Agenda packet — Appointments Committee, September 28, 2023

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AMENDED
www.modestogov.com
AGENDA
City of Modesto

SPECIAL APPOINTMENTS COMMITTEE / COUNCIL

WORKSHOP
2001-40 Del Puerto Room.

Tenth Street Place, 1010 10th Street
Modesto, California
Thursday, September 28, 2023 at 4:00 PM
Roll Call: Rosa Escutia-Braaton, Chair
Chris Ricci, Vice-Chair
Jeremiah Williams, Member
Alternates: David Wright, Sue Zwahlen, Nick Bavaro, Eric Alvarez Council has not delegated directive or final approval authority to the Committees. Committee actions are recommendations to the full City Council, not final decisions on an issue.

PUBLIC COMMENTS IN PERSON
Three-minute time limit per speaker
Only interested persons in the audience may present these matters. Under State law, Councilmembers may respond to matters being presented under this item only as follows:
a. Briefly respond to statements made or questions raised. b. Ask a question for clarification.
c. Provide a reference to staff or other resources for factual information. d. Request staff to report back at a subsequent meeting. e. Finally, a Councilmember or the Council itself may take action to direct staff to place a matter of business on a future agenda.
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SUBMITTING COMMENTS BY E-MAIL
Written comments may be submitted via email to: [email protected] (include Agenda Item Number in the subject line). All comments will be shared with the Committee Members and placed in the record, but will not be read aloud during the meeting. Written comments must be received two hours before the meeting.

Any and all of the following agenda items are subject to action by the Modesto City Council.

This Agenda is on file in the City Clerk’s Office, Sixth Floor, 10th Street Place, Posting Board at entry of 10th Street Place, and is available on the City’s Web site at www.modestogov.com.

In accordance with the requirements of Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act (“ADA”) of 1990, the Fair Employment & Housing Act (“FEHA”), the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (as amended), Government Code section 11135 and other applicable codes, the City of Modesto (“City”) will not discriminate against individuals on the basis of disability in the City’s services, programs, or activities. For more information, please visit the City of Modesto website at https://www.modestogov.com/865/Americans-with-Disabilities-Act-ADA In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, if you need special assistance to participate in this meeting, please contact the City Clerk (209) 577-5396. Notification 48 hours prior to the meeting will enable the City to make reasonable arrangements to ensure accessibility to this meeting.

NEW BUSINESS

1. Consider interviewing for the appointment of one vacancy to fill the partial term expiring December 31st, 2024 on the City of Modesto Planning Commission and forwarding to Council for approval. (Funding Source: Not Applicable)  Motion recommending the appointment of an applicant to fill the partial term expiring December 31st, 2024, for the City of Modesto Planning Commission and forwarding to Council for approval.

CED; Jessica Hill, 209-577-5267, [email protected]

2. Consider the appointment for one vacancy on the City of Modesto Citizens’ Housing and Community Development Committee and forwarding to Council for approval. (Funding Source: Not Applicable)
 Motion recommending the appointment for one vacancy on the City of Modesto Citizens’ Housing and Community Development Committee for a 4-year term beginning January 1, 2024 through December 31, 2028, and forwarding to Council for approval.

CED; Jessica Hill, 209-577-5267, [email protected]

3. Consider the appointments for five vacancies on the Citizens’ Salary Setting Commission and forwarding to Council for approval. (Funding Source: Not Applicable)
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 Motion recommending the appointment of two applicants for a two-year term with expiration of December 31, 2026 and three applicants for a four-year term with expiration of December 31, 2028, for the Citizens' Salary Setting Commission and forwarding to Council for approval.

CITY CLERK; Diane Nayares-Perez, 209-577-5396, [email protected]

4. Consider the appointment of one vacancy on the Equity Commission for a partial unexpired term ending December 31, 2026 and forwarding to Council for approval. (Funding Source: Not Applicable)
 Motion recommending the appointment of one applicant to the Equity Commission for a partial unexpired term ending December 31, 2026 and forwarding to Council for approval.

HUMAN RESOURCES; Christina Alger, 209-571-5126, [email protected]

5. Consider the reappointment of Kayvon Banankhah, Lolamaya Evans, Jossfin Garza, Hamza Modan and Abigail Manzano and appointing four new members to the Modesto Youth Commission for the 2023–2024 school year from October 24, 2023 to June 30, 2024 and forwarding to Council for approval. (Funding Source: Not Applicable)  Motion recommending the reappointment of Kayvon Banankhah, Lolamaya Evans, Jossfin Garza, Hamza Modan and Abigail Manzano and appointing four new members to the Modesto Youth Commission for the 2023–2024 school year from October 24, 2023 to June 30, 2024 and forwarding to Council for approval.

PRN; Ashley Weaver, 209-577-5428, [email protected]

ADJOURNMENT
Posted pursuant to Government Code Section 54956 on the bulletin board at Tenth Street Place on at by
date time signature
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CITY OF MODESTO

COMMITTEE AGENDA REPORT
DATE OF MEETING:

September 28, 2023
Date: August 31, 2023
TO: Appointments Committee
Rosa Escutia-Braaton, Chair
Chris Ricci, Vice Chair
Jeremiah Williams, Member
THROUGH: Joseph P. Lopez, City Manager
FROM: Jessica Hill, Director of Community and Economic Development SUBJECT: Appointment to the Planning Commission
CONTACT: Jessica Hill, Director of Community and Economic Development [email protected] , 209-577-5267
DESCRIPTION:

Consider interviewing for the appointment of one vacancy to fill the partial term expiring December 31st, 2024 on the City of Modesto Planning Commission and forwarding to Council for approval. (Funding Source: Not Applicable)
STRATEGIC PLAN ELEMENT:

This action supports the City’s Strategic Commitment, “Build Community trust in City Government through Responsive, Transparent and Efficient Service Delivery. Goal I.

Promote Trust and Engagement between the Community and the City”.

BACKGROUND:

The Planning Commission is responsible for making decisions and recommendations regarding the development of the community. The Planning Commission has final authority regarding subdivision maps and parcel maps, certain zoning matters and development plans, and occasionally matters appealed either from the staff level or Board of Zoning Adjustment. The Planning Commission makes recommendations to the City Council regarding annexations, rezonings, code amendments and most General Plan-related matters. Seven (7) members are appointed by the City Council for a 4-year term, starting January 1st and ending December 31st.

Section 11021 of the Charter of the City of Modesto authorizes the City Council to appoint members to various Boards and Commissions with the recommendation of the City’s Appointments Committee.

DISCUSSION:
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Appointments Committee, September 28, 2023
Appointment to the Planning Commission

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Commissioner Hank Pollard tendered his resignation on March 3, 2023, leaving a vacancy on the Planning Commission and a partial term to fulfill. This vacancy is to be filled by a prospective candidate, subject to interviews by the Appointments Committee, as required by Council policy, and final approval by the City Council.

Outreach for the Planning Commission vacancy included posting the vacancy in the Modesto Bee, emails to those who have applied for a Planning Permit, emails to those who have a business license as an Engineer or Architect, and emails to current members of all Planning Committees to send on to their colleagues to apply.

We received five (5) new applications of those who are interested in the Planning Commission.

FISCAL IMPACT:

There is no impact to the action.

RECOMMENDED COMMITTEE ACTION:

Staff Recommendations:

Motion recommending the appointment of an applicant to fill the partial term expiring December 31st, 2024, for the City of Modesto Planning Commission and forwarding to Council for approval.

Approved by:

Jessica Hill, Director of Community & Economic
Development
Joseph P. Lopez, City Manager
Attachments:

1. Planning Commission Bylaws

2. Applications (5)
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City of Modesto

PLANNING

COMMISSION
Rules and Regulations
June 2010
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Description Page
Dates of Adoption/Amendments……………………………………………………………………………………………1 ARTICLE I. – ORGANIZATION
Section 1.1 – Establishment………………………………………………………………………………………….. 2 ARTICLE II. – POWERS AND DUTIES
Section 2.1 – Enumerated…………………………………………………………………………………………….. 2 ARTICLE III. - MEETINGS
Section 3.1 – Regular Meetings……………………………………………………………………………………… 2 Section 3.2 – Special Meetings………………………………………………………………………………………. 3 Section 3.3 – Notice of Meetings……………………………………………………………………………………. 3 Section 3.4 – Place of Meetings……………………………………………………………………………………… 3 Section 3.5 – Quorum…………………………………………………………………………………………………… 3 Section 3.6 – Meetings to be Public… ……………………………………………………………………………. 3 Section 3.7 – Seating and Roll Call Vote…………………………………………………………………………. 3 Section 3.8 – Attendance………………………………………………………………………………………………. 3 Section 3.9 – Agenda and Reports…………………………………………………………………………………. 4 Section 3.10 – Field Trips…............................................................................................... 4 Section 3.11 – Reading of the Minutes…………………………………………………………………………….4 Section 3.12 – Order of Business (Agendas)……………………………………………………………………. 4 ARTICLE IV. – PUBLIC HEARINGS
Section 4.1 – Public hearing Procedures…………………………………………………………………………. 4 ARTICLE V. – PLANNING COMMISSION ORGANIZATION
Section 5.1 – Membership…………………………………………………………………………………………….. 6 Section 5.2 – Term………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 6 Section 5.3 – Appointment process……………………………………………………………………………….. 6 ARTICLE VI. – ELECTION OF OFFICERS/TERMS OF OFFICE
Section 6.1 – Election of Officers…………………………………………………………………………………… 6 Section 6.2 – Terms of Office……………………………………………………………………………………….. 6 ARTICLE VII. – OFFICERS
Section 7.1 – Enumerated…………………………………………………………………………………………….….… 7 Section 7.2 – Election of Officers…………………………………………………………………………………………. 7 ARTICLE VIII. – PROCEDURES, POWERS, DUTIES, AND STAFF
Section 8.1 – Designated………………………………………………………………………………………………. 7 Section 8.2 – Secretary of the Commission…………………………………………………………………….. 7 Section 8.3 – Recording Secretary…………………………………………………………………………………. 7 ARTICLE IX. – PARLIAMENTARY PROCEDURE
Section 9.1 – Rules of Order…………………………………………………………………………………………. 7 Section 9.2 – Rules of Debate……………………………………………………………………………………….. 7 Section 9.3 – Rules for Processing of Motions…………………………………………………………………. 8 Section 9.4 – Parliamentarian……………………………………………………………………………………….. 9 ARTICLE X. – METHOD OF ACTION
Section 10.1 – Decisions……………………………………………………………………………………………….. 9 ARTICLE XI. – COMMITTEES
Section 11.1 – Special Committees………………………………………………………………………………… 9 #1..
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City of Modesto Planning Commission Page 1
Rules and Regulations
Adopted: February 5, 1957
Amended: October 7, 1958,
November 18, 1958
October 3, 1961
December 15, 1964
March 18, 1975
December 5, 1978
April 2, 1979
September 2, 1979
May 4, 1981
September 20, 1982
March 21, 1983
January 20, 1987
December 19, 1988
April 16, 1990
April 21, 1997
August 16, 1999
April 19, 2004
June 7, 2010
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City of Modesto Planning Commission Page 2
Rules and Regulations
ARTICLE I. ORGANIZATION
Section 1.1 Establishment
The Planning Commission of the City of Modesto, hereafter called “The Commission”, is established pursuant to the provisions of Chapter 1 of Title X of the Modesto Municipal Code.

ARTICLE II. POWERS AND DUTIES
Section 2.1 Enumerated.

The Commission shall have the following powers and duties:
(a) Perform all of the functions assigned to a City Planning Commission by the “Conservation and Planning Act” and other statutes of the State of California relating to planning and zoning, insofar as they are not in consistent with the provisions of the Charter of the City of Modesto. (b) Prepare and recommend to the City Council the adoption, amendment, or repeal of a General Plan, or any part thereof for the physical development of the City. (c) Exercise such functions with respect to land subdivisions, planning and zoning as may be prescribed by ordinance or resolution.
(d) Advise and recommend to the proper officials of the City the approval, disapproval or modification of all land subdivision in accordance with the Subdivision Map Act of the State of California, or as may be provided by the Municipal Code of the City of Modesto. (e) Hold hearings on planning and zoning matters as prescribed by the Modesto Municipal Code, or State law; except that the provisions of Chapter 4 of the State Planning Law, Government Code Section 65800, and following, are not adopted unless specifically stated. (f) Review and recommend to the Council a capital improvements program budget. (g) Advise and recommend to the proper officials of the City regarding the acquisition, use, or disposition of all City-owned property.
(h) Advise and recommend to the Council on matters required by law or referred by the City Council.

ARTICLE III. MEETINGS
Section 3.1 Regular Meetings.

Prior to the first meeting of the coming year, a calendar of meetings shall be approved by the Planning Commission. The calendar adopted by the Planning Commission shall constitute the Schedule of Meetings. In preparing the calendar of meetings, the following shall serve as guidelines:
(a) Regular meetings of the Commission shall be open to the public and shall be held at 6:00 p.m. on the first and third Monday of each calendar month.
(b) If a regular meeting date falls on a legal holiday the meeting shall be held on the previous or following Monday.
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City of Modesto Planning Commission Page 3
Rules and Regulations
(c) If all members are absent from any regular or adjourned meeting, the Secretary may declare the meeting adjourned to a stated time and place. If the Secretary does so, the Secretary shall cause written notice of the adjournment to be given in the same manner provided for special meetings. Whenever a regular or adjourned regular meeting is adjourned as provided in this section, the resulting adjourned regular meeting is a regular meeting for all purposes. When an order of adjournment of any meeting fails to state the hour at which the adjourned meeting shall be held, it shall be held at the hour specified for the regular meeting which was adjourned.
(d) In preparing the calendar, a two-to-three-week interval between meetings shall be maintained, where possible.

Section 3.2 Special Meetings.

Special Meetings of the Commission shall be open to the public and shall be held at such time as the Commission may determine, or they may be called by the Chairperson any time where an emergency situation warrants such a meeting.

Section 3.3 Noticing of Meetings.

Noticing of all meetings shall be in conformance with State Planning Law and the Modesto Municipal Code.

Section 3.4 Place of Meetings.

All meetings shall be held in the official Council Chamber of the City of Modesto or in such other location of the City as may be designated by the Planning Commission or the Secretary thereto.

Section 3.5 Quorum.

A majority of the members of the Commission shall constitute a quorum for the transaction of business.

Section 3.6 Meetings to be Public.

All meetings of the Commission shall be open to the public.

Section 3.7 Seating and Roll Call Vote.

The Commission shall be seated in alphabetical order. A roll call vote shall be taken upon the passage of all resolutions and be entered upon the journal of the proceedings of the Commission. Upon the request of any member, a roll call vote shall be taken and recorded on any vote. Whenever a roll call vote of the Commission is in order, the names of the members shall be called in the order seated, provided that the name of the presiding officer shall be called last. All members shall be required to vote. The affirmative or negative vote of a majority of the entire membership of the Commission shall be necessary for it to take action.

Section 3.8 Attendance.

Regular attendance at all meetings of the Commission is required of all members to enable the Commission to discharge the duties imposed upon it by law. If a member is absent from three (3) regular meetings of the Commission consecutively, without securing the permission of the Commission expressed in its official minutes, the member shall be deemed to have resigned from the Commission, and the member’s office shall become vacant. #1..
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City of Modesto Planning Commission Page 4
Rules and Regulations
Section 3.9 Agenda and Reports.

In order to facilitate the orderly conduct of the business of the Commission, the Secretary shall arrange an agenda of the matters to be considered by the Commission at its next meeting together with a report outlining all known facts in each case to be considered by the Commission, with such analysis as is necessary, including recommended action when appropriate. The agenda and all reports shall be delivered or mailed to each member of the Commission, the City Manager, and the City Attorney prior to the Commission meeting at which they are to be considered, as far as possible in advance of the meeting as time for preparation will permit. Matters not included on the agenda will not be acted upon by the Commission unless (a) a majority of the Commission determine that an emergency situation exists, or (b) the Commission, by a two-thirds vote, or if less than two-thirds of the members are present by a unanimous vote, determines that the need to take action arise subsequent to the agenda for the meeting being posted, or (c) the item was on a properly posted agenda for a prior meeting of the Commission occurring not more than five (5) days prior to the meeting at which the action is taken.

Section 3.10 Field Trips.

In cases where a view of the premises will assist the Commission in making a decision, a field trip may be arranged prior to the meeting.

Section 3.11 Reading of the Minutes.

Unless the reading of the minutes of a previous Commission meeting is requested by a member of the Commission, such minutes may be approved without reading if the Secretary has previously furnished each member of the Commission with a copy thereof.

Section 3.12 Order of Business (Agendas).

Order of business at any regular meeting shall be as follows:
a. Roll Call
b. Approval of Minutes
c. Consent and Joint Public Hearing Items
d. Public Hearings
e. Other Business
f. Oral Communications
g. Matters too Late for the Agenda
h. Adjournment
ARTICLE IV. PUBLIC HEARINGS
Section 4.1 Public Hearing Procedures.

The following rules shall govern the conduct of public hearings:
(a) All hearings will be recorded by mechanical means. If a reporter is desired, the fee or fees of such reporter shall be paid by the party requesting the services. (b) The real parties in interest, including the applicant or any party having a substantial interest in the hearing, may be represented by counsel or a spokesperson. (c) The Chairperson opens the public hearing and calls for a presentation by staff of the Community & Economic Development Department.
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City of Modesto Planning Commission Page 5
Rules and Regulations
(d) At the opening of the hearing, staff describes the item under consideration and presents staff report and recommendation. As a part of this presentation, suitable zoning maps, land-use maps and development plans of the area concerned may be identified and placed in view of the Commission and all persons attending the hearing.
(e) At the conclusion of the presentation by staff, applicant (or proponents) is given first opportunity to speak and/or make a presentation, including calling witnesses and presenting any materials, exhibits, documents or other physical evidence. (f) At the conclusion of the presentation by the applicant or proponents, any persons who oppose the application may make a presentation, including calling witnesses and presenting any materials, exhibits, documents or other physical evidence. (g) All exhibits, documents or other physical evidence used by applicant or other interested parties during the hearings, will be introduced into evidence and will become part of the record and retained by the Secretary until the decision becomes final. (h) Members of the public wishing to speak on an item shall not be required to be sworn. Each speaker will be required to approach the microphone and give their full name and address for the record before testifying.
(i) The Planning Commission may question the speaker. However, the Chairperson may require that such questions be addressed through the Chair for resubmission to the speaker. (j) The reading of details of letters and petitions by the persons submitting them may be permitted provided the material is not overly lengthy. Speakers will be asked to summarize written material. Such documents may be filed with the Secretary and the Secretary shall mark them as having been received for the limited purpose of showing the names of the persons protesting or supporting the application.
(k) While it is desirable in a democratic process to permit every person an unlimited right to speak, such a right unduly prolongs a public hearing and clouds the basic issue if the evidence presented is merely cumulative and repetitious. Therefore, whenever necessary, the Chairperson may state that cumulative and repetitious evidence is to be avoided. Similarly, testimony and evidence which is incompetent, irrelevant or immaterial may be foreclosed by the Chairperson. If, because of the informality of the hearing, such improper evidence is received, it shall not be considered by the Commission in reaching its decision. (l) The Commission may establish special rules for individual items of business, establishing time limits for presentations and requiring presentations to be made through spokespersons, if possible.
(m) After those in favor or opposed to an application have been heard, the Chairperson will ask for the recommendation of staff and the reasons for such recommendation. After such recommendation, both the applicant and opponent, if any, shall be given a limited amount of time to summarize their position or respond to the recommendation, after which the Chairperson shall close the public portion of the hearing. (n) The Commission should discuss the issues involved and make its decision only after hearing the evidence presented at the public hearing. Discussion of the matter by members of the Commission concurrently with or immediately following the staff’s factual report and before the public has an opportunity to present its point of view may influence the Commission action. Therefore, except for questions by the Commission to obtain or clarify the facts, discussion of the matter by Commission members should be delayed until after the public hearing is closed and the matter is presented to the Commission for discussion and decision. #1..
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City of Modesto Planning Commission Page 6
Rules and Regulations
(o) The Commission may conduct a field trip to view the property involved in the public hearing. All field trips shall be taken as part of a regular, adjourned regular or special meeting of the Commission and all interested persons will be afforded the opportunity to be present to hear any reports or comments. A complete record of such field trip will be entered into the minutes so the record will indicate that the field trip was taken into consideration as evidence. If a Commissioner has personal knowledge of the property area, the Commissioner should make a statement to that effect at the time of the hearing so the record will reflect everything being taken into consideration in making the final decision.
(p) Commissioners are responsible for ensuring that the public hearing is conducted in a fair and impartial manner. If a Commissioner receives personal contact or telephone calls outside of the public hearing which concerns a matter pending before or of interest to the Planning Commission, he or she shall disclose the substance and nature of the contact or call at the public hearing. If written materials are presented to the Commission by an applicant or member of the public, a copy must be made available for public review by filing the materials with the Secretary at least three (3) days in advance of the meeting at which the item or matter is scheduled to be considered or at the time the materials are provided to any Commissioner, whichever is earliest.
(q) Summary of Procedure for Conduct of Public Hearings by the Modesto City Planning Commission:
1) Opening of public hearing.
2) Staff Report and (optional) recommendation.
3) Applicant’s presentation.
4) Opposition presentation.
5) Staff recommendation.
6) Summation by applicant and opposition.
7) Close of public portion of hearing.
8) Discussion and decision by Commission.

ARTICLE V - PLANNING COMMISSION ORGANIZATION
Section 5.1 Membership.

The Planning Commission shall consist of seven members.

Section 5.2 Term.

The term of the Planning Commissioners shall be set by the City Council by resolution.

Section 5.3 Appointment Process.

The City Council shall appoint all members of the Planning Commission pursuant to applicable provisions of the Municipal Code.

