
Masters Degree in Athletic Leadership
Cal State Fullerton , Fullerton, CA May 2022
Bachelor of Science in Political Science