ARTICLE VI - ELECTION OF OFFICERS/TERMS OF OFFICE
Section 6.1 Election of Officers.

As soon as practical following the first day of January of each year, the Commission shall elect a Chairperson and Vice Chairperson.

Section 6.2 Terms of Office.

The Chairperson and Vice-Chairperson shall hold offices for one (1) year. #1..
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City of Modesto Planning Commission Page 7
Rules and Regulations
ARTICLE VII. - OFFICERS
Section 7.1 Enumerated.

The officers of the Commission shall be:

A Chairperson, whose duties shall be to preside at all meetings and call special meetings; and A Vice Chairperson, who shall, in the absence of the Chairperson, perform the duties of the Chairperson.

Section 7.2 Election of Officers.

As soon as practical following the first day of January of each year, the Commission shall elect a Chairperson and Vice Chairperson.

ARTICLE VIII. - PROCEDURES, POWERS, DUTIES, AND STAFF
Section 8.1 Designated.

The provisions of the Municipal Code of the City of Modesto pertaining to procedures, powers, duties, and staff shall prevail.

Section 8.2 Secretary of the Commission.

The Director of the Community & Economic Development Department or his/her designee shall serve as Secretary to the Commission. The Secretary shall keep a written record of all business transacted by the Commission, notify Commission members of meetings, and keep the official records of the Commission. Upon the direction of the Commission, the Secretary shall perform such other secretarial duties as the Commission may require.

Section 8.3 Recording Secretary.

The recording secretary shall assist the Secretary of the Commission in fulfilling the responsibilities of administering to the needs of the Commission, including attending meetings to take audio recordings of the meetings, preparing minutes of all meetings, maintaining personnel records of the Commissioners and coordinating meeting schedules.

ARTICLE IX. - PARLIAMENTARY PROCEDURE
Section 9.1 Rules of Order.

Except as otherwise provided in these rules and regulations, all meetings of the Commission shall be conducted in accordance with the following rules and procedures.

Section 9.2 Rules of Debate.

The Chairperson, or such other member of the Planning Commission as may be presiding, may move, second and debate from the chair, subject only to such limitations of debate as are by these rules imposed upon all members. The Chairperson shall not be deprived of any of the rights and privileges of a Commission member by acting as the Presiding Officer. (a) Getting the floor. Every member desiring to speak shall address the chair, and, upon recognition by the Presiding Officer, shall address only the question under debate, avoiding all personalities and indecorous language.
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City of Modesto Planning Commission Page 8
Rules and Regulations
(b) Interruptions. A member once recognized, shall not be interrupted when speaking other than by the Presiding Officer to call the member to order, or as herein otherwise provided. If a member, while speaking, be called to order, the member shall cease speaking until the question of order be determined, and, if in order, the member shall be permitted to proceed. (c) Privilege of closing debate. The Commission member moving the adoption of a resolution or motion shall have the privilege of closing the debate.
(d) Remarks of Commission member. A Commission member may request through the Presiding Officer, the privilege of having an abstract of the member’s statement on any subject under consideration by the Commission entered in the minutes. If the Commission consents thereto, such statement shall be entered in the minutes.
(e) Synopsis of debate. The Secretary may be directed by the Presiding Officer, with the consent of the Commission, to enter in the minutes a synopsis of the discussion on any question coming regularly before the Commission.

Section 9.3 Rules for Processing of Motions.
(a) Making and withdrawing motions. When a motion is made, it shall be stated clearly and concisely by its mover. After a motion is made, it may be stated by the Presiding Officer before debate. A motion may be withdrawn by the mover without the consent of the remaining Commission members.
(b) Divisible propositions. If the question contains two (2) or more divisible propositions, the Presiding Officer may, and upon request of a Commission member shall, divide the same. (c) Precedence of motions. When a motion is before the Commission, no motion shall be entertained except (precedence in order indicating):
1) To adjourn.
2) To fix hour of adjournment.
3) To lay on the table.
4) For the previous question.
5) To postpone to a certain day.
6) To refer.
7) To amend.
8) To postpone indefinitely.
(d) Motion to adjourn. A motion to adjourn shall be in order any time except as follows:
1) When repeated without intervening business or discussion. 2) When made as an interruption of a member while speaking. 3) When the previous question has been ordered.
4) While a vote is being taken.

A motion to adjourn to “another time” is debatable only as to the time to which the meeting is adjourned.
(e) Motion to table. A motion to table or lay on the table is not debatable and shall preclude all amendments or debate of the subject under consideration. If the motion shall prevail, the matter may be “taken from the table” only by a successful motion to add it to the agenda at a subsequent meeting, to be discussed at the following regular meeting. #1..
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City of Modesto Planning Commission Page 9
Rules and Regulations
(f) Motion for previous question. A motion for previous question shall close debate on the main motion and shall be undebatable. The statement by a Commission member “I call for the question” does not accomplish the same purpose. If a motion fails, debate is reopened, if motion passes, then vote shall be taken on the main motion. (g) Motion to amend. A motion to amend shall be in order and is debatable only as to the proposed amendment. A motion to amend an amendment shall not be in order. Amendments are to be voted first, then the main motion as amended.
(h) Motion to postpone. A motion to postpone indefinitely shall be fully debatable and if the same is adopted the principal motion shall be declared lost. A motion to postpone to a definite time shall be amendable and debatable as to propriety of postponement and time set. (i) Motion to refer. A motion to refer to staff or to a Commission committee shall not be debatable except for the propriety of referring.
(j) Motion to reconsider. A motion to reconsider any action taken by the Commission may be made only on the day such action was taken. It may be made either immediately during the same session, or at a recessed or adjourned session thereof. Such motion must be made by one of the prevailing side, but may be seconded by any member, and may be made at any time and shall be debatable. Nothing herein shall be construed to prevent a Commission member of the prevailing side from remaking the same motion at a subsequent meeting of the Commission. In such an event, the person desiring to remake the motion for reconsideration shall submit a written request for reconsideration to the Commission Secretary, who shall place the matter on the agenda for the next regular meeting of the Commission.

Section 9.4 Parliamentarian.

The Chairperson, acting with the advice of the City Attorney, shall decide all questions of interpretation of these rules and any other questions of a parliamentary nature which may arise at a Planning Commission meeting.

ARTICLE X. - METHOD OF ACTION
Section 10.1 Decisions.

All decisions of the Commission required by the provisions of the Zoning and Subdivision Regulations shall be by resolution. All other determinations of the Commission may be by motion, except when otherwise required by law.

ARTICLE XI. - COMMITTEES
Section 11.1 Special Committees.

There shall be such special committees as the Commission may establish from time to time. #1..
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Boards, Commissions & Committees Application
Title II Compliance
In accordance with the requirements of Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act Act of 1973 (as amended), Government Code section 11135 and other applicable codes, the C
information, please visit the City of Modesto website. Apply To: Planning Commission First Name Lourdes
Last Name Uranday
Address
City Modesto
State CA
Zip Code 95350
Home Phone
Work Phone
Email Address
Occupation Business Consultant
Employer / Business Lourdes Uranday Consulting
Business Address
City Modesto
State CA
Zip Code 95353
Education MBA-HRM
(Section Break)
Qualifications:
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Are you a Modesto
resident?
Yes
If yes, what was the date of
residency?
4/1/2008
Registered Voter
Requirement
I understand that I must be a registered voter in the City of Modesto to apply for this committee or commission.

Are you a registered voter
in the City of Modesto?
Yes
Are you a registered voter
in Stanislaus County?
Yes
Are you now or have you
ever been employed by the
City of Modesto?
No
Inclusive dates: Field not completed.

HR Director-Foster Farms
Business Advisor-Valley Sierra SBDC
Chairperson-Stanislaus County Employer Advisory Council How did you learn about
the board for which you are
applying?
Other (Please specify)
If other, please specify: Eric Alvarez posted
Describe your involvement
in community activities and
civic organizations. (Do not
list partisan political
parties.)
Past Board Member-CVHCC
Member-CVHCC
Member-Modesto Chamber of Commerce
Chairperson and Founder- Stan Co EAC
#1..
- 18 -
Grant writer-ETP grants for Crystal Creamery and Opportunity Stanislaus
What is it about this
position that interests you?
I would like to provide input on what is approved for vacant buildings in our city and be a voice
What qualities, experience,
and expertise would you
bring to it?
Experienced in building purchases, management, grant
programs, Chamber of Commerce, business startup , Human Resources, Workforce development, bilingual
(Spanish/English)
(Section Break)
Demographics
City of Modesto invites all applicants to voluntarily self-identify their gender, race/ethnicity, veteran status and disability. Submission of this information is voluntary and refusal to provide will not affect the application process. The information will be kept confidential and will only be used in accordance with the provisions of applicable laws, executive orders and regulations, including those that require the information to be summarized and reported to the federal government for civil rights enforcement.

Gender
Ethnicity
Are you currently, or have
you ever, served in the
Armed Forces?
Do you consider yourself
disabled?
(Section Break)
Email not displaying correctly? View it in your browser. #1..
- 19 -
From: [email protected]
To: Optimize; Amber Dick; Viktoria Slater
Subject: Online Form Submission #40293 for Boards, Commissions & Committees Application Date: Friday, August 25, 2023 3:03:21 PM
External Email: Please use caution when clicking links and/or opening attachments.

For more information, please visit the City of Modesto website. Apply To: Planning Commission First Name Erin
Last Name Black
Address
City
State
Zip Code
Home Phone
Work Phone Field not completed.

Email Address
Occupation Tenured Professor of Psychology
Employer / Business Modesto Junior College
Business Address 435 College Avenue
City Modesto
State CA
Zip Code 95350
Education Bachelor of Science, Psychology
#1..
- 20 -
Masters in Social Work
(Section Break)
Qualifications:

Are you a member
from a bona fide local
nonpartisan political
organization, with taxexempt status under
Section 501(c)(3) of the
Internal Revenue
Code, dedicated to
encouraging informed
and active participation
in government?
No
Are you a member
from a former Civil
Grand Jury who has
served in that role
within in the previous
five years?
No
Are you a Modesto
resident?
Yes
If yes, what was the
date of residency?
7/29/1975
Registered Voter
Requirement
I understand that I must be a registered voter in the City of Modesto to apply for this committee or commission.

Are you a registered
voter in the City of
Modesto?
Yes
Are you a registered
voter in Stanislaus
County?
Yes
Are you now or have
you ever been
employed by the City of
Modesto?
No
Inclusive dates: Field not completed.

Do you have relatives No
#1..
- 21 -
or a member of your
household who are
employed by the City of
Modesto, or who are
currently serving on the
City Council, or who
are Board members or
Commissioners?
List relevant
employment, training,
and experience,
certificates of training,
licenses, and
professional
registration.

Licensed Clinical Social Worker
How did you learn
about the board for
which you are
applying?
Other (Please specify)
If other, please specify: Email from City of Modesto
Describe your
involvement in
community activities
and civic organizations.
(Do not list partisan
political parties.)
I have been active in my community on a micro level for some time. I have regularly volunteered in Modesto City Schools in many capacities, including at my children's schools as a tutor, classroom volunteer, fundraising chairperson, ticket salesperson, concession stands worker, and event coordinator. I have also served as a volunteer for Love Modesto events, as well as a parent volunteer for the Modesto Youth Symphony Orchestra. I have served on various committees at Modesto Junior College, including the Academic Senate and the Yosemite Faculty
Association. In the past I have participated in civic discussions regarding several local projects, including the Virginia Corridor Rails-to-Trails project, the Tuolumne River Park proposal, and sidewalk and traffic safety planning at Fremont Elementary School.

What is it about this
position that interests
you?
I am passionate about encouraging the city to make smart, thoughtful, and beneficial plans for our community. I believe that one must actively participate in civic affairs, instead of being an idle bystander. I am interested in being a part of the decisionmaking process for the future of Modesto. I believe it is important to have a diverse group of decision makers at the table, and I know that I can provide some diversity to this group. I want to provide my unique perspective as a mother, wife, daughter, educator, therapist, and lifetime Modesto resident.

What qualities, I am fair, honest, and ethical. I am a thoughtful, and intelligent #1..
- 22 -
experience, and
expertise would you
bring to it?
person with experience in mediation. I am skilled at hearing both sides of an argument, and working to create consensus. I am a good listener and and a fast learner. I work hard and will take this position very seriously, knowing the impact the Planning Commission's decisions have on Modesto's citizens and future. (Section Break)
Demographics
City of Modesto invites all applicants to voluntarily self-identify their gender, race/ethnicity, veteran status and disability. Submission of this information is voluntary and refusal to provide will not affect the application process. The information will be kept confidential and will only be used in accordance with the provisions of applicable laws, executive orders and regulations, including those that require the information to be summarized and reported to the federal government for civil rights enforcement.

Gender
Ethnicity
Are you currently, or
have you ever, served
in the Armed Forces?
Do you consider
yourself disabled?
(Section Break)
Email not displaying correctly? View it in your browser. #1..
- 23 -
From: [email protected]
To: Optimize; Amber Dick; Viktoria Slater
Subject: Online Form Submission #40274 for Boards, Commissions & Committees Application Date: Thursday, August 24, 2023 12:28:50 PM
External Email: Please use caution when clicking links and/or opening attachments.

For more information, please visit the City of Modesto website. Apply To: Planning Commission First Name Naramsen
Last Name Goriel
Address
City Modesto
State CA
Zip Code Field not completed.

Home Phone Field not completed.

Work Phone Field not completed.

Email Address Field not completed.

Occupation Field not completed.

Employer / Business Field not completed.

Business Address Field not completed.

City Field not completed.

State Field not completed.

Zip Code Field not completed.

Education Field not completed.
#1..
- 24 -
(Section Break)
Qualifications:

Are you a member
from a bona fide local
nonpartisan political
organization, with taxexempt status under
Section 501(c)(3) of the
Internal Revenue
Code, dedicated to
encouraging informed
and active participation
in government?
No
Are you a member
from a former Civil
Grand Jury who has
served in that role
within in the previous
five years?
No
Are you a Modesto
resident?
Yes
If yes, what was the
date of residency?
9/5/1984
Registered Voter
Requirement
I understand that I must be a registered voter in the City of Modesto to apply for this committee or commission.

Are you a registered
voter in the City of
Modesto?
Yes
Are you a registered
voter in Stanislaus
County?
Yes
Are you now or have
you ever been
employed by the City of
Modesto?
No
Inclusive dates: Field not completed.

Do you have relatives
or a member of your
No
#1..
- 25 -
household who are
employed by the City of
Modesto, or who are
currently serving on the
City Council, or who
are Board members or
Commissioners?
List relevant
employment, training,
and experience,
certificates of training,
licenses, and
professional
registration.

I have been on the Board of Zoning Adjustment since 2018. I have run for city council and mayor of Modesto so I’m up to date on the general plan and Modesto’s anticipatory vision. I am an attorney licensed in the State of California
How did you learn
about the board for
which you are
applying?
Community Group
Describe your
involvement in
community activities
and civic organizations.
(Do not list partisan
political parties.)
I plan voter registration drives, I help immigrant communities navigate bureaucracy through nonprofit programs, I organize Modesto Park Cleanup and volunteer as a group leader for Love Modesto.

What is it about this
position that interests
you?
Modesto needs a more vibrant downtown and other areas of the town need proper planning that’s sustainable for our future without sacrificing our cherished farmland.

What qualities,
experience, and
expertise would you
bring to it?
Chairman of the BZA for 2 years of my 5 years of service on the BZA. I’m connected with nonprofit organizations, entrepreneurs, businesses, and labor unions.
(Section Break)
Demographics
City of Modesto invites all applicants to voluntarily self-identify their gender, race/ethnicity, veteran status and disability. Submission of this information is voluntary and refusal to provide will not affect the application process. The information will be kept confidential and will only be used in accordance with the provisions of applicable laws, executive orders and regulations, including those that require the information to be summarized and reported to the federal government for civil rights enforcement.
#1..
- 26 -
Gender
Ethnicity Field not completed.

Are you currently, or
have you ever, served
in the Armed Forces?
Do you consider
yourself disabled?
(Section Break)
Email not displaying correctly? View it in your browser. #1..
- 27 -
From: [email protected]
To: Optimize; Amber Dick; Viktoria Slater
Subject: Online Form Submission #40469 for Boards, Commissions & Committees Application Date: Monday, September 11, 2023 7:25:27 PM
External Email: Please use caution when clicking links and/or opening attachments.

For more information, please visit the City of Modesto website. Apply To: Planning Commission First Name minal
Last Name desai
Address
City modesto
State ca
Zip Code 95356
Home Phone
Work Phone Field not completed.

Email Address
Occupation dentist
Employer / Business KIDS WORLD DENTAL , CROSSROADS DENTAL GROUP,

TURLOCK CHILDRENS DENTISTRY
Business Address 1404 MITCHELL ROAD
City MODESTO
State CA
Zip Code 95351
#1..
- 28 -
Education DDS, General Practice residency, Fellowship Implantology (Section Break)
Qualifications:

Are you a member
from a bona fide local
nonpartisan political
organization, with taxexempt status under
Section 501(c)(3) of the
Internal Revenue
Code, dedicated to
encouraging informed
and active participation
in government?
No
Are you a member
from a former Civil
Grand Jury who has
served in that role
within in the previous
five years?
No
Are you a Modesto
resident?
Yes
If yes, what was the
date of residency?
4/30/2003
Registered Voter
Requirement
I understand that I must be a registered voter in the City of Modesto to apply for this committee or commission.

Are you a registered
voter in the City of
Modesto?
Yes
Are you a registered
voter in Stanislaus
County?
Yes
Are you now or have
you ever been
employed by the City of
Modesto?
No
Inclusive dates: Field not completed.

No
#1..
- 29 -
Do you have relatives
or a member of your
household who are
employed by the City of
Modesto, or who are
currently serving on the
City Council, or who
are Board members or
Commissioners?
List relevant
employment, training,
and experience,
certificates of training,
licenses, and
professional
registration.

Business owner - multiple dental practices
How did you learn
about the board for
which you are
applying?
Other (Please specify)
If other, please specify: BOZA MEETING
Describe your
involvement in
community activities
and civic organizations.
(Do not list partisan
political parties.)

BOARD OF ZONING, HOA FLEUR DE VILLE, PRESIDENT

INDIAN CULTURAL ASSOCIATION
What is it about this
position that interests
you?
This position is a contribution to the development and growth of our city. The ability to bring public perspective to the table is important to me.

What qualities,
experience, and
expertise would you
bring to it?
I am a dentist by profession and I have built multiple practices and real estate in the community in the past. I have an understanding of urban development through experience. I have a desire to work with board to serve the interests of the public and our city.
(Section Break)
Demographics
City of Modesto invites all applicants to voluntarily self-identify their gender, race/ethnicity, veteran status and disability. Submission of this information is voluntary and refusal to provide will not affect the application process. The information will be kept confidential and will only be used in accordance with the #1..
- 30 -
provisions of applicable laws, executive orders and regulations, including those that require the information to be summarized and reported to the federal government for civil rights enforcement.

Gender
Ethnicity
Are you currently, or
have you ever, served
in the Armed Forces?
Do you consider
yourself disabled?
(Section Break)
Email not displaying correctly? View it in your browser. #1..
- 31 -
From: [email protected]
To: Optimize; Amber Dick; Viktoria Slater
Subject: Online Form Submission #40564 for Boards, Commissions & Committees Application Date: Sunday, September 17, 2023 8:29:31 AM
External Email: Please use caution when clicking links and/or opening attachments.

For more information, please visit the City of Modesto website. Apply To: Planning Commission First Name David
Last Name Seymour
Address
City Modesto
State CA
Zip Code 95356
Home Phone
Work Phone Field not completed.

Email Address
Occupation Executive Director
Employer / Business McHenry Museum & Historical Society Business Address 1402 I ST
City Modesto
State CA
Zip Code 95354
Education A.A. Modesto Junior College (2006), B.A. in History, California #1..
- 32 -
State University, Stanislaus (2008), M.A. in History, California State University, Stanislaus (2011)
(Section Break)
Qualifications:

Are you a member
from a bona fide local
nonpartisan political
organization, with taxexempt status under
Section 501(c)(3) of the
Internal Revenue
Code, dedicated to
encouraging informed
and active participation
in government?
Yes
Are you a member
from a former Civil
Grand Jury who has
served in that role
within in the previous
five years?
No
Are you a Modesto
resident?
No
Registered Voter
Requirement
I understand that I must be a registered voter in the City of Modesto to apply for this committee or commission.

Are you a registered
voter in the City of
Modesto?
Yes
Are you a registered
voter in Stanislaus
County?
Yes
Are you now or have
you ever been
employed by the City of
Modesto?
No
Inclusive dates: Field not completed.

Do you have relatives
or a member of your
household who are
No
#1..
- 33 -
employed by the City of
Modesto, or who are
currently serving on the
City Council, or who
are Board members or
Commissioners?
List relevant
employment, training,
and experience,
certificates of training,
licenses, and
professional
registration.

I have worked as an instructor of History at Modesto Junior College since 2012. I have been with the McHenry Museum & Historical Society since 2017 and have worked for them as Executive Director since January 2022.

How did you learn
about the board for
which you are
applying?
Community Group
Describe your
involvement in
community activities
and civic organizations.
(Do not list partisan
political parties.)
I have been engaged with the community through work and political involvement with many groups.

What is it about this
position that interests
you?
The assisting in the future of the city of Modesto.

What qualities,
experience, and
expertise would you
bring to it?
I am a gifted researcher and have an acumen for the history and the demographics of Modesto.
(Section Break)
Demographics
City of Modesto invites all applicants to voluntarily self-identify their gender, race/ethnicity, veteran status and disability. Submission of this information is voluntary and refusal to provide will not affect the application process. The information will be kept confidential and will only be used in accordance with the provisions of applicable laws, executive orders and regulations, including those that require the information to be summarized and reported to the federal government for civil rights enforcement.
#1..
- 34 -
Gender
Ethnicity
Are you currently, or
have you ever, served
in the Armed Forces?
Do you consider
yourself disabled?
(Section Break)
Email not displaying correctly? View it in your browser. #1..
- 35 -

CITY OF MODESTO

COMMITTEE AGENDA REPORT
DATE OF MEETING:

September 28, 2023
TO: Appointments Committee
Rosa Escutia-Braaton, Chair
Chris Ricci, Vice Chair
Jeremiah Williams, Member
THROUGH: Joseph P. Lopez, City Manager
FROM: Jessica Hill, Director of Community and Economic Development SUBJECT: Appointment to the Citizens’ Housing and Community Development Committee CONTACT: Jessica Hill, Director of Community and Economic Development [email protected], 209-577-5267
DESCRIPTION:

Consider the appointment for one vacancy on the City of Modesto Citizens’ Housing and Community Development Committee and forwarding to Council for approval. (Funding Source:

Not Applicable)
STRATEGIC PLAN ELEMENT:

This action supports the City’s Strategic Commitment, “Build Community trust in City Government through Responsive, Transparent and Efficient Service Delivery. Goal I. Promote Trust and Engagement between the Community and the City”.

BACKGROUND:

The Modesto Citizens’ Housing & Community Development Committee (CH&CDC) consists of 11 members appointed by the City Council for a 4-year term. The CH&CDC serves as an advisory group to the City Council on matters related to housing and community development.

The Citizens Housing and Community Development Committee provides overall review of the City's Housing and Urban Development (HUD) funds. The committee makes funding recommendations to the Modesto City Council regarding the HUD Community Development Block Grant, Emergency Shelter Grant, and Home Investment Partnership Grant programs.

Section 11021 of the Charter of the City of Modesto authorizes the City Council to appoint members to various Boards and Commissions with the recommendation of the City’s Appointments Committee.
#2..
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Appointments Committee, September 28, 2023
Appointment to the Citizens’ Housing Community Development Committee

Page 2 of 2 ends

DISCUSSION:

Douglas Parman tendered his resignation on July 10, 2023, leaving a vacancy on the Citizens’ Housing and Community Development Committee. This vacancy is to be filled by a prospective candidate, recommended by the Appointments Committee, and final approval by the City Council.

The candidate would be appointed to the Citizens Housing Community Development Committee for a full term beginning on January 1, 2024 with a term expiration date of December 31, 2028.

Citizen applications for vacant committee positions are accepted online and the attached applicants applied between July 2022 and August 2023. All which showed interest in various committees, including the Citizens’ Housing & Community Development Committee. We received a total of seven applications and of those, staff were able to confirm five individuals are still interested in the position.

Outreach for the Citizens’ Housing & Community Development Committee vacancy included posting the vacancy in the Modesto Bee, and across social media by the City’s Communication and Media Relations Team.

FISCAL IMPACT:

There is no fiscal impact related to this action.

RECOMMENDED COUNCIL ACTION:

Staff Recommendations:

Motion recommending the appointment for one vacancy on the City of Modesto Citizens’ Housing and Community Development Committee for a 4-year term beginning January 1, 2024 through December 31, 2028, and forwarding to Council for approval.

Approved by:

Jessica Hill, Director of Community
and Economic Development
Joseph P. Lopez, City Manager
Attachments:

1. Bylaws

2. Citizen’s Housing & Community Development Committee Applications #2..
- 37 -

Page 1 ends

CITIZENS' HOUSING & COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE
BYLAWS
(Amended: November 24, 2015, Resolution No. 2015-457)
Article I. Definitions
Section 1.01 There is a Committee created to be known and designed as the Citizens’ Housing and Community Development Committee.

Section 1.02 As used in these Bylaws, unless a different meaning clearly appears from the context:
(a) “Member” shall mean a member of the Citizen’s Housing & Community Development Committee.
(b) “Citizens’ Housing & Community Development Committee” and “Committee” shall mean the Citizens’ Housing & Community Development Committee.

Article II. Objectives
Section 2.01 The Committee shall be responsible for providing overall review of the City of Modesto’s (City) housing programs and making policy and funding recommendations regarding the City’s housing and Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and Emergency Solution Grant (ESG) funded programs to the City Council.

Article III. Membership
Section 3.01 The Citizens’ Housing & Community Development Committee shall consist of eleven (11) qualified persons comprised of the following:

Seat Designation Term
Councilmember (appointed by the Mayor) 4 years
Councilmember (appointed by the Mayor) 4 years
Housing Rehabilitation Loan Committee Representative 4 years City Planning Commission Representative 4 years
Human Relations Committee Representative 4 years
Citizen-at-Large 4 years
Exhibit "A"
#2..
- 38 -

Page 2 ends

Citizen-at-Large 4 years
Citizen-at-Large 4 years
Citizen-at-Large 4 years
Citizen-at-Large 4 years
Citizen-at-Large 4 years
#2..
- 39 -

Page 3 ends

Section 3.02 The Members of the Committee shall reside within the City limits of the City at the time of appointment and must maintain residence within the City at all times during their service on the Committee.

Section 3.03 No Member of the Committee shall be an employee of the City, nor any bargaining unit for employees of the City, nor a person who receives compensation from the City.

Section 3.04 All appointments shall be made by the City’s Appointments Committee.

Section 3.05 No Member of the Committee shall be a relative, by blood marriage within the third degrees of the Mayor, Councilmember, Charter Officer or any department director or deputy department director.

Section 3.06 One Member of the Committee shall be appointed as an alternate to the Housing Rehabilitation Loan Committee by the Committee Chairperson.

Section 3.07 All Members must complete a Statement of Economic Interest (Form 700) by April 1 of each year and when assuming or leaving Committee membership.

Article IV. Terms of Office
Section 4.01 Members may serve no more than two (2) terms.

Section 4.02 Full terms are four (4) years in duration.

Section 4.03 A partial term of two (2) or more years shall be considered a full term for purposes of Section 4.01.

Section 4.04 Full term appointments begin on January 1 and expire on December 31 four (4) years subsequent.

Section 4.05 Members may be reappointed after their initial term. Members serving two (2) consecutive terms may be reappointed after a break in service of twelve (12) months.
#2..
- 40 -

Page 4 ends

Section 4.06 Members not eligible for reappointment may continue to serve until their successors are appointed. No member shall serve more than eight (8) consecutive years, with the exception of those who are serving until their successors are appointed.

Section 4.07 The Members of the Committee shall receive no compensation for the performance of their official duties.

Section 4.08 Appointments to fill vacancies on the Committee shall be handled in the same manner as original appointments. When a vacancy occurs during a term, the appointment to full such vacancy shall be for the unexpired portion of the term.

Section 4.09 Members of the Committee may be removed by a majority vote of the City Council after a recommendation by the Committee Chairperson for the following reasons:
(a) Misconduct, inefficiency, or willful neglect in the performance of their duties providing the member is first provided in writing the reasons for such removal and gives the member the opportunity to be heard before the City Council in their own defense. (b) Refusal to resign from the Committee when no longer a resident of the City or when a conflict of interest exists.

Article V. Attendance at Meetings
Section 5.01 It shall be the responsibility of each Member to know the dates and times of all Committee meetings. If a Member knows he or she will not be able to attend a regularly scheduled meeting, it shall be his or her responsibility to notice the Committee Secretary at least forty-eight (48) hours in advance of the meeting, in order for the absence to be recorded as an excused absence.

Section 5.02 The minutes of each meeting will list those Members in attendance, those who are excused and those who are unexcused.

Section 5.03 Timely attendance at meetings is expected and necessary to carry out the mission of the Committee. Three (3) or more consecutive unexcused absences are grounds for removal of a Member from the Committee by the City Council. #2..
- 41 -

Page 5 ends

Article VI. Officers and Their Duties
Section 6.01 Officers shall consist of a Chairperson, as appointed by the Mayor, and a Vice-chairperson, elected by a majority vote of the members of the Committee. Officers shall serve a four-year term.

Section 6.02 All officers shall exercise all privileges of membership, including the making of motions, seconding and debate.

Section 6.03 The Chairperson shall preside at all meetings, shall appoint all ad-hoc committees, and shall ensure that the bylaws, rules and regulations as adopted by the Committee are properly enforced
Section 6.04 The Vice-chairperson shall assist the Chairperson in his/her duties and in the absence of the Chairperson shall perform all duties usually performed by the Chairperson.

Section 6.05 The Committee Secretary shall be a City staff member, appointed by the Community & Economic Development Department, to serve as secretary to the Committee. The Committee Secretary shall keep a record of the minutes of all Committee meetings and such other duties as are usually performed by a secretary.

Article VII. Meetings
Section 7.01 Special meetings shall be called by the Chairperson as necessary.

Section 7.02 Notices of all meetings, including agendas, shall be given to all Members of the Committee, to the City Clerk, to the City Manager, and to all others as provided by law. All such notices shall be furnished to the Committee in writing at least seventy-two (72) hours prior to the time of such meeting.

Section 7.03 All meeting agendas will be posted at Tenth Street Place.

Section 7.04 All meetings shall comply with the requirements of the Ralph M. Brown Act.

Section 7.05 A quorum is necessary for the Committee to transact any business. A quorum shall be defined as a simple majority of active Committee members which is one-half of the active members plus one.
#2..
- 42 -

Page 6 ends

Section 7.06 All meetings of the Committee shall be open to the public and shall be held at a public facility, which is accessible in accordance with the regulations of the Americans with Disabilities Act.

Article VIII. Order of Proceedings
Section 8.01 Sturgis’ Standard Code of Parliamentary Procedure shall be the guide for the parliamentary procedures in the conduct of Committee meetings.

Section 8.02 The order of proceedings of all meetings shall be as follows, subject to majority vote of the members present:
(a) Roll Call
(b) Declaration of Conflict of Interest
(c) Public Comment Period
(d) Consent Items
(e) Old Business
(f) New Business
(g) Committee Comments & Reports
(h) Matters Too Late For the Agenda
(i) Adjournment
Section 8.03 Members of the public shall not speak unless recognized by the Chairperson and shall state their names before making any statement, which shall become a part of the public record. The Chairperson may remove any person who refuses to follow these rules or the decision of the Chairperson.

Article IX. Amendments
Section 9.01 The Bylaws and any future amendments shall be subject to the final approval of the City Council and shall not and are not intended to go beyond any of the powers and duties given to the Committee by the City Council. #2..
- 43 -
Title II Compliance
In accordance with the requirements of Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act (“ADA”) of 1990, the Fair Employment & Housing Act (“FEHA”), the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (as amended), Government Code section 11135 and other applicable codes, the City of Modesto (“City”) will not discriminate against individuals on the basis of disability in the City’s services, programs, or activities. For more information, please visit the City of Modesto website.

Apply To:*
If other, please specify:*
First Name
DAVID
Last Name
HARRIS
Date of Birth* School* Grade*
Address
City

MODESTO
State
CA
Zip Code
95355
Home Phone Work Phone
Email Address Occupation
Disabled Veteran
Employer / Business
Business Address
City State Zip Code
Education
High School Diploma, Some College
Qualifications:

Full-time Highschool Enrollment Requirement*
I understand that I must be enrolled full-time in High School in order to apply for this committee or commission.

If you do not meet at least one of the qualifications for the committee or commission you wish to apply for, your application may be rejected. Please review our other committees and commissions and apply for another that meets your interests or skillset.

Are you enrolled full-time in high school?*
Yes
No
Modesto Resident Requirement
I understand that I must be a Modesto resident in order to apply for this committee or commission.

Are you a Modesto resident?
Yes
No
If yes, what was the date of residency?
Registered Voter Requirement*
I understand that I must be a registered voter in the City of Modesto to apply for this committee or commission.

Print
Boards, Commissions & Committees Application - Submission #34300 Date Submitted: 8/25/2022
Citizens Housing & Community Development Committee
mm/dd/yyyy
5/1/2009
#2..
- 44 -
Are you a registered voter in the City of Modesto?
Yes
No
Are you a registered voter in Stanislaus County?
Yes
No
Employment Disqualification*
I understand that I cannot be employed by the City of Modesto or Stanislaus County and serve on this commission or committee.

Are you now or have you ever been
employed by the City of Modesto?
Yes
No
If yes, in what capacity? Inclusive dates: —
Do you have relatives or a member of your household who are employed by the City of Modesto, or who are currently serving on the City Council, or who are Board members or Commissioners? Yes
No
If yes, please explain:

List relevant employment, training, and experience, certificates of training, licenses, and professional registration.

How did you learn about the board for which you are applying? Community Group
Newspaper
Place of Employment
Utility Bill Insert
Other (Please specify)
If other, please specify:

Describe your involvement in community activities and civic organizations. (Do not list partisan political parties.) Neighborhood Watch Captain, Next door Lead Person
What is it about this position that interests you?
I think more can be done to help the homeless in Modesto as I once was homeless.

What qualities, experience, and expertise would you bring to it? I found a way out of homelessness for my self and think I can bring my own experiences of homelessness and drug and alcohol addiction recovery to help others get out of their situation.

Demographics
City of Modesto invites all applicants to voluntarily self-identify their gender, race/ethnicity, veteran status and disability. Submission of this information is voluntary and refusal to provide will not affect the application process. The information will be kept confidential and will only be used in accordance with the provisions of applicable laws, executive orders and regulations, including those that require the information to be summarized and reported to the federal government for civil rights enforcement.

#2..
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What skills and talents will you bring to the Commission?* What other clubs and extra curriculars are you involved in?* a. How many hours a week do you spend in these activities?* b. How will you prioritize your involvement in this role?* What do you enjoy doing with your free time?*
Are you able to meet the time and travel commitments of approximately three to four hours per month that come as a member of this commission?*
Yes
No
Regular general meetings are held on the 3rd Thursday of the month 4:00 p.m. at the Neighborhood Center at Marshall Park located at 420 Chicago Avenue, Building A, Modesto, CA 95351.

Note: To stay apprised of youth issues in Modesto, attendance at other meetings, such as City Council and other City boards and commissions, will be encouraged.

Applicant Acknowledgement*
If selected, I commit to attending all my meetings and serving diligently to represent the youth of Modesto on the Youth Commission.

Parent / Guardian Acknowledgement *
If selected, I commit to attending all my meetings and serving diligently to represent the youth of Modesto on the Youth Commission. #2..
- 46 -
Title II Compliance
In accordance with the requirements of Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act (“ADA”) of 1990, the Fair Employment & Housing Act (“FEHA”), the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (as amended), Government Code section 11135 and other applicable codes, the City of Modesto (“City”) will not discriminate against individuals on the basis of disability in the City’s services, programs, or activities. For more information, please visit the City of Modesto website.

Apply To:*
If other, please specify:*
First Name
Dupree
Last Name
Hull
Date of Birth* School* Grade*
Address

City
Modesto
State
California
Zip Code
95351
Home Phone Work Phone
Email Address Occupation
Advocate
Employer / Business

Business Address

City
Modesto
State
Ca
Zip Code
95358
Education
Qualifications:

Full-time Highschool Enrollment Requirement*
I understand that I must be enrolled full-time in High School in order to apply for this committee or commission.

Are you enrolled full-time in high school?*
Yes
No
Modesto Resident Requirement
I understand that I must be a Modesto resident in order to apply for this committee or commission.

Print
Boards, Commissions & Committees Application - Submission #35594 Date Submitted: 11/7/2022
Citizens Housing & Community Development Committee
mm/dd/yyyy
mm/dd/yyyy
#2..
- 47 -
Are you a registered voter in the City of Modesto?
Yes
No
Are you a registered voter in Stanislaus County?
Yes
No
Employment Disqualification*
I understand that I cannot be employed by the City of Modesto or Stanislaus County and serve on this commission or committee.

List relevant employment, training, and experience, certificates of training, licenses, and professional registration.

How did you learn about the board for which you are applying? Community Group
Newspaper
Place of Employment
Utility Bill Insert
Other (Please specify)
If other, please specify:

Describe your involvement in community activities and civic organizations. (Do not list partisan political parties.) What is it about this position that interests you?
Invoke a voice for the voiceless/ a better Modesto
What qualities, experience, and expertise would you bring to it? Service/ organize the un - organized
Demographics
City of Modesto invites all applicants to voluntarily self-identify their gender, race/ethnicity, veteran status and disability. Submission of this information is voluntary and refusal to provide will not affect the application process. The information will be kept confidential and will only be used in accordance with the provisions of applicable laws, executive orders and regulations, including those that require the information to be summarized and reported to the federal government for civil rights enforcement.

Gender Ethnicity
Are you currently, or have you ever, served in the Armed Forces? Do you consider yourself disabled?
Why do you want to serve on the Youth Commission?*
What do you see as the primary issues currently impacting youth in our community?* What skills and talents will you bring to the Commission?* mm/dd/yyyy mm/dd/yyyy
#2..
- 48 -
What other clubs and extra curriculars are you involved in?* a. How many hours a week do you spend in these activities?* b. How will you prioritize your involvement in this role?* What do you enjoy doing with your free time?*
Are you able to meet the time and travel commitments of approximately three to four hours per month that come as a member of this commission?*
Yes
No
Regular general meetings are held on the 3rd Thursday of the month 4:00 p.m. at the Neighborhood Center at Marshall Park located at 420 Chicago Avenue, Building A, Modesto, CA 95351.

Note: To stay apprised of youth issues in Modesto, attendance at other meetings, such as City Council and other City boards and commissions, will be encouraged.

Applicant Acknowledgement*
If selected, I commit to attending all my meetings and serving diligently to represent the youth of Modesto on the Youth Commission.

Parent / Guardian Acknowledgement *
If selected, I commit to attending all my meetings and serving diligently to represent the youth of Modesto on the Youth Commission. #2..
- 49 -
Title II Compliance
In accordance with the requirements of Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act (“ADA”) of 1990, the Fair Employment & Housing Act (“FEHA”), the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (as amended), Government Code section 11135 and other applicable codes, the City of Modesto (“City”) will not discriminate against individuals on the basis of disability in the City’s services, programs, or activities. For more information, please visit the City of Modesto website.

Apply To:*
If other, please specify:*
First Name
Joel
Last Name
Campos
Date of Birth* School* Grade*
Address

City
Modesto
State
CA
Zip Code
95350
Home Phone Work Phone
Email Address Occupation
Associate Regional Planner
Employer / Business

Business Address

City
Stockton
State
CA
Zip Code
95202
Education
Masters in Urban and Regional Planner from San Jose State University Qualifications:

Full-time Highschool Enrollment Requirement*
I understand that I must be enrolled full-time in High School in order to apply for this committee or commission.

Are you enrolled full-time in high school?*
Yes
No
Modesto Resident Requirement
I understand that I must be a Modesto resident in order to apply for this committee or commission.

Print
Boards, Commissions & Committees Application - Submission #34569 Date Submitted: 9/8/2022
Citizens Housing & Community Development Committee
mm/dd/yyyy
10/30/1989
#2..
- 50 -
Are you a registered voter in the City of Modesto?
Yes
No
Are you a registered voter in Stanislaus County?
Yes
No
Employment Disqualification*
I understand that I cannot be employed by the City of Modesto or Stanislaus County and serve on this commission or committee.

List relevant employment, training, and experience, certificates of training, licenses, and professional registration.

Graduated from MJC, Stanislaus State, and San Jose State, and have worked at the San Joaquin Council of Governments for 4 years planning, programming, and implementing projects.

How did you learn about the board for which you are applying? Community Group
Newspaper
Place of Employment
Utility Bill Insert
Other (Please specify)
If other, please specify:
city website
Describe your involvement in community activities and civic organizations. (Do not list partisan political parties.) I am a member for VFW Post 3199 in Modesto, and have served on the Stanislaus County Veterans Advisory Commission. I attended Modesto City Council meetings and planning workshops.

What is it about this position that interests you?
I would like to use my experience in planning to help create a better future for my hometown.

What qualities, experience, and expertise would you bring to it? Understanding of state and federal funding opportunities, guidelines, and requirements.

#2..
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What skills and talents will you bring to the Commission?* What other clubs and extra curriculars are you involved in?* a. How many hours a week do you spend in these activities?* b. How will you prioritize your involvement in this role?* What do you enjoy doing with your free time?*
Are you able to meet the time and travel commitments of approximately three to four hours per month that come as a member of this commission?*
Yes
No
Regular general meetings are held on the 3rd Thursday of the month 4:00 p.m. at the Neighborhood Center at Marshall Park located at 420 Chicago Avenue, Building A, Modesto, CA 95351.

Note: To stay apprised of youth issues in Modesto, attendance at other meetings, such as City Council and other City boards and commissions, will be encouraged.

Applicant Acknowledgement*
If selected, I commit to attending all my meetings and serving diligently to represent the youth of Modesto on the Youth Commission.

Parent / Guardian Acknowledgement *
If selected, I commit to attending all my meetings and serving diligently to represent the youth of Modesto on the Youth Commission. #2..
- 52 -
1 Please save in applications in Teams if this one is not already.

Apply To: Citizens Housing & Community Development Committee First Name Margie
Last Name Johnson
Address
City
State
Zip Code
Home Phone
Work Phone Field not completed.

Email Address
External Email: Please use caution when clicking links and/or opening attachments.

Boards, Commissions & Committees Application
Title II Compliance
In accordance with the requirements of Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act (“ADA”) of 1990, the Fair Employment & Housing Act (“FEHA”), the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (as amended), Government Code section 11135 and other applicable codes, the City of Modesto (“City”) will not discriminate against individuals on the basis of disability in the City’s services, programs, or activities. For more information, please visit the City of Modesto website.
#2..
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2 Occupation Field not completed.

Employer / Business None
Business Address Field not completed.

City Field not completed.

State Field not completed.

Zip Code Field not completed.

Education Field not completed.
(Section Break)
Qualifications:

Are you a member from a
bona fide local nonpartisan
political organization, with
tax-exempt status under
Section 501(c)(3) of the
Internal Revenue Code,
dedicated to encouraging
informed and active
participation in
government?
No
Are you a member from a
former Civil Grand Jury who
has served in that role
within in the previous five
years?
No
Are you a Modesto
resident?
Yes
If yes, what was the date of
residency?
10/24/1981
Are you a registered voter
in the City of Modesto?
Yes
Are you a registered voter
in Stanislaus County?
Yes
Are you now or have you
ever been employed by the
City of Modesto?
No
Inclusive dates: Field not completed.
#2..
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3 Do you have relatives or a
member of your household
who are employed by the
City of Modesto, or who are
currently serving on the City
Council, or who are Board
members or
Commissioners?
No
List relevant employment,
training, and experience,
certificates of training,
licenses, and professional
registration.

Behavioral Health Board, CSOC
How did you learn about
the board for which you are
applying?
Other (Please specify)
If other, please specify: Meetings
Describe your involvement
in community activities and
civic organizations. (Do not
list partisan political
parties.)
Field not completed.

What is it about this
position that interests you?
Being able to help the people of Modesto
What qualities, experience,
and expertise would you
bring to it?
I have had experience with different non profit organizations. (Section Break)
Demographics
City of Modesto invites all applicants to voluntarily self-identify their gender, race/ethnicity, veteran status and disability. Submission of this information is voluntary and refusal to provide will not affect the application process. The information will be kept confidential and will only be used in accordance with the provisions of applicable laws, executive orders and regulations, including those that require the information to be summarized and reported to the federal government for civil rights enforcement.

Gender
Ethnicity
#2..
- 55 -
4 Are you currently, or have
you ever, served in the
Armed Forces?
Do you consider yourself
disabled?
(Section Break)
Email not displaying correctly? View it in your browser. #2..
- 56 -
1 Apply To: Citizens Housing & Community Development Committee First Name David
Last Name Barber
Address
City
State
Zip Code
Home Phone
Work Phone
Email Address
External Email: Please use caution when clicking links and/or opening attachments.

Do you have relatives or a
member of your household
who are employed by the
City of Modesto, or who are
currently serving on the City
Council, or who are Board
members or
Commissioners?
No
List relevant employment,
training, and experience,
certificates of training,
licenses, and professional
registration.
3+ years public sector consulting experience
How did you learn about
the board for which you are
applying?
Other (Please specify)
If other, please specify: Linkedin
Describe your involvement
in community activities and
civic organizations. (Do not
list partisan political
parties.)
Volunteer, Central Valley Tykes & Trykes
What is it about this
position that interests you?
I have a passion for urban planning and community
development. Since moving to Modesto in 2020 I have learned to love this community, and ended up purchasing a home here.

There are some issues facing the region and a great need for more affordable housing, housing for the homeless, and
additional housing downtown. I would love to be a part of the solution and help the community develop in a sustainable and inclusive manner.

What qualities, experience,
and expertise would you
bring to it?
With years of experience in public sector consulting, I am a passionate and skilled communicator with a strong desire to see the community grow in a positive way. In addition, I have prior experience in commercial real estate and construction along with expertise in current land use, smart growth, and land development practices.
(Section Break)
Demographics
#2..
- 59 -
4 City of Modesto invites all applicants to voluntarily self-identify their gender, race/ethnicity, veteran status and disability. Submission of this information is voluntary and refusal to provide will not affect the application process. The information will be kept confidential and will only be used in accordance with the provisions of applicable laws, executive orders and regulations, including those that require the information to be summarized and reported to the federal government for civil rights enforcement.

Gender
Ethnicity
Are you currently, or have
you ever, served in the
Armed Forces?
Do you consider yourself
disabled?
(Section Break)
Email not displaying correctly? View it in your browser. #2..
- 60 -
1 Apply To: Citizens Housing & Community Development Committee First Name Jim
Last Name Stokes
Address
City
State
Zip Code
Home Phone
Work Phone Field not completed.

Email Address
External Email: Please use caution when clicking links and/or opening attachments.

Do you have relatives or a
member of your household
No
#2..
- 62 -
3 who are employed by the
City of Modesto, or who are
currently serving on the City
Council, or who are Board
members or
Commissioners?
List relevant employment,
training, and experience,
certificates of training,
licenses, and professional
registration.

I've been working to get marginalized groups into housing for over a decade. From refugees and political asylees to currently our local homeless population. I've worked with higher level groups who plan and build housing all the way down to working with landlords and local property companies. I also see the grift that a lot of these entities use to charge people more money while giving them less housing and security.

How did you learn about
the board for which you are
applying?
Other (Please specify)
If other, please specify: Chris Ricci's social media page Describe your involvement
in community activities and
civic organizations. (Do not
list partisan political
parties.)
I run the two Salvation Army homeless shelters on 9th and D St. I go to most meetings around the City when anything remotely close to homelessness is discussed. I am in
communication with city officials as well as local homeless advocates and I know several hundred homeless peopple in this city.

What is it about this
position that interests you?
Advancing housing issues and being able to have a voice for the population I work with and for.

What qualities, experience,
and expertise would you
bring to it?
I am a frequent and vocal advocate for the community I serve. I can provide what's practical for solutions rather than a pie in the sky situation not grounded in reality.
(Section Break)
Demographics
City of Modesto invites all applicants to voluntarily self-identify their gender, race/ethnicity, veteran status and disability. Submission of this information is voluntary and refusal to provide will not affect the application process. The information will be kept confidential and will only be used in accordance with the provisions of applicable laws, executive orders and regulations, including those that require the information to be summarized and reported to the federal government for civil rights enforcement.

Gender
Ethnicity
#2..
- 63 -
4 Are you currently, or have
you ever, served in the
Armed Forces?
Do you consider yourself
disabled?
(Section Break)
Email not displaying correctly? View it in your browser. #2..
- 64 -
Title II Compliance
In accordance with the requirements of Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act (“ADA”) of 1990, the Fair Employment & Housing Act (“FEHA”), the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (as amended), Government Code section 11135 and other applicable codes, the City of Modesto (“City”) will not discriminate against individuals on the basis of disability in the City’s services, programs, or activities. For more information, please visit the City of Modesto website.

Apply To:*
If other, please specify:*
First Name
leonel
Last Name
Elizarraraz
Address

City
modesto
State
ca
Zip Code
95355
Home Phone Work Phone
Email Address Occupation
self employed
Employer / Business
Business Address
City State Zip Code
Education
Qualifications:

Modesto Resident Requirement
I understand that I must be a Modesto resident in order to apply for this committee or commission.

Are you a registered voter in the City of Modesto?
Yes
No
Are you a registered voter in Stanislaus County?
Yes
No
Employment Disqualification*
I understand that I cannot be employed by the City of Modesto or Stanislaus County and serve on this commission or committee.

Are you now or have you ever been
employed by the City of Modesto?
Yes
No
If yes, in what capacity? Inclusive dates: —
Print
Boards, Commissions & Committees Application - Submission #33185 Date Submitted: 7/7/2022
Citizens Housing & Community Development Committee
7/11/2022
mm/dd/yyyy mm/dd/yyyy
#2..
- 65 -
Do you have relatives or a member of your household who are employed by the City of Modesto, or who are currently serving on the City Council, or who are Board members or Commissioners? Yes
No
If yes, please explain:

List relevant employment, training, and experience, certificates of training, licenses, and professional registration. n/a
How did you learn about the board for which you are applying? Community Group
Newspaper
Place of Employment
Utility Bill Insert
Other (Please specify)
If other, please specify:

Describe your involvement in community activities and civic organizations. (Do not list partisan political parties.) i have been involved in the community for over10 years
What is it about this position that interests you?
help people
What qualities, experience, and expertise would you bring to it? my 10 years of being involve in the community I know the needs of the community Demographics
City of Modesto invites all applicants to voluntarily self-identify their gender, race/ethnicity, veteran status and disability. Submission of this information is voluntary and refusal to provide will not affect the application process. The information will be kept confidential and will only be used in accordance with the provisions of applicable laws, executive orders and regulations, including those that require the information to be summarized and reported to the federal government for civil rights enforcement.

Gender Ethnicity
Are you currently, or have you ever, served in the Armed Forces? Do you consider yourself disabled?

#2..
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CITY OF MODESTO

COMMITTEE AGENDA REPORT
DATE OF MEETING:

September 28, 2023
Date: September 7, 2023
TO: Appointments Committee
Rosa Escutia-Braaton, Chair
Chris Ricci, Vice-Chair
Jeremiah Williams, Member
THROUGH: Joseph P. Lopez, City Manager
FROM: Diane Nayares-Perez, City Clerk
SUBJECT: Citizens’ Salary Setting Commission Appointments CONTACT: Diane Nayares-Perez, City Clerk, [email protected], 209-577-5396,
DESCRIPTION:

Consider the appointments for five vacancies on the Citizens’ Salary Setting Commission and forwarding to Council for approval. (Funding Source: Not Applicable) STRATEGIC PLAN ELEMENT:

This recommended action supports the City’s Strategic Commitment, “Build Community trust in City Government through Responsive, Transparent and Efficient Service Delivery. Goal I.

Promote Trust and Engagement between the Community and the City”.

BACKGROUND:

On February 5, 2008, voters approved Measures M (Accountability in City Hall) an amendment to the City’s Charter. Measure M called for the establishment of a Citizens’ Salary Setting Commission to consider and make recommendations regarding the Mayor and Council salaries.

Section 703(b)1 of the City of Modesto’s Charter added the formation of a Citizens’ Salary Setting Commission whose function is to recommend the compensation for the Mayor and members of the Council. According to the Charter, the Commission shall meet between March 1 st and April 30th of every even-numbered year.

Commission Requirements
The Citizens’ Salary Setting Commission shall consist of five qualified electors residing within the City and shall be appointed by the City Council pursuant to the provisions below:
1 https://library.municode.com/ca/modesto/codes/code_of_ordinances?nodeId=CHTR_ARTVIITHCO_S703COELOF #3..
- 67 -
Appointments Committee, September 28, 2023
Citizens’ Salary Setting Commission Appointments

Page 2 of 3 ends

Strong consideration shall be given to composing the Commission of:

1. A retired Stanislaus County judge to serve as chairperson;

2. One member of a bona fide local taxpayer’s association with tax exempt status under relevant Internal Revenue Service (IRS) code;

3. One member from a bona fide local non-partisan political organization with tax-exempt status under IRS Section 501 (c)(3), dedicated to encouraging informed and active participation in government;

4. One member from a former civil grand jury who has served in that role within the last five years;

5. Additional members who have demonstrated civic involvement and a capacity to serve in an honest, independent, and impartial fashion.

There are currently five vacancies on the Citizens’ Salary Setting Commission.

DISCUSSION:

The Citizens’ Salary Setting Commission has five vacancies at this time. Five applications were received.

Recruitment efforts were made by sending letters to the Superior Court of Stanislaus County to try and recruit a retired judge. A letter was also sent to the League of Women Voters to recruit for a bona fide local nonpartisan political organization, with tax-exempt status under Section 501 (c) (3) of the Internal Revenue Code, dedicated to encouraging informed and active participation in government. Additionally, an advertisement for recruitment was ran in the Modesto Bee, and posted by the Media Department on the City’s Social Media page and City website.

Below are the applicants and the corresponding categories they are eligible for:

A retired Stanislaus County judge to serve as
chairperson; No Applications
One member of a bona fide local taxpayer’s
association with tax exempt status under relevant IRS
code
No Applications
One member from a bona fide local non-partisan
political organization with tax-exempt status under
IRS Section 501 (c)(3), dedicated to encouraging
informed and active participation in government;
Julie Saugstad
Abimael Chavez-Hernandez
Colleen Preston
One member from a former civil grand jury who has
served in that role within the last five years; Colleen Preston Jan Viss
#3..
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Appointments Committee, September 28, 2023
Citizens’ Salary Setting Commission Appointments

Page 3 of 3 ends

Additional members who have demonstrated civic
involvement and a capacity to serve in an honest,
independent, and impartial fashion.

Roldon (Sandy) Sutton
Abimael Chavez-Hernandez
Jan Viss
Julie Saugstad
Colleen Preston
According to the Bylaws, the terms should be staggered; therefore, if the Appointments Committee recommends appointment of five members it is staff’s recommendation to appoint two persons to two-year terms, and three persons to four-year terms.

FISCAL IMPACT:

There is no fiscal impact.

RECOMMENDED COMMITTEE ACTION:

Staff Recommendations:

Motion recommending the appointment of two applicants for a two-year term with expiration of December 31, 2026 and three applicants for a four-year term with expiration of December 31, 2028, for the Citizens’ Salary Setting Commission and forwarding to Council for approval.

Approved by:

Diane Nayares-Perez, City Clerk
Joseph P. Lopez, City Manager
Attachments:

1. Bylaws

2. Redacted Applications (5)
#3..
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CITIZENS’ SALARY SETTING COMMISSION
BYLAWS
Article I
Definitions
Section 1 There is created a Committee to be known and designated as the Citizens’ Salary Setting Commission.

Section 2 As used in these Bylaws, unless a different meaning clearly appears from the context:

A. "Member" shall mean a member of the Citizens’ Salary Setting Commission.

B. "Citizens’ Salary Setting Commission" and "Commission" shall mean the Citizens’ Salary Setting Commission.

Article II
Objectives
Section 1 The function of the Commission shall be to recommend the compensation it deems appropriate for the Mayor and members of the Council, subject to this guidance:

A. The salary of the Mayor shall not be more than fifty percent (50%) of the salary for a Superior Court Judge in Stanislaus County.

B. The salary of a Councilmember shall not be more than fifty percent (50%) of the median family income for the Modesto Metropolitan Statistical Area as reported by the United States Census Bureau. The salary of all Councilmembers shall be the same.

Article III
Membership
Section 1 The Citizens’ Salary Setting Commission shall consist of 5 qualified electors.

Section 2 The Members of the Commission shall reside within the city limits of the City of Modesto at the time of appointment and must maintain residence within the City at all times during their service on the Commission.

Section 3 No member of the Commission shall be an employee of the City, nor any #3..
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bargaining unit for employees of the City, nor a person who receives compensation from the City or from bargaining units of the City in any manner, including retirement benefits.

Section 4 Strong consideration shall be given to composing the Commission of:
 A retired Stanislaus County judge as chairperson;
 One member from a bona fide local taxpayer’s association with taxexempt status under the relevant provisions of the Internal Revenue Code;
 One member from a bona fide local non-partisan political organization with tax-exempt status under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code, dedicated to encouraging informed and active participation in government;
 One member from a former Civil Grand Jury who has served in that role within the previous five years;
 Additional members who have demonstrated civic involvement and a capacity to serve in an honest, independent, and impartial fashion.

Section 5 All appointments shall be approved by a majority vote of the City Council.

Section 6 No member of the Commission shall be a lobbyist or other person with business before the City that represents an economic interest in excess of the limit for material financial effect as established by local ordinance for the time periods established by local ordinance.

Section 7 No member of the Commission shall be a relative by blood or marriage within the third degree of the Mayor, Councilmember, Charter Officer, or any department director or deputy department director.

Article IV
Terms of Office
Section 1 The initial five Members of the Commission shall be appointed during the month of March 2008.

Section 2 Of the initial five Members, two shall be appointed for a term expiring on December 31, 2010 and three Members, including the initial chairperson, shall be appointed for a term expiring on December 31, 2012.

Section 3 Commencing December 2010, new appointments shall be made during the month of December of each even-numbered year to fill the offices of the members whose terms are expiring as the end of such even-numbered years.

Section 4 Such appointments shall be for regular terms of four years commencing on the January 1 of the following odd-numbered year and expiring on December 31 of the second even-numbered year thereafter.
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Section 5 Members may be re-appointed after their initial term, but in no event shall any person who has served two consecutive terms on the Commission be eligible for re-appointment to the Commission.

Section 6 Serving any portion of an unexpired term shall not be counted as service of one term. Members not eligible for re-appointment may continue to serve until their successors are appointed and meet all of the qualifications outlined in Article III Membership of these bylaws. No member shall serve more than eight consecutive years, with the exception of those who are serving until their successors are appointed.

Section 7 The Members of the Commission shall receive no compensation for the performance of their official duties
Section 8 Appointments to fill vacancies on the Commission shall be handled in the same manner as original appointments. When a vacancy occurs during a term, the appointment to fill such vacancy shall be for the unexpired portion of the term.

Section 9 Members of the Commission may be removed by a majority vote of the City Council after a recommendation by the Commission chairperson for the following reasons:

A. Misconduct, inefficiency, or willful neglect in the performance of their duties providing the Council first states in writing the reasons for such removal and gives the member the opportunity to be heard before the Council in their own defense.

B. Refusal to resign from the Commission when no longer a resident of the City of Modesto.

Article V
Attendance at Meetings
Section 1 It shall be the responsibility of each Member to know the dates and times of all meetings of the Commission. If a Member knows he or she will not be able to attend a regularly scheduled meeting, it shall be his or her responsibility to notify the Commission Chair at least forty-eight hours before the meeting, in order for the absence to be recorded as an excused absence.

Section 2 The minutes of each meeting will list those Members in attendance, those who are excused and those who are unexcused.

Section 3 Timely attendance at meetings is expected and necessary to carry out the mission of the Commission.

Article VI
#3..
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Officers and Their Duties
Section 1 Officers shall consist of Chair, as appointed by the City Council, and Vice-chair, elected by a majority vote of the Members of the Commission. Officers shall serve a four-year term.

Section 2 All officers shall exercise all privileges of membership, including the making of motions, seconding and debate.

Section 3 The Chair shall not serve more than two consecutive four-year terms.

The Vice-chair shall not serve more than two consecutive four-year terms.

Section 4 The Chair shall preside at all meetings, shall appoint all ad-hoc committees, and shall ensure that the bylaws, rules and regulations as adopted by the Commission are properly enforced.

Section 5 The Vice-chair shall assist the Chair in his/her duties and in the absence of the Chair shall perform all duties usually performed by the Chair.

Section 6 The Office of the City Clerk shall provide a staff member to serve as secretary.

He/she shall keep a record of the minutes of all meetings and such other duties as are usually performed by a secretary. He/she shall supply the Members of the Commission with copies of all records taken within three days after a meeting takes place. He/she shall also assist in publicity releases concerning Commission activities.

Article VII
Meetings
Section 1 The Commission shall conduct sufficient number of meetings during the months of March and April in even-numbered years to assure the Objectives as outlined in Article II are achieved.

Section 2 Special meetings shall be called by the Chair as necessary.

Section 3 Notices of all meetings, including an agenda, shall be given to all members of the Commission, to the City Clerk, to the City Manager, and to all others as provided by law. All such notices shall be furnished to the Commission in writing at least seventy-two hours prior to the time of such meeting.

Section 4 All meeting agendas will be posted at Tenth Street Place and will be available at the following public facilities: Tenth Street Place and at the Main Branch of the Stanislaus County Free Library.

Section 5 All meetings shall comply with the requirements of the Ralph M. Brown Act.

Section 6 A quorum is necessary for the Commission to transact any business. A quorum shall be defined as a simple majority of active Commission members. #3..
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Section 7 All meetings of the Commission shall be open to the public and shall be held at a public facility, which is accessible in accordance with the regulations of the Americans with Disabilities Act.

Article VIII
Order of Proceedings
Section 1 Sturgis' Standard Code of Parliamentary Procedure shall be the guide for parliamentary procedures in the conduct of Commission meetings.

Section 2 The order of proceedings of all meetings shall be as follows, subject to majority vote of the Members present:

1. Call to order

2. Approval of Minutes

3. Written Communications

4. Old Business

5. New Business

6. Oral Communications

7. Matters Too Late for the Agenda

8. Adjournment
Section 3 Members of the public shall not speak unless recognized by the Chair and shall state their names and addresses before making any statement, which shall become a part of the public record. The Chair may remove any person who refuses to follow these rules or the decision of the Chair.

Article IX
Report to the City
Section 1 The Commission’s recommendation will be made to the City Council by April 30 of every even-numbered year to be effective for a two-year period commencing not before July 1 of that even-numbered year.

Section 2 Failure of the Commission to make a recommendation in any even-numbered year within the prescribed time shall be deemed to be a recommendation that no change be made to existing compensation levels.

Article X
Amendments
#3..
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Section 1 The Bylaws and any future amendments shall be subject to the final approval of the City Council and shall not and are not intended to go beyond any of the powers and duties given to the Commission by the City Council. #3..
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Print
Title II Compliance
In accordance with the requirements of Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act (“ADA”) of 1990, the Fair Employment & Housing Act (“FEHA”), the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (as amended), Government Code section 11135 and other applicable codes, the City of Modesto (“City”) will not discriminate against individuals on the basis of disability in the City’s services, programs, or activities. For more information, please visit the City of Modesto website.

Apply To:*
If other, please specify:*
Note: The application period for the Community Police Review Board ended on January 31st, 2023. The Measure H Oversight board application period ended March 24th, 2023.

First Name
Julie
Last Name
Saugstad
Date of Birth* School* Grade*
Address

City
Modesto
State
CA
Zip Code
95354
What Council District do you live in?
Home Phone Work Phone
Boards, Commissions & Committees Application - Submission #39604 Date Submitted: 7/6/2023
Salary Setting Commission -- Select One --
mm/dd/yyyy
#3..
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Email Address
[email protected]
Occupation
retired
Employer / Business
Business Address
City State Zip Code
Education
BA,
Qualifications:

Yes
No
Are you a retired Stanislaus County judge?*
Yes
No
Are you a member from a bona fide local taxpayer's association with tax exempt status under the relevant provisions of the Internal Revenue Code?*
Yes
No
Are you a member from a bona fide local nonpartisan political organization, with tax-exempt status under Section 501(c) (3) of the Internal Revenue Code, dedicated to encouraging informed and active participation in government?* Yes
No
Are you a member from a former Civil Grand Jury who has served in that role within in the previous five years?* #3..
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Yes
No
Do you consider yourself to have demonstrated civic involvement and a capacity to serve in an honest, independent, and impartial fashion?*
No, I am not a member of these groups.

Schools
Local Trade Associations
Chambers of Commerce
Nonprofit Organizations
Senior Citizens Groups
Non-partisan Political Organizations
Tax-payer Associations
Neighborhood Organizations
Are you a member of any of these groups?*
Check all that apply.

If so, please list the names of the groups you are a member of:* I understand that I am unable to apply for this committee if I am or have been a lobbyist.

Past Lobbyist Disqualification*
If you do not meet at least one of the qualifications for the committee or commission you wish to apply for, your application may be rejected. Please review our other committees and commissions and apply for another that meets your interests or skillset.

Yes
No
Are you now or have you ever been a lobbyist?* Add inclusive date range:
—
I understand that I must not have economic financial interest with the City of Modesto to apply for this committee.

Economic Interest Disqualification*
If you do not meet at least one of the qualifications for the committee or commission you wish to apply for, your application may be rejected. Please review our other committees and commissions and apply for another that meets your interests or skillset.

Yes
No
Have you done business with the City that represents
an economic interest?*
Add inclusive date range:
—
mm/dd/yyyy mm/dd/yyyy
mm/dd/yyyy mm/dd/yyyy
#3..
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Yes
No
Are you an active Certified Public Accountant (CPA)?*
I understand that I must have at least 2 years in financial or performance auditing to apply for this committee.

Financial Accounting or Performance Auditing Experience Requirement* If you do not meet at least one of the qualifications for the committee or commission you wish to apply for, your application may be rejected. Please review our other committees and commissions and apply for another that meets your interests or skillset.

Yes
No
Do you have two (2) or more years’ experience in financial or performance auditing? I understand that I must be enrolled full-time in High School in order to apply for this committee or commission.

Full-time Highschool Enrollment Requirement*
If you do not meet at least one of the qualifications for the committee or commission you wish to apply for, your application may be rejected. Please review our other committees and commissions and apply for another that meets your interests or skillset.

Yes
No
Are you enrolled full-time in high school?*
I understand that I must be a Modesto resident in order to apply for this committee or commission.

Modesto Resident Requirement*
If you do not meet at least one of the qualifications for the committee or commission you wish to apply for, your application may be rejected. Please review our other committees and commissions and apply for another that meets your interests or skillset.

Yes
No
Are you a Modesto resident?* If yes, what was the date of residency? I understand that I must be a registered voter in the City of Modesto to apply for this committee or commission.

Registered Voter Requirement*
If you do not meet at least one of the qualifications for the committee or commission you wish to apply for, your application may be rejected. Please review our other committees and commissions and apply for another that meets your interests or skillset.
mm/dd/yyyy
#3..
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Yes
No
Are you a registered voter in the City of Modesto?
Yes
No
Are you a registered voter in Stanislaus County?
I understand that I cannot be employed by the City of Modesto or Stanislaus County and serve on this commission or committee.

Employment Disqualification*
If you do not meet at least one of the qualifications for the committee or commission you wish to apply for, your application may be rejected. Please review our other committees and commissions and apply for another that meets your interests or skillset.

Yes
No
Are you now or have you ever
been employed by the City of
Modesto?*
If yes, in what capacity? Inclusive dates:
—
I understand that I am unable to apply for this committee if I am a relative by blood or marriage to the third degree of the mayor, member of the Council, any Charter Officer, or any department head.

Relative Disqualification*
If you do not meet at least one of the qualifications for the committee or commission you wish to apply for, your application may be rejected. Please review our other committees and commissions and apply for another that meets your interests or skillset.

Yes
No
Are you a relative by blood or marriage to the third degree of the mayor, member of the Council, any Charter Officer, or any department head or deputy department head?*
Yes
No
Do you have relatives or a member of your household who are employed by the City of Modesto, or who are currently serving on the City Council, or who are Board members or Commissioners? If yes, please explain:

List relevant employment, training, and experience, certificates of training, licenses, and professional registration. mm/dd/yyyy
mm/dd/yyyy
#3..
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Community Group
Newspaper
Place of Employment
Utility Bill Insert
Other (Please specify)
How did you learn about the board for which you are applying? If other, please specify:

Describe your involvement in community activities and civic organizations. (Do not list partisan political parties.) Currently vice president for League of Women Voters of Stanislaus County, have also served as president, treasurer, secretary and voter service director. Also on Friends of the Modesto Library board.

What is it about this position that interests you?
I believe good government is well served by community oversight. Providing appropriate compensation is likely to result in potentially qualified candidates for our city council.

What qualities, experience, and expertise would you bring to it? Experience understanding and developing budgets in League of Women Voters and in prior employment with Girl Scouts Heart of Central California.

Demographics
City of Modesto invites all applicants to voluntarily self-identify their gender, race/ethnicity, veteran status and disability.

Submission of this information is voluntary and refusal to provide will not affect the application process. The information will be kept confidential and will only be used in accordance with the provisions of applicable laws, executive orders and regulations, including those that require the information to be summarized and reported to the federal government for civil rights enforcement.

#3..
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Why do you want to serve on the Youth Commission?*
What do you see as the primary issues currently impacting youth in our community?* What skills and talents will you bring to the Commission?* What other clubs and extra curriculars are you involved in?* a. How many hours a week do you spend in these activities? *
b. How will you prioritize your involvement in this role?* What do you enjoy doing with your free time?*
Yes
No
Are you able to meet the time and travel commitments of approximately three to four hours per month that come as a member of this commission?*
Regular general meetings are held on the 3rd Thursday of the month 4:00 p.m. at the Neighborhood Center at Marshall Park located at 420 Chicago Avenue, Building A, Modesto, CA 95351.

Note: To stay apprised of youth issues in Modesto, attendance at other meetings, such as City Council and other City boards and commissions, will be encouraged.

If selected, I commit to attending all my meetings and serving diligently to represent the youth of Modesto on the Youth Commission.

Applicant Acknowledgement*
If selected, I commit to attending all my meetings and serving diligently to represent the youth of Modesto on the Youth Commission.

Parent / Guardian Acknowledgement *
#3..
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1 Dana Sanchez
From: [email protected]
Sent: Friday, September 1, 2023 10:52 AM
To: Optimize; Diane Nayares-Perez; Dana Sanchez
Subject: Online Form Submission #40361 for Boards, Commissions & Committees Application External Email: Please use caution when clicking links and/or opening attachments.

Apply To: Salary Setting Commission
First Name Abimael
Last Name Chavez-Hernandez
Address
City Modesto
State California
Zip Code 95351
Home Phone
Work Phone
Email Address
Occupation Economic Analyst
Employer / Business West Modesto Community Collaborative Business Address 601 South Martin Luther King Drive
City Modesto
State California
#3..
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2 Zip Code 95351
Education BA, Political Science
Master of Public Policy, University of Minnesota-Twin Cities (Section Break)
Qualifications:

Are you a retired Stanislaus
County judge?
No
Are you a member from a
bona fide local taxpayer's
association with tax exempt
status under the relevant
provisions of the Internal
Revenue Code?
No
Are you a member from a
bona fide local nonpartisan
political organization, with
tax-exempt status under
Section 501(c)(3) of the
Internal Revenue Code,
dedicated to encouraging
informed and active
participation in
government?
Yes
Are you a member from a
former Civil Grand Jury who
has served in that role
within in the previous five
years?
No
Do you consider yourself to
have demonstrated civic
involvement and a capacity
to serve in an honest,
independent, and impartial
fashion?
Yes
Are you a Modesto
resident?
Yes
If yes, what was the date of
residency?
9/20/1997
Are you a registered voter
in the City of Modesto?
Yes
#3..
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3 Are you now or have you
ever been employed by the
City of Modesto?
No
Inclusive dates: Field not completed.

Economic Justice Policy Associate, SPUR
Policy Analyst, Minnesota Budget Project
Partnerships Specialist, US Census Bureau
How did you learn about
the board for which you are
applying?
Other (Please specify)
If other, please specify: Facebook guided me towards open board and commissions seats
Describe your involvement
in community activities and
civic organizations. (Do not
list partisan political
parties.)
I currently work for the West Modesto Community
Collaborative, which provides services to community members and is working to increase civic engagement and participation with area residents
What is it about this
position that interests you?
Equity is a core principle to my professional development and I believe it should be a stronger in the region's economic development strategies and political development
What qualities, experience,
and expertise would you
bring to it?
I have worked in several organizations in California and Minnesota advocating for equity in budgets, government
processes, and outcomes
(Section Break)
Demographics
City of Modesto invites all applicants to voluntarily self-identify their gender, race/ethnicity, veteran status and disability. Submission of this information is voluntary and refusal to provide will not affect the application process. The information will be kept confidential and will only be used in accordance with the provisions of applicable laws, executive orders and regulations, including those that #3..
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4 require the information to be summarized and reported to the federal government for civil rights enforcement.
(Section Break)
Email not displaying correctly? View it in your browser. #3..
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Print
Title II Compliance
In accordance with the requirements of Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act (“ADA”) of 1990, the Fair Employment & Housing Act (“FEHA”), the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (as amended), Government Code section 11135 and other applicable codes, the City of Modesto (“City”) will not discriminate against individuals on the basis of disability in the City’s services, programs, or activities. For more information, please visit the City of Modesto website.

First Name
Jan
Last Name
Viss
Date of Birth* School* Grade*
Address
i
City
Modesto
State
Ca
Zip Code
95356
What Council District do you live in?
Home Phone Work Phone
Boards, Commissions & Committees Application - Submission #39862 Date Submitted: 7/25/2023
Salary Setting Commission -- Select One --
mm/dd/yyyy
#3..
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Email Address Occupation
Retired from Stanislaus County
Employer / Business
Business Address
City State Zip Code
Education
Bachelor Degree in Sociology,
Master in Social Work with a focus on Community Organization and Administration, Qualifications:

Yes
No
Are you a retired Stanislaus County judge?*
Yes
No
Are you a member from a bona fide local taxpayer's association with tax exempt status under the relevant provisions of the Internal Revenue Code?*
Yes
No
Are you a member from a bona fide local nonpartisan political organization, with tax-exempt status under Section 501(c) (3) of the Internal Revenue Code, dedicated to encouraging informed and active participation in government?* Yes
No
Are you a member from a former Civil Grand Jury who has served in that role within in the previous five years?* #3..
- 88 -
Yes
No
Do you consider yourself to have demonstrated civic involvement and a capacity to serve in an honest, independent, and impartial fashion?*
No, I am not a member of these groups.

If so, please list the names of the groups you are a member of:* I understand that I am unable to apply for this committee if I am or have been a lobbyist.

Yes
No
Are you now or have you ever been a lobbyist?* Add inclusive date range:
—
I understand that I must not have economic financial interest with the City of Modesto to apply for this committee.

Yes
No
Have you done business with the City that represents
an economic interest?*
Add inclusive date range:
—
mm/dd/yyyy mm/dd/yyyy
mm/dd/yyyy mm/dd/yyyy
#3..
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Yes
No
Are you an active Certified Public Accountant (CPA)?*
I understand that I must have at least 2 years in financial or performance auditing to apply for this committee.

Yes
No
Are you enrolled full-time in high school?*
I understand that I must be a Modesto resident in order to apply for this committee or commission.

Yes
No
Are you a Modesto resident?* If yes, what was the date of residency? I understand that I must be a registered voter in the City of Modesto to apply for this committee or commission.

Registered Voter Requirement*
If you do not meet at least one of the qualifications for the committee or commission you wish to apply for, your application may be rejected. Please review our other committees and commissions and apply for another that meets your interests or skillset.
7/10/1959
#3..
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Yes
No
Are you a registered voter in the City of Modesto?
Yes
No
Are you a registered voter in Stanislaus County?
I understand that I cannot be employed by the City of Modesto or Stanislaus County and serve on this commission or committee.

I have a nephew that is a fireman for the City of Modesto mm/dd/yyyy
mm/dd/yyyy
#3..
- 91 -
List relevant employment, training, and experience, certificates of training, licenses, and professional registration.

I retired as the Assistant Director of the Community Services Agency where I was responsible for Child Protective Services, Adult Protective Services and In Home Supportive Services. In that capacity, it was imperative to be impartial to best serve children and adults in our community. I am a critical thinker, looking at all sides of a situation. I have participated in salary assessments as part of my administrative role. Have also been involved in union negotiations.

Founding Board Member of Stanislaus Court Appointed Special Advocates Founding Board Member of Stanislaus County Child Abuse Prevention Council.

Have served as Board of Trustee for Dordt University. Have served on various committees both locally and state wide in my role as a Child Welfare Administrator.

After retirement I served as a consultant for California County's Child Welfare and Juvenile Probation Departments to assist them in improving outcomes for children and families.

Community Group
Newspaper
Place of Employment
Utility Bill Insert
Other (Please specify)
How did you learn about the board for which you are applying? If other, please specify:

Notified by the Civil Grand Jury
Describe your involvement in community activities and civic organizations. (Do not list partisan political parties.) My last involvement was with the Civil Grand Jury. I do volunteer work for the church I attend.

What is it about this position that interests you?
I do enjoy serving my community and this looks like a great opportunity. The roles of the Mayor and City Council members is an important one in our community.

What qualities, experience, and expertise would you bring to it? All the above qualities mentioned above. If you are looking for someone who is fair, not coming with an agenda, and will be a critical thinker, these are the qualities I bring. I also have a strong administrative background.

Demographics
City of Modesto invites all applicants to voluntarily self-identify their gender, race/ethnicity, veteran status and disability.

Why do you want to serve on the Youth Commission?*
What do you see as the primary issues currently impacting youth in our community?* What skills and talents will you bring to the Commission?* What other clubs and extra curriculars are you involved in?* a. How many hours a week do you spend in these activities? *
b. How will you prioritize your involvement in this role?* What do you enjoy doing with your free time?*
#3..
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Yes
No
Are you able to meet the time and travel commitments of approximately three to four hours per month that come as a member of this commission?*
Regular general meetings are held on the 3rd Thursday of the month 4:00 p.m. at the Neighborhood Center at Marshall Park located at 420 Chicago Avenue, Building A, Modesto, CA 95351.

Note: To stay apprised of youth issues in Modesto, attendance at other meetings, such as City Council and other City boards and commissions, will be encouraged.

If selected, I commit to attending all my meetings and serving diligently to represent the youth of Modesto on the Youth Commission.

Applicant Acknowledgement*
If selected, I commit to attending all my meetings and serving diligently to represent the youth of Modesto on the Youth Commission.

Parent / Guardian Acknowledgement *
#3..
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Title II Compliance
In accordance with the requirements of Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act (“ADA”) of 1990, the Fair Employment & Housing Act (“FEHA”), the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (as amended), Government Code section 11135 and other applicable codes, the City of Modesto (“City”) will not discriminate against individuals on the basis of disability in the City’s services, programs, or activities. For more information, please visit the City of Modesto website.

Apply To:*
-- Select One --
First Name Last Name
Address
City State Zip Code
Home Phone Work Phone
Email Address Occupation
Employer / Business
Business Address
Boards, Commissions & Committees Application Save Progress Form Center My Forms

#3..
- 95 -
City State Zip Code
Education
Qualifications:

Yes
No
Are you a member from a bona fide local nonpartisan political organization, with tax-exempt status under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code, dedicated to encouraging informed and active participation in government?*
Yes
No
Are you a member from a former Civil Grand Jury who has served in that role within in the previous five years?*
Yes
No
Are you a Modesto resident?*
Yes
No
Are you a registered voter in the City of
Modesto?
Yes
No
Are you a registered voter in Stanislaus
County?
Yes
No
Are you now or have you
ever been employed by the
City of Modesto?*
Inclusive dates:
—
Yes
No
Do you have relatives or a member of your household who are employed by the City of Modesto, or who are currently serving on the City Council, or who are Board members or Commissioners?
List relevant employment, training, and experience, certificates of training, licenses, and professional registration.
mm/dd/yyyy
mm/dd/yyyy
Enable Google Translate
#3..
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Community Group
Newspaper
Place of Employment
Utility Bill Insert
Other (Please specify)
How did you learn about the board for which you are applying? Describe your involvement in community activities and civic organizations. (Do not list partisan political parties.)
What is it about this position that interests you?
What qualities, experience, and expertise would you bring to it?

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CITY OF MODESTO

COMMITTEE AGENDA REPORT
DATE OF MEETING:

September 28, 2023
September 6, 2023
TO: Appointments Committee
Rosa Escutia-Braaton, Chair
Chris Ricci, Vice-Chair
Jeremiah Williams, Member
THROUGH: Joseph P. Lopez, City Manager
FROM: Christina Alger, Director of Human Resources
SUBJECT: Equity Commission Appointments
CONTACT: Christina Alger, Director of Human Resources, [email protected], 209-571- 5126
DESCRIPTION:

Consider the appointment of one vacancy on the Equity Commission for a partial unexpired term ending December 31, 2026 and forwarding to Council for approval. (Funding Source: Not Applicable)
STRATEGIC PLAN ELEMENT:

The recommended action supports the City of Modesto’s 2020-2025 Strategic Plan Initiative:

Service and Delivery Goal I: Promote trust and engagement between the community and the City; and Goal J: Build a high-performance organization.

BACKGROUND:

The Equity Commission was adopted by Council on January 25, 2022, by Resolution No. 2022- 054. This action renamed and repurposed the Equal Opportunity/Disability Commission to the Equity Commission. The original commission was charged with advising on matters related to equal employment opportunity. This Commission had become dormant for approximately the last five years.

City staff created a Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) program which also was adopted on January 25, 2022, by Resolution No. 2022-051. This comprehensive program addresses needed focus and training of staff City-wide for both internal relations and service to our community. Under the program are multiple Plans that address various aspects of DEI to include the Equal Employment Opportunity Plan, Language Access Plan, Americans with Disabilities (ADA) Plan, and the supporting Equity Commission. #4..
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Appointments Committee, September 28, 2023
Equity Commission Appointments

Page 2 of 3 ends

The Equity Commission’s purpose is to advise on matters related to all facets of the DEI program and subsequent plans and initiatives. The former Equal Opportunity/Disability Commission jointly met with the Human Relations Commission. This practice will continue with the Equity Commission.

On June 30, 2022, nine applications were taken to the Appointments Committee. Six applications were recommended to move forward to City Council for approval. On August 9, 2022, City Council approved six appointments by Resolution No. 2022-332 for a term expiration of August 1, 2026, leaving five vacant seats.

On September 15, 2022, sixteen applications were taken to the Appointments Committee. Four applications were selected and recommended to move forward to City Council for approval. On October 11, 2022, all four appointments were approved by Resolution No. 2022-409 for a term expiration of October 1, 2026.

On December 12, 2022, sixteen applications were taken to the Appointments Committee. Two applications were selected and recommended to move forward to City Council for approval. On January 20, 2023, these appointments were approved by Resolution No. 2023-01 for a term expiration of January 1, 2027.

On March 7, 2023, City Council accepted the resignation of Maya Ramirez from the City of Modesto’s Equity Commission by Resolution No. 2023-88. On May 2, 2023, City Council accepted the resignation of Gabreilla Fierro from the City of Modesto’s Equity Commission by Resolution No. 2023-193. On May 23, 2023, City Council accepted the resignation of A’Kia Walker from the City of Modesto Equity Commission by Resolution No. 2023-229.

The Equity Commissioners met in a Special Meeting on July 31, 2023, to review and revise the current Equity Commission bylaws. The Equity Commissioners voted to change the Equity Commissioners member count from eleven Equity Commissioners to seven Equity Commissioners. At least five members must be residents of Modesto who are registered to vote. Up to two members may be non-Modesto residents of Stanislaus County who are registered to vote in Stanislaus County.

On September 13, 2023, City Council approved the resignations of Stacy Sottero and Fallon Ferris from the City of Modesto’s Equity Commission by Resolution No. 2023-393.

On September 13, 2023, City Council approved the revised Equity Commission bylaws by Resolution 2023-409 bringing the number of Equity Commissioner seats from eleven to seven.

With the five resignations and the change number of Equity Commission seats to seven, there is one vacant Equity Commission seat available.

DISCUSSION:

City staff did extensive outreach previously to solicit applications from interested citizens. City staff emailed seven local community groups to share information on the Equity Commission, the DEI program and asked them to share with their members. We also began advertising these remaining seats on various social media platforms to gain applications: Facebook 7/15/22, 7/19/22, 7/26/22, Twitter 7/14/22, 7/19/22, 7/26/22, LinkedIn 7/14/22, 7/26/22, Nextdoor 7/14/22, Instagram Story 7/14/22 and the Modesto Bee on 8/13/23 and 8/14/23. A total of thirty-three #4..
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Appointments Committee, September 28, 2023
Equity Commission Appointments

Page 3 of 3 ends

applications have been received to date and there are eight active applications for consideration.

FISCAL IMPACT:

There is no fiscal impact associated with this action.

RECOMMENDED COMMITTEE ACTION:

Staff Recommendations:

Motion recommending the appointment of one applicant to the Equity Commission for a partial unexpired term ending December 31, 2026 and forwarding to Council for approval.

Approved by:

Christina Alger, Director of Human Resources
Joseph P. Lopez, City Manager
Attachments:

1. Equity Commission Bylaws

2. Candidate Comparison Summary 9.2023

3. Equity Commission Applications 9.6.23
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1 Adopted 2/22/88
Amended by City Council 2/16/93
Amended by Commission 1/23/2012
Amended by City Council 1/25/22
Amended by Commission 9/12/23

RULES OF PROCEDURE
OF THE

EQUITY COMMISSION
OF THE

CITY OF MODESTO

ARTICLE I

ORGANIZATION
Section 1.1 Establishment.

A. The Affirmative Action Commission of the City of Modesto was established pursuant to the provisions of the Affirmative Action Program established by Modesto City Council Resolution No. 87-237 on April 7, 1987.

B. Following the passage of California’s Proposition 209, the City amended relevant policies and procedures to comply with the new law. As part of that effort, pursuant to Council Resolution No. 98-134 on March 3, 1998, the name of the Commission was changed to Equal Opportunity/Disability Commission, to more accurately reflect its mission.

C. In 2021 and early 2022, in an effort to better meet the needs of the community and workforce, the City reviewed the Commission’s mission. To better align with the goals of the City, on January 25, 2022, pursuant to Council Resolution No. 2022-054, the Commission was retitled from the Equal Opportunity/Disability Commission to the Equity Commission.

ARTICLE II
DUTIES
Section 2.1 Duties. The duties of the Equity Commission are:

A. To advise the City Manager and the City Council in matters that relate to equity and inclusion, equal opportunity and disability-related issues.

B. To formulate and recommend policy to the City Council and City Manager in matters that pertain to equity and inclusion, equal opportunity and disability related issues that affect the City workforce and services provided by the City to the community.

C. To review the practices and procedures of the City of Modesto in all matters that relate to equity and inclusion, equal opportunity, and disability-related issues that affect the City workforce and services provided by the City to the community.

D. To monitor the activities and efforts of the City’s Diversity, Equity and Inclusion #4..
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2 Adopted 2/22/88
Amended by City Council 2/16/93
Amended by Commission 1/23/2012
Amended by City Council 1/25/22
Amended by Commission 9/12/23
Program.

E. To monitor the City’s performance in meeting its goals related to equity and inclusion, equal opportunity, and disability-related issues.

F. To be updated statistically on complaints and grievances submitted to the City of Modesto in regard to equity and inclusion, equal opportunity, and disabilityrelated issues.

ARTICLE III

MEETINGS
Sections 3.1 Regular Meetings. A regular meeting of the Commission shall be held at 5:00 p.m. on the third Monday of each calendar month, except for January and February when meetings will be held on the fourth Monday due to observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day and President's Day.

Section 3.2 Special Meetings. A special meeting may be called at any time by the Chair of the Commission or upon the written request of three (3) members of the Commission.

Whenever a special meeting shall be called, written notice of such meeting shall be made in accordance with the Ralph M. Brown Act as described in Section 3.6 hereof.

Section 3.3 Place of Meetings. Meetings shall be held at the location designated in the agenda for the meeting.

Section 3.4 Meetings to be Public. All meetings of the Commission shall be open to the public.

Section 3.5 Attendance. Regular attendance at all meetings of the Commission is required of all members to enable the Commission to discharge its duties. Any Commissioner who is absent from three (3) consecutive regular meetings of the Commission, or from four (4) regular meetings within any 12-month period, shall be deemed to have forfeited their seat on the Commission, and shall be ineligible to reapply for a seat on the Commission for the remainder of the calendar year and the following calendar year. The Secretary shall report to the Commission when a Commissioner has accrued either three consecutive absences or four absences within any 12-month period..

Section 3.6 Agenda. In order to facilitate the orderly conduct of the business of the Commission:

A. The Secretary, in consultation with the Chair, shall arrange a list of the matters to be considered by the Commission at its next meeting in accordance with the order of business. The agenda and all other reports and other supplemental material shall be delivered (electronic, postal, or other means as needed) to each member of the Commission prior to the Commission meeting at which they are to be considered as far as possible in advance of #4..
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3 Adopted 2/22/88
Amended by City Council 2/16/93
Amended by Commission 1/23/2012
Amended by City Council 1/25/22
Amended by Commission 9/12/23
the meeting as time will permit.

B. Any Commissioner may request that an item be added to the agenda prior to the legal posting requirement, and in consultation with the Chair and Secretary C. In accordance with the Ralph M. Brown Act, the agenda will be posted in a place freely accessible to the public prior to the meeting in accordance with the Brown Act.

D. Members of the public may make public comments during the Public Comments portion of each regular Commission meeting and on each agendized item. The Chair shall have discretion to limit the time allowed for public comments. Members of the public may also submit written comments via email: All comments will be shared with the Commissioners and placed in the record, but will not be read aloud during the meeting. Written comments must be received two hours before the meeting. Matters presented via public comment on non-agendized items cannot be discussed or acted upon by the Commission at that meeting. Commissioners may respond by briefly responding to statements made or questions raised, asking questions for clarification, providing references to staff or other resources for factual information, requesting staff to report back at a subsequent meeting, or directing staff to place a matter of business on a future agenda.

E. The agenda shall specify the time and place of the meeting and a brief description of each item of business to be transacted.

Section 3.7 Order of Business. The order of business shall be:

A. Call to Order
B. Roll Call and Secretary’s Report of Absences
C. Public Comments
D. Approval of Minutes
E. Reports
Chair
Committees
Staff
F. Unfinished Business
G. New Business.

H. Adjournment.

Section 3.8 Reading the Minutes. Unless the reading of the minutes of the Commission meeting is requested by a member of the Commission, such minutes may be approved without reading if the Secretary has previously furnished each member of the Commission with a copy thereof.

Section 3.9 Method of Action. All decisions of the Commission shall be by motion and, #4..
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4 Adopted 2/22/88
Amended by City Council 2/16/93
Amended by Commission 1/23/2012
Amended by City Council 1/25/22
Amended by Commission 9/12/23
unless otherwise specified by Charter, ordinance or law, shall carry upon a majority vote of the Commissioners present. Upon the request of any member, a roll call vote shall be taken and recorded. Whenever a roll call vote of the Commission is taken, the names of the members shall be called in alphabetical order except that the name of the presiding officer shall be called last.

ARTICLE IV
QUORUM
Section 4.1 Quorum. T h e C o m m i s s i o n m a y c o n v e n e a m e e t i n g a n d t r a n s a c t b u s i n e s s o n l y w h e n a q u o r u m i s p r e s e n t . A q u o r u m s h a l l c o n s i s t o f a majority of the active members of the Commission. Active members are members who have been appointed by the City Council and have not resigned or forfeited their seat based on attendance.

ARTICLE V

MEMBERS AND

ELECTED OFFICERS
Section 5.1 Members. The membership of the Commission shall consist of seven Commissioners, appointed by the City Council. All members must reside in Stanislaus County. At least five members must be residents of Modesto who are registered to vote in Modesto if they are eligible to register to vote. Up to two members may be nonModesto residents of Stanislaus County who are registered to vote in Stanislaus County if they are eligible to register to vote. Each Commissioner will be appointed for a fouryear term beginning on January 1, with the first term beginning on January 1, 2023 and ending on December 31, 2026. If a member appointed to a four-year term resigns before the conclusion of that term, the Secretary will notify the City Council of the vacancy so that the Council may appoint a replacement member to serve out the remainder of the term.

Section 5.2 Chair and Vice Chair. The elected officers of the Commission shall be:

A Chair, whose duties shall be to preside at all meetings, assist with preparation of each meeting’s agenda, call special meetings, appoint members to committees, and serve as an ex officio member of all Commission committees; and
A Vice Chair, who shall perform the duties of the Chair in the Chair’s absence.

Section 5.3 Election of Officers. The Chair and Vice Chair of the Commission shall be elected annually at the regular meeting in January. Each officer is to hold office for no more than two terms consecutively.

Section 5.4 Interim Vacancies. If the Vice Chair of the Commission vacates that office prior to the end of his/her term, the Chair may appoint an interim Vice Chair for the #4..
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5 Adopted 2/22/88
Amended by City Council 2/16/93
Amended by Commission 1/23/2012
Amended by City Council 1/25/22
Amended by Commission 9/12/23
remainder of the calendar year.

If the Chair of the Commission vacates that office prior to the end of his/her term, an interim Chair shall be elected by the Commission for the remainder of the calendar year.

ARTICLE VI

PROCEDURES, POWERS, DUTIES AND STAFF
Section 6.1 Governing Rules. The Commission shall be governed in order of precedence as follows: applicable federal and state law, the City Charter, Municipal Code, Resolutions or Ordinances of the City of Modesto and these Rules of Procedure.

Section 6.2 Secretary. The City shall appoint a staff representative to serve as the Commission’s Secretary. The Secretary shall keep a written record of all business transacted by the Commission, notify Commission members of meetings, keep official records of the Commission, and perform such other duties as the Commission may require.

Section 6.3 Amendment of Rules of Procedure. These Rules of Procedure may be amended from time to time by motion adopted by an affirmative vote of a majority of the active members of the Commission.

ARTICLE VII

PARLIAMENTARY PROCEDURE
Section 7.1 Robert’s Rules of Order. Except as otherwise provided in these Rules of Procedure, all meetings of the Commission shall be conducted in accordance with the current edition of “Robert’s Rules of Order.”

ARTICLE VIII

COMMITTEES
Section 8.1 Standing Committees.

The standing committees of the Commission shall be the Internal Committee, which shall address matters concerning the City’s relationship with its employees; the External Committee, which shall address the City’s relationship with the community; and the Community Outreach Committee, which shall address outreach to the community concerning the Commission’s efforts and plans and make efforts to obtain community input on the City’s performance regarding diversity, equity and inclusion.

The Chair shall appoint members of each standing committee to serve until the next annual meeting of the Commission in January, and the number of Commissioners appointed to any standing committee must be fewer than the number required to #4..
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6 Adopted 2/22/88
Amended by City Council 2/16/93
Amended by Commission 1/23/2012
Amended by City Council 1/25/22
Amended by Commission 9/12/23
establish a quorum as specified in Article IV herein. Members appointed to fill vacancies on Committees shall serve for the unexpired terms of the members they replace.

The Chair shall serve as an ex officio member of each standing committee. Each Commissioner must serve on at least one standing committee. Each standing committee shall choose a chair, who shall schedule meetings at a time when all Committee members are able to attend.

Section 8.2 Special Committees. There shall be such special committees as the Commission may establish from time to time. The members of such special committees shall be appointed by the Chair of the Commission and shall serve for terms established by the Commission.

Section 8.3 Ex Officio Committee Member. The Chair of the Commission shall serve as an ex officio member of all Commission committees.
#4..
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Candidate 1. Bryson Lambert 2. Margaret James 3. Margie Johnson 4. Abimael Chavez-Hernandez District 5 No District. Lives
outside Modesto
2 2
Occupation Gallo Security Guard Retired Self-Reported as “Disabled” Economic Analyst Education Beyer High School
and Modesto Junior
College – Political
Science
Some college Field Not completed Bachelor’s Degree in Political Science, master’s degree in public policy
Resident of
Modesto?
Yes No Yes Yes
Registered
Voter?
Yes No Yes Yes
Registered
voter in
Stanislaus
County?
Yes Yes Yes Yes
Have or ever
been a City
of Modesto
employee?
No Yes No No
Relevant
experience
Field Not completed “My City service in the
C&ED Dept provided an
understanding of
business & employment
practices. I have
business assistance
training & experience
through my work with
small businesses &
corporations for the
development of
community job
opportunities. I also
served as staff to the
Entertainment
Commission for
community events
permitting.”
“I have volunteered for a lot of
organizations in the County.”
“Economic Justice Policy Associate, SPUR
Policy Analyst, Minnesota Budget Project
Partnerships Specialist, US Census Bureau”
Community
Involvement
“I work as an
Explorer with
Modesto Police
Department and
have had a great
“I currently serve on the
Executive Committee of
the Modesto/Stanislaus
NAACP.”
“I try to attend any meetings that are open
to the public. Any information that I father
from these meetings help me be a better
person to help people.”
“I currently work for the West Modesto
Community Collaborative, which provides
services to community members and is
#4..
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time interacting with
the community it has
given me a great
outlook on how to
treat others and
overall knowledge of
our current society.”
working to increase civic engagement and
participation with area residents.”
What it is
about this
position that
interests
you?
“Creating a
difference and
helping those in
need that need their
voice heard stand
out, it has been a
dream overall to help
others and create
equality no matter
the person.”
“I wish to assist in the
City’s efforts to promote
a culture and
community of diversity,
equity and inclusion.”
“Bing able to help others” “Equity is a core principle to my professional development, and I believe it should be a
stronger one in the region’s economic
development strategies.”
What
qualities,
experience
and
expertise
would you
bring to it?
“Mainly experience
wise I've been
around all types of
people and have had
great experiences
but feel there is more
to do to create an
equal society, for all
of us to enjoy no
matter what
differences we
have.”
“I can provide my
perspectives as a
member of several
protected classes, and
my years of successful
work and community
experience interacting
with diverse groups of
people for the
development of
businesses and
community events.”
“I will be fair and get answers to
questions.”
“I have worked in several organizations in
California and Minnesota advocating for
equity in budgets, government processes, and
outcomes.”
#4..
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Candidate 5. Sanjay Bhan 6. Sid Koka 7. William Bell 8. Jim Stocks District 3 6 5 Not in Modesto. In Denair (Stanislaus County) Occupation Career Technical
Education (C.T.E)
Coordinator
Project Manager EMT Business Owner Shelter Director for the Salvation Army Education Respectively a
bachelor’s degree in
liberal studies and a
master’s degree in
Organizational
Leadership from
Brandman University
Bachelor’s Degree in
Kinesiology
Field Not completed Master’s degree in Conflict Resolution Resident of
Modesto?
Yes Yes Yes No
Registered
Voter?
Yes Yes Yes No
Registered
voter in
Stanislaus
County?
Yes Yes Yes Yes
Have or ever
been a City
of Modesto
employee?
No No No No
Relevant
experience
N/A Founded my employer’s
Cultural Employee
Resource Groups
Integrated DEI aspects
into the hiring process
to make it more
accessible and fairer.

Led numerous
education, post-crisis
and constructive
discussion sessions.

Formation of annual
plan of events and
observations
Field Not completed I’ve worked with marginalized populations my entire life. I worked in refugee resettlement
for 15 years. I was on the City of Turlock and
CSU Stanislaus Joint Taskforce on Diversity
and Inclusion as a taskforce member for two
years. Most recently I was awarded a
Community Award by the LGBTQ+
Collaborative, now the Rainbow Resource
Center, for helping members of the LGBTQ+
community gain equitable shelter at the
Salvation Army, where I am currently the
Shelter Director. I have also been to multiple
DEI trainings with my workplaces.
#4..
- 113 -
Community
Involvement
“Currently, through
my work, we are
working on Dev
Wars (involving and
promoting diversity
for women in tech). I
am an advocate for
students in special
education where I sit
in on IEPs in order to
explain to the
parents there (sic)
rights. Along with
Ceres Karate, we
launched a specials
needs martial arts
class in hope that it
can become an
annual event. “
Participation and
engaging with people at
the numerous cultural
events in downtown
Modesto its
surrounding cities
brings (sic) me immense
joy. Dis de Los Mertos
his past weekend was
the most recent but I’ve
attended the Assyrian
heritage event in
Turlock earlier this
summer. I get involved
by immersing myself in
learning about the
cultures of my
community.

Field Not completed I support the larger Stanislaus Community by going to MAC meetings in the town of Denair
where I live. I’ve offered to be a contact for
any homeless folks who show up in Denair as
there are no resources in Denair for the
housed and homeless. I regularly volunteer
and most recently have signed up for Love
Modesto.

What it is
about this
position that
interests
you?
I am a Modesto
native since birth
and I would love
nothing more than
to be a part of my
citifies (sic) and
counties (sic)
practices, etc.

Having a bi-racial
son, it is imperative
to me that grow up
in a community
where all walks of
life are accepted and
where he visually
see equal
representation.

It would finally allow
me to pour time and
effort into my Modesto
community instead of
just my employer. What
more could you ask for
in a committee member
than someone
inherently full of
genuine drive to help to
help?
Field Not completed For shelters, equity is extremely important and the presence of equity at a shelter makes
it a better and safer place for everyone inside
and outside. Racism isn’t welcome at th e
shelter, discriminating against guests is also
not welcome and we work to support each
and every member of our shelter as they need
and when and where they need. This position
will further make concrete my commitment to
brining equity to the shelter.

What
qualities,
experience
and
I make connections
with all walks of life.

Being raised in
Modesto there are
Skilled and experienced
project management
would easily help us
with planning,
Field Not completed I would bring a perspective of the unhouses with me so equity’s lens can be more accurate
and clearer. I have years of experience of
fighting in the trenches for people and this
#4..
- 114 -
expertise
would you
bring to it?
many avenues I can
reach. Working for
SCOE, there are also
many resources. I
have a passion for
special education
because I believe
that the population
for special needs
gets forgotten in the
inclusion of portion
of DEI.
executing and
evaluating our events.

Sincere empathetic
communication skills
grounded in
compassion. Bountiful
patience. The ability to
support others in being
their best and aiding
them in the ways they
ask and need.
would be another opportunity to do that,
locally, representing a population that is in
dire need of a louder voice, attention and
services.
#4..
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CITY OF MODESTO

COMMITTEE AGENDA REPORT
DATE OF MEETING:

September 28, 2023
Date: September 6, 2023
TO: Appointments Committee
Rosa Escutia-Braaton, Chair
Chris Ricci, Vice Chair
Jeremiah Williams, Member
THROUGH: Joseph P. Lopez, City Manager
FROM: Laurie A. Smith, Director of Parks, Recreation and Neighborhoods SUBJECT: Modesto Youth Commission Appointments
CONTACT: Ashley Weaver, Recreation and Neighborhoods Manager, [email protected], 209-577-5428
DESCRIPTION:

Consider the reappointment of Kayvon Banankhah, Lolamaya Evans, Jossfin Garza, Hamza Modan and Abigail Manzano and appointing four new members to the Modesto Youth Commission for the 2023–2024 school year from October 24, 2023 to June 30, 2024 and forwarding to Council for approval. (Funding Source: Not Applicable) STRATEGIC PLAN ELEMENT:

This item is consistent with the following 2020-2025 Strategic Plan Areas of Focus: Governance and Service Delivery and Economic Vitality.

BACKGROUND:

In June 28, 2020, Council adopted Resolution No. 2022-290, reconvening the Youth Commission. The Youth Commission provides opportunities for Modesto high school students to participate in governmental processes, expand civic participation, and share ideas, recommendations, and youth perspectives. The role of Youth Commission members includes the following:

1. Act in an advisory capacity to the City Council and the City Manager in matters pertaining to youth, and to initiatives, policies and programs impacting the youth in the City of Modesto;

2. Formulate and recommend programs to the City Council relating to the concerns and needs of youth in the City of Modesto;
#5..
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Appointments Committee, September 28, 2023
Modesto Youth Commission Appointment s

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3. Promote engagement from nonprofits, neighborhood associations, and other groups to promote and provide better youth services and increase opportunities for youth engagement in the community;

4. Work with other youth organizations in the City of Modesto and other communities to share ideas and strategies for increased youth engagement;

5. Act in an advisory capacity to other City commissions in matters of youth-related concerns and programs;

6. Receive reports from City staff on ongoing efforts and strategies that have been established by the city related to youth activities, including but not limited to those implemented as solutions to problems encountered by youth; program development or improvement to eliminate gaps in service to youth; programs created or improved to provide access to resources; and programs developed or improved to encourage youth participation and include the unique youth voice.

Section 11021 of the Charter of the City of Modesto authorizes the City Council to appoint members of various Boards and Commissions with the recommendation of the City’s Appointments Committee. The Modesto Youth Commission (Youth Commission) is comprised of nine (9) members who live within the boundaries of the City of Modesto and are enrolled fulltime in high school. Members are appointed for one year (October through June) to coincide with the school year. The City’s standard Board, Commission, and Committee application was supplemented with questions specific to youth interests and experience.

DISCUSSION:

The Youth Commission has nine vacancies, with five former Youth Commissioners requesting reappointment. Vacancies were advertised on social media, the City’s website and by the former Youth Commissioners. Online applications were accepted from August 1 through August 18, 2023. Sixteen applications were received from new applicants that did not participate in the 2022-2023 term.

The 2022-2023 Youth Commission had a successful year reaching out and connecting to the youth of Modesto. Accomplishments included:
 Co-sponsoring a film screening at the State Theater
 Participating in the Annual Youth Summit as panelists  Presenting to middle school students on government policies and opportunities  Participating in a LoveModesto clean up
 Creating a social media campaign.

Five Youth Commissioners from the 2022-2023 term are seeking reappointment to continue serving and building off last year’s momentum and success. Their attendance record is as follows:

Kayvon Banankhah attended 8/8 meetings
Lolamaya Evans attended 6/8 meetings with 2 excused absences #5..
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Jossfin Garza attended 6/8 meetings with 2 excused absences Hamza Modan attended 7/8 meetings with one excused absence Abigail Manzano attended 7/8 meetings with one excused absence The City’s Appointment Committee will review applications and make appointment recommendations for Council’s consideration and approval. Those applicants not appointed to the Youth Commission will be invited and encouraged to attend Youth Commission meetings and participate in any subcommittees and projects established by the Youth Commission. The specifics of these programs will be determined when the Youth Commission initially meets, and City staff will ensure there are continual opportunities to participate for those not appointed.

FISCAL IMPACT:

There is no fiscal impact associated with this item on the Youth Commission’s $5,000 budget for programs and activities.

RECOMMENDED COMMITTEE ACTION:

Staff Recommendations:

Motion recommending the reappointment of Kayvon Banankhah, Lolamaya Evans, Jossfin Garza, Hamza Modan and Abigail Manzano and appointing four new members to the Modesto Youth Commission for the 2023–2024 school year from October 24, 2023 to June 30, 2024 and forwarding to Council for approval.

Approved by:

Laurie A. Smith, Director of Parks, Recreation &
Neighborhoods
Joseph P. Lopez, City Manager
Attachments:

1. YC Bylaws

2. Application Summary

3. Applications
#5..
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Youth Commission Bylaws – Adopted 06/28/2022– Resolution No. 2022-290 Page | 1

YOUTH COMMISSION
BYLAWS
Adopted June 28, 2022 by Resolution No. 2022-290
Article I. Definitions
Section 1.01 There is a Commission created to be known and designates as the Modesto Youth Commission
Section 1.02 As used in these Bylaws, unless a different meaning clearly appears from the context:
(a) “Member” shall mean a member of the Youth Commission. (b) “Youth Commission” and “Commission” shall mean the Youth Commission. (c) “Regular Meeting” shall mean the monthly Commission meetings.

Article II. Mission Statement and Objectives
Section 2.01 Mission Statement:

The mission of the Modesto Youth Commission is to provide Modesto young people from diverse walks of life with the opportunity to participate actively in the governmental process, to provide advice and input on matters impacting youth, and act as liaison between the youth of Modesto and the City Council on matters affecting the quality of life for all youth.

Section 2.02 Vision Statement
To expand civic participation opportunities to diverse youth to share ideas, recommendations, and youth perspective in the development of City of Modesto programs and policies that affect their lives.

To educate youth through guidance and meaningful participation in the processes of civic engagement including the procedures for advocacy, collaboration, communicating the needs of youth, decision-making, leadership, and planning.

Section 2.03 Power and Duty
The Commission has the power and duty to:
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Youth Commission Bylaws – Adopted 06/28/2022– Resolution No. 2022-290 Page | 2 (a) Act in an advisory capacity to the City Council and the City Manager in matters pertaining to youth, and to initiatives, policies and programs impacting the youth in the City of Modesto;
(b) Formulate and recommend programs to the City Council relating to the concerns and needs of youth in the City of Modesto;
(c) Promote engagement from nonprofits, neighborhood associations, and other groups to promote and provide better youth services and increase opportunities for youth engagement in the community;
(d) Work with other youth organizations in the City of Modesto and other communities to share ideas and strategies for increased youth engagement; (e) Act in an advisory capacity to other City commissions in matters of youthrelated concerns and programs; (f) Receive reports from City staff on ongoing efforts and strategies that have been established by the city related to youth activities, including but not limited to those implemented as solutions to problems encountered by youth; program development or improvement to eliminate gaps in service to youth; programs created or improved to provide access to resources; programs developed or improved to encourage youth participation and include the unique youth voice;
(g) Work with City staff to promote better youth services and to find solutions to concerns involving youth in the City of Modesto.

Article III. Membership
Section 3.01 The Youth Commission shall consist of nine (9) qualified persons, comprised of the following:

Seat Designation Term
Chairperson One year, voted by simple majority of
commission.

Vice Chairperson One year, voted by simple majority of
commission.

Commissioners One year, appointed by City Council.

Section 3.02 Youth Commissioners must:
(a) Live within the boundaries of the City of Modesto.
(b) Be a full-time student enrolled in high school.
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Youth Commission Bylaws – Adopted 06/28/2022– Resolution No. 2022-290 Page | 3 Section 3.03 No Member of the Commission shall be an employee of the City, nor of any bargaining unit for employees of the City, nor a person who receives compensation from the City.

Section 3.04 All appointments to the Commission shall be recommended by the City’s Appointments Committee and approved by the City Council.

Section 3.05 No Member of the Commission shall be a relative, by blood or marriage within the third degree of the Mayor, a Councilmember, a Charter Officer, or any Department Director or Deputy Department Director.

Article IV. Terms of Office
Section 4.01 Members may serve no more than four (4) consecutive terms.

Section 4.02 A full term is one (1) year in duration.

Section 4.03 A partial term of one (1) year shall be considered a full term for purposes of Section 4.01.

Section 4.04 Full term appointments begin on October 1 and expire on June 30.

Section 4.05 Members not eligible for reappointment may continue to serve until their successors are appointed. No member shall serve more than four (4) consecutive years, with the exception of those who are serving until their successors are appointed.

Section 4.06 The Members of the Commission shall receive no compensation for the performance of their official duties.

Section 4.07 Appointments to fill vacancies on the Commission shall be handled in the same manner as the original appointments. When a vacancy occurs during a term, the appointment to fill such vacancy shall be for the unexpired portion of the term.

Section 4.08 Members of the Commission may be removed by a majority vote of the City Council after a recommendation by the Commission Chairperson for the following reasons:
(a) Misconduct, inefficiency, or willful neglect in the performance of their duties providing the Member is first provided in writing the reasons for such removal and gives the Member the opportunity to be heard before the City Council in their own defense.
(b) Refusal to resign from the Commission when no longer a resident of the City or when a conflict of interest exists.
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Youth Commission Bylaws – Adopted 06/28/2022– Resolution No. 2022-290 Page | 4 Article V. Attendance at Meetings
Section 5.01 It shall be the responsibility of each Member to know the dates and times of all Commission Meetings. If a Members knows they will not be able to attend a regularly scheduled meeting, it shall be his or her responsibility to notify the Commission Secretary at least forty-eight (48) hours before the meeting, in order for the absence to be recorded as an excused absence.

Section 5.02 The minutes of each meeting will list those Members in attendance, those who are excused, and those who are unexcused.

Section 5.03 Attendance at meetings is expected and necessary to carry out the mission of the Commission. Three (3) or more unexcused absences are grounds for the removal from the Commission by the City Council.

Article VI. Officers and Their Duties
Section 6.01 Officers shall consist of Chair and Vice-Chair elected by a simple majority vote of Members of the Commission. Officers shall serve a one-year term.

Section 6.02 All officers shall exercise all privileges of membership, including the making of motions, seconding, and debate.

Section 6.03 The Chair shall preside at all meetings, shall appoint all ad hoc committees, and shall ensure that the bylaws, rules, and regulations as adopted by the Commission are properly enforced.

Section 6.04 The Vice-Chair shall assist the Chair in his/her duties and in the absence of the Chair shall perform all duties usually performed by the Chair.

Section 6.05 The Commission Secretary shall be a City staff member, appointed by the department head, to serve as Secretary. The Commission Secretary shall keep a record of the minutes of all Commission meetings and such other duties as are usually performed by a secretary.

Article VII. Meetings
Section 7.01 Special meetings shall be called by the Chair as necessary.

Section 7.02 Notices of all meetings, including agendas, shall be given to all Members of the Commission, to the City Clerk, to the City Manager, and to all others as provided by law. All such notices shall be furnished to the Commission in writing at least seventy-two (72) hours prior to the time of such meeting.

Section 7.03 All meeting agendas will be posted at Tenth Street Plaza. #5..
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Youth Commission Bylaws – Adopted 06/28/2022– Resolution No. 2022-290 Page | 5 Section 7.04 All meetings shall comply with the requirements of the Ralph M. Brown Act.

Section 7.05 A quorum is necessary for the Commission to transact any business. A quorum shall be defined as a simple majority of active Commission Members, which is one-half of the active members plus one.

Section 7.06 All meetings of the Commission shall be open to the public and shall be held at a public facility, which is accessible in accordance with the regulations of the Americans with Disabilities Act.

Article VIII. Order of Proceedings
Section 8.01 Roberts Rules of Order shall be the guide for the parliamentary procedures in the conduct of Commission meetings.

Section 8.02 The order of proceedings of all meetings shall be as follows, subject to majority vote of the Members present:
(a) Roll Call
(b) Declaration of Conflict of Interest
(c) Public Comment Period
(d) Consent Items
(e) Old Business
(f) New Business
(g) Commission Comments and Reports
(h) Matters Too Late for the Agenda
(i) Adjournment
Section 8.03 Members of the public shall not speak unless recognized by the Chair and shall state his/her name before making any statement, which shall become part of the public record. The Chair may remove any person who refuses to follow these rules or the decision of the Chair.

Article IX. Amendments
Section 9.01 The Bylaws and any future amendments shall be subject to the final approval of the City Council and shall not and are not intended to go beyond any of the powers and duties given to the Commission by the City Council. 5078505.1
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2023 - 2024 Youth Commission
Application Summary Matrix
Compiled by Parks, Recreation and Neighborhoods Department #5..
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1 2 3
Applicant Kayvon Banankhah Lolamaya Evans Jossfin Garza School Modesto High School Modesto High School Gregori High School Grade Sophmore Senior Sophmore
Criteria Meets all requirements to serve on Youth Commission Meets all requirements to serve on Youth Commission Meets all requirements to serve on Youth Commission Relevant
Employment,
Training, Etc.

I have served on the School Site Council, helping to manage funds and direct our school's efforts to the ares most impactful to kids. Currently, I serve on the Modesto City Schools LCAP committee, with a similar role on a much larger scale and also provide input on fellow youth goals and potential solutions. Being active in student leadership at my school connects me to the student body and their struggles.

I am trained in stage makeup, light design, certified in areal theater • youth commission 2022-2023, • speech and debate team •mock trial team, •Parks Youth Committee of Tuolumne River Trust •Model UN
Community &
Civic
Involvement &
Activities
Currently, I am involved in my school districts LCAP committee, and I'd say that I'm most involved in the community within my schools leadership program. We make efforts to reach towards those around us, hear their voices, and use them to inform our decision making,
I've been in the Modesto City Youth Commission. In that I have done school visits teaching children about the local city government. I also helped out with the Love Modesto Hope Blooms Project. I have performed multiple times for different backpack drives and city celebrations. Lastly I volunteered for the What A Drag, drag show.

From volunteering at Love Modesto to being apart of the youth commission last year, my passion for Modesto and being able to help it grew strong. The Youth Commission opened me up to so many more opportunities to help my community and led me to finding another youth committee that worked on helping better Modesto( Parks Youth Committee).

What interests
you in the
position?
This position not only interests, but excites me, because of the potential impact that it would allow me and fellows youths to have on others in the community. The ability to bring often overlooked voices to the table and make them heard is not something that I take for granted, and if given the chance to serve, I'd make every effort to hear all input and opinions in order properly support and represent the youth in our community.

Over the past year I saw what was possible to do through the youth commission.

Although we didn't complete as many things as I believe we hoped for, I think that this position has the capacity to do a lot. I was one of the students who went to the schools to talk to kids and it was super cool to see how interested they were and how they reacted to different information. I would love to continue on this commission to continue to learn and try to help the community.

Last year, I walked into the position of a youth commission not certain with my involvement in the city and who I was to my hometown. During my youth commission journey last year I attended every event we organized besides 1 parade. At these events, my faith in humanity was restored when I saw what good people did to help each other and their homes. The Youth Commission inspired me to be a better person than I was before. I can only hope that I will be able to impact my community the same amount the youth commission has forever impacted me.

Qualities,
Experience &
Expertise
For some time now, I have been involved in my school district's community LCAP committee. For me, the ability to represent my youth has been a gift, and I've always treated it as such. Even though I am often the youngest person in the room, full of parents and teachers, I have made it a commitment to stand for youth voice and the issues that effect us most. I fully intended to do the same on the youth commission, being an outspoken advocate for those youth who need it most.

I bring a lot of creativity and outside opinions and perspective. I am very connected to my school and community, which continues to make me more conscious of how decisions affect the community. I am very good at event planning, and publicity.

Within being a past youth commissioner, I found leadership in myself in my time away from the commission. I started working on the Parks Youth Committee and found leadership positions to take a chance on. I would not only bring past experience with the youth commission but also I would be happy to lead something that changed me so much. Not only that but I would continue attending every single Youth Commission event.

Why do you
want to serve?
I want to continue serving on the Modesto Youth Commission to advocate for young people in our city by representing youth and advising city council and city government and advocating for solutions to problems young people face. The top 3 issues I want to advocate are: 1. Spreading Financial Literacy: Help underprivileged groups break out of generational poverty by creating and leading initiatives that teach the basics of personal finance. 2. Expanding Upon and Creating New Recreational Opportunities for Young People: Recreational activities are a great opportunity for students to foster new interpersonal relationships, to learn something new, and to keep productive, as opposed to wasting time on their phone or committing petty crimes. 3. Broadening access to mental health resources: Poor mental health has been an extremely prevalent issue for many young people, especially after the pandemic. Offering counseling services and resources to young people who need it most can help mitigate this issue. As a commissioner, I would work with fellow commissioners to find areas of agreement while planning out our collective goals. All in all, it was an honor to serve on the Youth Commission last year, and I’m excited at the chance to serve again! **
I am very passionate about community service and helping others, especially people in lower socio-econimic areas who may not have exposure to the same things other children have. If its a female in a leadership role, a person of color in a leadership role, or just someone who understands the struggle of feeling unseen. I feel that this gives me the opportunity to create lasting change in my community.

Being a member of the 2022-2023 Youth Commission changed me for the better. It awakened a new passion for my community and helped me learn different ways I could leave a mark on the place that raised me. I recall leaving the youth summit the youth commission attended last year with the biggest smile on my face seeing the good people had done for humanity. The youth commission has done wonders for me and so this year I must do wonders for it back.
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1 2 3
Primary Issues
Impacting Youth
in Community
The primary issues impacting youth in our community are the lack of financial education and action on mental health. Many young people, particularly those in underprivileged communities, lack basic financial knowledge and skills, and suffer later in life because of poor money management. What's worse is that many are unaware that there are better ways to handle their finances, chiefly because financial education is largely not present or just optional. Secondly, a lack of knowledge and action about mental health in our community is plaguing our youth. Coming out of two years of isolation, many youth still face mental health challenges like stress or anxiety, and don't have the knowledge or access to resources for help.

I feel like there is a lack of overall representation and exposure. Having stronger connections to leaders of color will help the community immensely. I think that the majority of youth do not know what or who is available to help them.

Modesto isn’t perfect, no city is however, as a youth commissioner I would want to bring more acknowledgement to the lack of community involvement and proper education resources. I would want to shine a light on not only providing more resources for teens to have but also having teens be a resource in their own community.

Skills & Talents I've always been passionate about helping those who aren't heard and speaking for those unspoken for. As someone who used to be extremely shy, I know what it feels like when you aren't heard. I also know how important it is to make sure those who can't speak for themselves have advocates that can advance their needs. Thus, I will continue applying this passion and bringing a strong work ethic to this committee, just as I have last year when I served and helped plan out youth commission involvement in events such as Love Modesto and the Stanco YEA Summit. I plan to put in extra time and sit in on other committees, like the LCAP committee of Modesto City Schools or City Council meetings, to fully inform and enrich my decisions. Additionally, I'll draw on my previous experiences on the commission to help guide me. I've been a little bit of a finance nerd my whole life, so I'll use my knowledge and experience from teaching my peers financial literacy at the Finance Club I created at my middle school and apply it to a broader scale.

I think I would bring a lot of different ideas to the commission because of the different things that I do. I feel like I would get alot of people to join our events or activities. I am very good with kids and have little sisters to see what's relevant even on an elementary school level. And I would bring a very good energy to the room, and am good at keeping people engaged.

With a passion for reading, writing, leadership, and public speaking, I would be able to bring these skills, past experience in the youth commission, and a new found skill in data collection from the Parks Youth Committee.

Clubs & Extra
Curriculars
I'm currently involved in Speech and Debate, MCS LCAP Committee, Teaching Finance at the Modesto Library, Waterpolo, and ASB Leadership.

I am captain of the modesto high cheer team, softball team, track team, performing arts academy representative, I’ve been on multiple school event planning committees.

I run multiple social media accounts for the school. I am currently 1st vice president for the Central Region for the United Black Student Union of California (UBSUC), as well as Sargent of Arms for the UBSUC.

I am involved in Speech and Debate, Mock trial, Model UN, Parks Youth Commitee, and some smaller school clubs.

Activity Hrs 10+ hours 18+ hours 5+ hours
Role
Prioritization
To me, this role is so much more than just a title or something to put on a resume.

Growing up in Modesto, I've seen what we do well as a community, and what we can improve upon. My passion is to help students feel heard and bring their voice out into any decision I'd make. Thus, if a scheduling conflict came about or I had plans on the same day as a Youth Commission meeting, I'd delay them and prioritize the meeting. **
I will continue to delegate my time, stay on top of my work, commitments, and utilize my resources.

Within being a youth commissioner last year, I worked my schedule around it so it could fit perfectly. It is beyond safe to say that Youth Commission has and always will be a top priority to me.

Free Time
Activities
My go-to hobby is playing guitar. I also go out with my camera and take pictures.

Additionally, Scrabble games with my sister are a long-standing tradition, and the fierce debate on whether words like zoot-suit actually exist are oddly comforting (don't tell her, but I'll miss her when she goes to college). ** In my free time I enjoy taking care of myself. I love doing mat pilates or taking classes.

I also really like reading and studying different subjects like ancient religions, genetics, or fungi. I like being creative and making things through different mediums like fiber art, acrylic, watercolor, sculpture, etc.

I enjoy reading, writing, playing guitar, cooking, spending time with loved ones and friends, helping my community, connecting with members of my community, and listening to music in my free time.

YC History 22-23 Culture Commissioner: Attended all 8 meetings 22-23 Culture Commissioner: Attended 6/8 meetings, no unexcused absences 22-23 Culture Commissioner: Attended 6/8 meetings, no unexcused absences ** edited due to space constraints. Full text on application #5..
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Applicant
School
Grade
Criteria
Relevant
Employment,
Training, Etc.

Community &
Civic
Involvement &
Activities
What interests
you in the
position?
Qualities,
Experience &
Expertise
Why do you
want to serve?
4 5 1
Abigail Manzano Hamza Modan Laila Ali
Modesto High School Enochs Gregori High School
Senior Junior Senior
Meets all requirements to serve on Youth Commission Meets all requirements to serve on Youth Commission; sibling also applied Meets all requirements to serve on Youth Commission As I am still a full-time student in high school, I do not have much formal work experience, however I regularly volunteer at the Red Cross and Love Modesto events.

I also have a Sustainability Leadership certification and plan park and river clean-ups throughout the year to serve our community.

I am greatly involved in my school's community as I am the president of the Environmental Club, the Senior Class Representative and participate in many different clubs on campus. I also volunteer my time at the American Red Cross and attend the Cal Center Green Focus program.

Memorial Medical Health Center, Sutter Health; NAMI Alliance Club Treasurer at Enochs; Partnered with other volunteer groups to organize food drives; Neurodiversity Training by the Stanford Neurodiversity Project and assisted neurodiverse; Jessica’s House group director position, requiring empathy and stability when discussing the loss of a loved one **
I have interned for Modesto's District Attorney Office, and have been able to help create trial binders, view/analyze evidence, and shadow attorneys, all while learning more about the criminal justice system. I have also attended meetings of the Modesto Rotary Club. This year, I am a member of Leadership Academy, and I will gain the opportunity to learn more about community events and activities. I am also a volunteer for the nonprofit Vote Me, where we provide research to the general public on candidates running for office. I raise awareness for this nonprofit, and bring attention to the important research and events they host.

The Youth Commission interests me because it is the best way for the youth in our community to have a voice in what decisions are made. I am very interested in the idea of working with a small group of individuals from across the city and from different high schools, so that I can hear and voice their opinions and thoughts about Modesto and expand my own. I believe that through this Commission I will be able to assist in enacting real change and inspiring the youth to become more involved in our community.

I truly believe that there is no other experience that can so effectively and efficiently convey student voices across the city. I want to contribute to the youth of the city as I understand and survey my peers and what they struggle with. Furthermore, this is a way to justify the presence I have in volunteering and civic participation. I would like to be able to connect with the community directly, and then return the lessons that I have learned to City Government as a Commission and hopefully, Chair.

I am interested in this position because I want to advocate for the youth of Modesto. I would love the opportunity to listen to the voices of Modesto's youth, and act on those voices. I am interested in the chance to lead to kickstart initiatives that will help our youth and make a real difference in our community.

I believe that I can bring my organization and public speaking to this Commission, as I am able to handle the logistics of outreach and volunteer events that we launch to the public. I will be able to organize different jobs for each commissioner and help come up with new ideas for what the Commission will focus on for the term. Furthermore, I believe that I can use my public speaking skills to effectively communicate with other commissioners and speak with the youth of our city during outreach events. I can also effectively speak to the City Council when doing our term review presentation and voice not only my opinions and ideas but the city's youth. Lastly, I will be able to bring my own experiences as a former Youth Commissioner from the last term, to this next term if appointed as I am familiar with how the Commission is run and led and can propose new ideas that were not able to executed last term, in order to help the Commission have a running start.

A motif in my life up to this point has been the importance of experience and learning, and I would bring the experience and learning that I have acquired from hundreds of hours of volunteering with patients, interacting with people who are hurt, and designing solutions for individuals who need accommodations, but do not know how or what to receive. I would love to become a leader of the Youth Commission as I believe that by attaining the Chair Position, I can reflect my ideas back efficiently and effectively through communication. I would bring compassion and consistency, perseverance and politeness, and initiative and dedication across all assignments.

Furthermore, a highly powerful quality that I treasure and concentrate my attention on is honesty. Relations are built in trust and I excel in situations where trust is involved.

I will bring my public speaking and listening abilities to this position. Through the program Girls State, I have gained the opportunities to learn about the issues impacting youth and communities from across California. I honed my listening abilities, to truly hear about the issues that mattered to people. Later, when I was selected as one of the 2 senators representing California at Girls Nation, I was able to discuss the issues impacting Californian communities and hear about the issues affecting other states. Through Girls Nation, I honed my ability to speak calmly and passionately by the current events and issues impacting our nation. I will use both my public speaking and listening abilities to this role on the Commission.

After serving as a commissioner on the Youth Commission last year, I learned an abundance of information about my community and the issues facing our youth which is why I would love to continue to serve and make a difference. I want to continue to expand the Youth Commission and work to implement more volunteer and outreach events to get the word out about what the Youth Commission does and inspire other youth to become more involved in their community. I also want to be able to represent the youth in Modesto and listen to what they have to say about our city and their opinions about what policies or events they want to see implemented. I hope that by serving on this Commission I am able to be a voice for the youth and help address their opinions and issues to make Modesto a place to come back to.

Having previously served on the Youth Commission, I was able to form so many connections and make tangible changes throughout City Government. I realized that it was my passion to lead, delegate, and hold responsibility throughout our esteemed group. As a result, I strived not to miss any event in which I could make a difference.

The StanYEA Youth Summit was one of these opportunities; the Love Modesto Project was another; the opportunity to go to schools and teach children about our government was another; and walking the Banner of the Christmas Lights Parade in winter under the battering rain was one of the best moments in my life. Alongside the initiative and leadership component, I truly believe that this is an extraordinarily significant opportunity to help others throughout the city. As a compassionate individual with a diverse and consistent involvement across the community, I constantly strive to interact with new people. I find that with every smile I send, dozens of smiles reverberate back to me during each class.

I want to serve on the Youth Commission because I would love to run for public office one day, as a County Supervisor or a California legislator. Public office is my main goal for my future, and the Youth Commission will allow me a glimpse into what my future may look like. I am passionate about representing the needs of Modesto's youth, and I would love the opportunity to utilize my experience and skills to improve the Modesto community.
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1 Primary Issues
Impacting Youth
in Community
Skills & Talents
Clubs & Extra
Curriculars
Activity Hrs
Role
Prioritization
Free Time
Activities
YC History
4 5 1
The primary issues impacting the youth in our community is a lack of mental health support and information about our community. Many kids my age suffer from mental health issues as they feel isolated and unheard, with barely any resources to help and support them. I want to implement more resources and events targeting mental health support and help uplift the youth of Modesto. Many of the people my age have no idea how the City Council works or how many opportunities and events this city has to offer, causing them to want to leave and find a home somewhere else. I hope that through my role as a Youth Commissioner, I can work to implement more initiatives to connect the youth to this city so that they can become strong leaders and help this city grow. **
Across all my classes, I see anxiety overpowering each student, to the point that they become desensitized to the world. There is also a lack of effort made to accommodate minorities such as the neurodiverse. Parks can hardly accommodate neurodiverse individuals, and school classrooms have few accommodations prepared to help individuals with autism, ADHD, or dyslexia, as well as other physical disabilities. With that in mind, I have set out to establish connections between myself and the respective authorities on these matters. I am excited to bring this experience and leadership to the Youth Commission! **
Youth are uninvolved in the election process, do not research candidates nor participate in public discourse about current events and issues. I believe the youth hold an important voice in our election system.Through the nonprofit Vote Me, I encourage youth to research candidates for public office. I want to host community events where we can encourage civil discourse including political discussions about issues and ideas, register to vote, and be educated on candidate platforms. I am kickstarting a voting registration plan at Gregori, and I would love to move this plan to a larger scale. One of my main goals on the Youth Commission would be to increase civil engagement with the youth of our community. **
I believe that communication, collaboration and initiative are very important skills that I can bring to this Commission. If I am appointed to this role, I will communicate not only with my fellow commissioners about important ideas in our meetings but with the youth in our community. I am able to clearly communicate with people my own age and I will be able to gain their opinions and thoughts about what needs to be changed and improved in the City of Modesto which I can bring up during my term. I can also collaborate with others, such as the other commissioners, to make sure that we are making the right decisions to help our city's youth and we are the most effective with our term. Lastly, I believe that I can truly show initiative in this position if chosen, making sure to voice my opinions and ideas for new outreach ideas and activities.

As the captain of my High School Speech and Debate team, I love expressing my concerns in any way possible, most often verbally. I will bring the capacity to connect, network, and communicate on behalf of the commission in order to execute my role effectively. As an example, new volunteers at the Memorial Medical Center are typically referred to me when they begin their orientation. The trust my manager places in me and my communication skills is a trust that I uphold, as well as continue to demonstrate.

I endeavor to participate with not only consistency but also quality. With each task, I remind myself of the high standards I hold myself to. Furthermore, I will bring the skill of creativity and dedication to each assignment.

I will bring decisiveness, initiative, passion, and strong communication skills to this role. As someone who created both an Asian American Association and a Speech and Debate team at my school, I have demonstrated that I take initiative to improve my community. When I saw a gap in the cultural diversity at Gregori, I created plans to host a Culture Day this September. When I realized other Modesto City Schools had a Debate club, when Gregori did not, I created one, ensuring that Gregori students can gain the valuable opportunities they deserve. I made sure we attended competitions and practices, to hone our student's speech skills. To lead both of these clubs, and organize events, I had to be decisive in scheduling meetings and events, I had to communicate with members and teacher advisors. I will bring this same passion, decisiveness and initiative to this role on the Youth Commision.

I am currently president of both the Modesto High School Environmental Club and Women Empowerment Club and serve as the Senior Class Representative while being a part of the ASB Leadership class. In addition, I participate in Mock Trial, Science Olympiad, the National Alliance on Mental Health club and the Leadership Academy. I also volunteer at the Red Cross regularly and during the spring, I am part of the Modesto High School Varsity Swim team.

In terms of community involvement, I am a volunteer at the Memorial Medical Center and an Intern at the Sutter Health Clinic at 600 Coffee. I also serve as a group director for Jessica’s House, a non-profit organization intended to provide support systems to families who have lost loved ones and close ones. In addition, I am the treasurer of the NAMI Mental Health Alliance Club at Enochs High School. My passion for mental health increased when I took the Stanford Neurodiversity Project Course. During this two-week interactive workshop, professors and doctors demonstrated methods of design that were intended to provide accommodations to the neurodiverse. In terms of academic exploration, I am the captain of my school’s Science Olympiad team, paving the way for students to excel in their respective events. I am also the vice-captain of the Speech and Debate team of my high school.

Finally, in terms of recreation, I am the starting right back for my soccer team. I find that I can make tangible contributions to the soccer pitch while preserving my health. It is truly one of my most exciting past times.

I am involved in Speech and Debate as well as Asian American Association. I also intern for the mayor once or twice a week.
7+ hours 20+ hours 10+ hours
I will make sure to place the Youth Commission as my top priority and manage my time so that I can properly focus on both this Commission and my other responsibilities.

As I dabble in civic exercises across the county, I have curated a sense of punctuality.

I am willing to demonstrate my time management thoroughly throughout my yearly tenure. It is my strong conviction that community service is a role of integrity. I uphold this and consequently prioritize my assignments in the role first. To reiterate, trust is the basis of all my endeavors.

The Youth Commission has only one meeting per month, making it easy for me to dedicate my time to this role. Furthermore, my passion and commitment to representing the youth of Modesto will allow me to prioritize this role above all other commitments.

I enjoy sleeping and going out with my friends to restuarant and events around Modesto. My favorite restaurant is FoodFix and I really enjoy going to the Modesto Farmer's Market and attending DoMo First Fridays. I also enjoy swimming at the beach or in the pool and snowboarding in the winter.

I enjoy both reading and playing soccer. I believe both of these test and accelerate the development of mind and body and actively participate in each of these every day.

In my free time, I enjoy playing violin, reading, and spending time with friends and family. I enjoy attending events with the mayor and staying updated on the community by watching City Council meetings.
22-23 Culture Commissioner: Attended 7/8 meetings, no unexcused absences 22-23 Culture Commissioner: Attended 7/8 meetings, no unexcused absences Did not apply or attend meetings for 22-23 Culture Commission ** edited due to space constraints. Full text on application #5..
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Applicant
School
Grade
Criteria
Relevant
Employment,
Training, Etc.

Community &
Civic
Involvement &
Activities
What interests
you in the
position?
Qualities,
Experience &
Expertise
Why do you
want to serve?
2 3 4
Saida Alvarez Aneel Brar Harman Chahal
Modesto High School Gregori High School Gregori High School Junior Sophmore Senior
Meets all requirements to serve on Youth Commission Meets all requirements to serve on Youth Commission Meets all requirements to serve on Youth Commission blank Student Intern at Stanislaus County District Attorney's Office, delegate for American Legion California Boys and Girls State, and delegate for Asian Pacific Youth Leadership Project.
blank I have a ton of involvement in community activities and civic organization, one of which includes volunteering for hours at one of Modesto's local hospitals, DMC. Here I am a crew leader where I assign specific tasks and runs to people and complete some myself including delivering labs and discharging patients. Additionally, I assist in teaching classes at my local Taekwondo studio where I work with kids, people who are mentally challenged, adults, and all different kinds of people. Furthermore, I tutor kids who can't afford to pay for a tutor all across America, which allows me to bring a positive change in so many poorer neighborhoods.

Volunteer for local non-profit: The Peace Collective/The Peace Fridge, I organized multiple donation drives through this organization to help the underserved and homeless community.

I’m interested in this position because it would allow me to help to improve our community by sharing ideas and collaborating with those around me to keep in mind the what is best for the community.

The ability to make a change in the lives of the youth within my locality means so much to me. From a young age, I have always taken interest in hobbies or extracurricular that include helping people, and being able to do this on such a higher level, would mean everything to me. I would make it my duty to make the greatest positive impact I could on all the youth of Modesto. Additionally, I like collaborating, meaning I feel like I would be a good fit with the team when it comes to brainstorming ideas, putting plans to action, and getting things done. Furthermore, I would be able to act as a voice for the youth, changing people's lives for the better and spreading the voice of those who aren't given the opportunity to speak out.** I am excited to fulfill all the responsibilities and roles that this position entails, however there is one responsibilities listed in the Youth Commission that is particularly invigorating: Responsibilities "a." Responsibility "a" states that commissioners will advise the City Council and City Manager about issues that pertain to youth. This is galvanizing as I have always had an affinity to get involved in politics and government, and being able to introduce pressing issues for youth to our city council will allow me to directly impact our community through this connection with our local elected officials.

I am bring my organization skills and my willingness to work endlessly and hard to be able to make a positive impact during my time on the committee if I get the opportunity to serve. I’m also bring the ability to be vulnerable, which I believe is a vital skill to have being in this position because it allows me to be open minded and open to the community and their needs.

I bring many qualities and expertise to the table. These include collaboration from Waterpolo, team building and leadership from being a leader in Mind Out Loud, a nonprofit under the California Association of Education, and by being a crew leader in a volunteering shift at DMC, advocacy from a non profit where I advocate for youth mental health across the nation with hundreds of people listening to the podcasts I produce, and social skills from having to teach and work with a large variety of people within my karate studio including adults, children under the age of 7, people with developmental disabilities, and those of my age as well. Furthermore, I have great experience in working as a team through volunteering at DMC in which those of us on a shift communicate who does what task, playing waterpolo where communication is necessary on the go, and through "Mind Out Loud," where I work with a team to produce content about teen mental health and have teamed up with many youth organizations.

Over the summer I was an intern at the Stanislaus County District Attorney's Office, and I was able to visualize first-hand how the justice system works through the eyes of "The People of the State of California." I was also able to sympathize with victims of horrific crimes, while simultaneously realizing that at times, there can be two sides to a story. My time with the District Attorney taught me humility and compassion, and ironically, a lot of legal terms that I believe could be useful when delegating with the City Council and other elected officials. Additionally, my experience as a delegate at the California Boys and Girls State and Asian Pacific Youth Leadership Project programs greatly expanded my experience as to how city and county governments work through building a mock city council and meeting elected officials in the State Legislature. I believe my experience in these programs taught me why taking upon selfless leadership positions is important, and that civil discourse is the only way we will progress as a community.

I wanna serve on the Youth Commission in order to gain experience helping the community and to be able to become a better person, learning to help and to be mindful of others.

I believe that there are many problems the youth of our society is facing whether it be be drugs, mental health, or lack of attention to their needs, something must be done.

Already being in an organization called Mind Out Loud, which is partnered with the California Department of Education, in which me and a group of others shine light towards mental health within youth through a podcast with over a hundred listeners, I like to surround myself around supporting the youth of our current and upcoming generations. Through this Modesto Youth Commission, I believe that this organization will best allow me to make a change in the youth of our society, and even better, locally. I believe that there are too many problems to name and being able to work with 8 other determined students to bring change in our communities could make the difference in Modesto's next generation of youth, and something I am excited to be a part of.

I would like to serve on the Youth Commission because I want to increase opportunities and resources for the youth of Modesto. While at programs such as California Boys and Girls State and Asian Pacific Youth Leadership Project, I quickly realized that there was a lack of students attending such programs from the valley, with some even saying "Modesto? Where is that?" This caught my attention as I had realized that a majority of urban Californian students had never thought about the valley as a place where students could thrive, as they had not seen many of them at rigorous educational programs. I would like to serve on the Youth Commission because I want to decrease the gap between the central valley and urban California, and create a plethora of opportunities for students in Modesto, just as they are offered to many students in more urban parts of the state.
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I believe one of the primary issues currently impacting youth in our community is social media. I believe that while social media can be a positive outlet for our youth to express themselves and for us to receive our information, it is also a toxic environment. It is proven to have caused many of the insecurities in our youth and has ruined the social skills of many, which only negatively impacts our community. Without these vital social skills, we cannot have good functioning community, which is why social media is such an issue in today’s community.

The primary issue I see impacting the youth in my community would be drugs, including weed, vapes, etc. I believe almost every kid can agree with this, as even going to the bathroom is a hassle, knowing you must smell the disgusting combination of fumes released from these vapes. Additionally, even when walking through hallways and in close contact with pother students, you can pick up them talking about when to vape in the bathroom stalls and when to leave class to complete this action. I believe that drugs, especially vapes, are quite literally poisoning the youth of Modesto and a change must be brought, whether and institution that teaches them of the risks vapes can pose, or another platform where students can seek help from their addiction.

The primary issues I believe are currently impacting youth in our community are a great disparity in the resources offered to students in rural versus urban California. For example, in the bay area, many schools host standardized testing preparation as well as have dozens of test centers for the SAT and ACT, while the nearest one to students in Modesto is not even in the city, it is in Turlock. I believe we need to expand educational opportunities for students in Modesto. Another issue I believe that is pressing the youth of Modesto is a lack of awareness about politics and civic engagement as compared to the rest of California.

I’m bringing my organization skills, my open minded perspective, and my willingness to do anything the committee needs to help the community.

One of the skills I bring to the Commission include my experience in youth advocacy, as stated before, I am a member of an advocacy group for student mental health, organized by the California Department of Education. Within this group I also learned to work very well as a team, in which together we must come up with creative ideas for podcasts, speak in front of hundreds of viewers, and communicate in getting tasks done and supporting each other. Additionally, I am a great public speaker, meaning I will not be afraid to give presentations or speeches during meetings or events.

Furthermore, I am in a leadership academy organized through my Taekwondo academy in which I learn to be and act like a leader, including the proper way to approach people, assist them, and communicate effectively. On the note of communication, that is another trait I have, as I have learned how to communicate with all types of people, since I volunteer at taekwondo studio where I teach and get to work with kids and adults of lower belt levels, even many with mental disabilities such as autism and more. The final skill I will be mentioning is efficiency, as I strive to complete all tasks before a deadline and in a timely manner, meaning I won't allow the team to fall behind due to my laziness.

I believe I can bring the skills of creativity and innovation the the Commission. This is because as a student, I saw a problem of a lack of political and civic participation among youth in my school, and so I started a club "Teens Engage in Activism" in which we have pre-registered many students to vote, as well as become more aware about issues impacting us locally, at the state, and national level.

I am a part of the Modesto High cross country and track team. I’m also a part of the academic decathlon team.

Other clubs and extracurricular I am involved in, include: Taekwondo, Water Polo, volunteering at a hospital, Future Business Leaders of America, Mock Trial, Project Change, Global Club, Mind Out Loud (Mental Health Organization), and Teens for Press, in which me and a group of other students push for press rights within the youth of our community.

President of Teens Engage in Activism Club
Co-founder and Co-president of Model United Nations
Vice President of Asian American Student Association
Mock Trial
Speech and Debate
Stanislaus County Office of Education Leadership Academy California Scholarship Federation
Project Change Club
Swim
Water Polo
National History Day
10+ hours 20+ hours 20+ hours
I would prioritize my involvement in this role by making sure to always bring forth my best effort and always have the best interest of the committee in mind.

By knowing how high of a status this role is, it would be my upmost responsibility to place this role above other extra curricuar, meaning if there is a conflict of schedule between this role and another event, I would put this event first as making a change in my locality is the most important thing to me.

I have a weekly planner that I utilize to plan out how I much time I will spend on school and extracurriculars, it has been very effective for me to organize my schedule and I will use it to be fully committed to the Youth Commission while balancing school and other extracurriculars.

During my free time, I enjoy reading, running and walking around stores and looking around, preferably around Barnes and Noble.

In my free time I enjoy going on walks, drawing, playing with my dog,playing video games, watching movies with my family, and playing board games, I enjoy reading (The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald and Michelle Obama are some of my favorites), thrifting at local thrift shops, as well as playing Water Polo and Swim.

Did not apply or attend meetings for 22-23 Culture Commission Did not apply or attend meetings for 22-23 Culture Commission Did not apply or attend meetings for 22-23 Culture Commission ** edited due to space constraints. Full text on application #5..
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Applicant
School
Grade
Criteria
Relevant
Employment,
Training, Etc.

Community &
Civic
Involvement &
Activities
What interests
you in the
position?
Qualities,
Experience &
Expertise
Why do you
want to serve?
5 6 7
Armaan Desai Edith Hughes Tad Jimenez
Gregori High School Modesto High School Central Catholic High School Senior Senior Sophmore
Meets all requirements to serve on Youth Commission Meets all requirements to serve on Youth Commission Meets all requirements to serve on Youth Commission Summer Volunteer at District Attorney's Office; No certificates of training, licenses, or professional registration.

Blank blank
Participated in Boys State over the summer, a prestigious civic organization for incoming High school seniors
Accepted into and now a participant of, Stanislaus County Office of Education's Leadership Academy
I participate in local river and park cleanups with the Tuolumne River Trust and my school's environment club, which I am part of. I also have to co-design the Stanislaus Youth Empowerment blue print, which was published in 2021. This project is a stratedgy and sustainability plan to ensure youth empowerment builds momentum, funding, and success.

Most recently, I was a part of high school student-lead project to create goods for the homeless.

I lived right next to Dragoo park for almost 10 years. Growing up, I have come to recognize the value of these spaces not just as places for leisure, but as avenues for community building, environmental stewardship, and even personal development. As a young adult, I feel a responsibility to represent the youth voice in ensuring these spaces cater to the evolving needs of our younger generation. I want to be part of the Youth Commission to advocate for amenities and programs that resonate with my peers, ensuring that they are not only well-maintained but also innovative and in line with the interests of today's youth. I believe that by working collaboratively, we can create parks and programs that are vibrant but inclusively beneficial for all residents, regardless of age. **
Considering I have an interest in creating more opportunities for the youth and want to be more civically engaged in Modesto, this position would be a good way for me to meet more people with similar aspirations and do more for the community.

Being apart of the community
I have taken on many leadership roles including Co-founding, the Model United Nations club, Speech Club and Debate Club along with introducing, educating and implementing a civic program called Boys State. At this civic program, I ran for the highest possible position, and although I fell short in the election, I gained valuable knowledge and first hand experience in politics and leadership of the sort.

Furthermore, I have expertise in researching and am currently working on an academically hefty research paper on the judicial system, while being mentored by a recent Harvard Law School Grad. This experience is teaching me new ways to research everyday. I am the student president of the Modesto Indian Cultural Society, where we have organized multiple large scale events at the Gallo Center, with over 500 people in attendance. This invaluable experience has truly given me a lot of new insight on real, and hefty leadership roles. **
I have past experience volunteering for youth empowerment, and can work with other people well. I love to bounce ideas off of others and try my hardest to make other people feel like their opinions matter and should be considered.

I am interested in Cyber Security. I love to create systems and optimize things that I am apart of.

For about ten years of my life I had lived right next to Dragoo park near the Sylvan area, on Drakeshire Court and I practically grew up there and a major part of my childhood memories reside in that park. Growing up, I have come to recognize the value of these spaces not just as places for leisure, but as avenues for community building, environmental stewardship, and even personal development. As a young adult, I feel a responsibility to represent the youth voice in ensuring these spaces cater to the evolving needs of our younger generation. In a digital age where screen time dominates, it's crucial that our parks and recreational activities offer compelling reasons for young people to engage, stay active, and connect with nature. I want to be part of the Youth Commission to advocate for amenities and programs that resonate with my peers, ensuring that they are not only well-maintained but also innovative and in line with the interests of today's youth. I believe that by working collaboratively, we can create parks and programs that are vibrant but inclusively beneficial for all residents, regardless of age.

I want to serve in the Youth Commission because having the opportunity to be more civically engaged is important. As a young person, I want to be able to learn more about the City of Modesto and become more involved in representing the youth here.

I've always been interested in policy and the well-being of others, so being in this commission will be a door opening to being more civically engaged.

I would like to be more apart of my community and be here to support it. I love systems; and being able to see how a high-functioning council like this would enthrall me. I would also like to take a higher role in my community. #5..
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The Central Valley, including our city, has a concerning prevalence of substance abuse, particularly among young individuals. This often stems from a combination of societal stressors, peer pressure, economic disparity within our community and, at times, limited access to mental health and counseling resources. Many youth grapple with uncertainties about their future prospects, in terms of higher education opportunities, securing stable employment, or just the dream of affordable housing in an escalating market. A strengthened focus on our parks, recreational centers, and diverse community programs is imperative to foster community involvement, physical health, and a sense of belonging. **
I notice that many young people, specifically in Stanislaus County, struggle with their mental health. Almost every person I talk to has has some experiences some form of not feeling worthy or stressed out about anything, ranging from school to family relationships.

Mental Health. Although it's hard to see, so many people and fellow youth are suffering due to the strain on their brain in this growing world. Instagram, TikTok, even high school, are negatively affecting people minds. Instagram makes people compare their lives to others and plants a seed that they don't have worth. Everybody has worth no matter what. TikTok, and by extension, it's short form content creates a dopamine hungry, instant-gratification-denying monster of a brain. It lowers people's critical thinking skills and makes it harder to go through our lives. I doubt there is a way to completely fix it, but if things outside of social media is offered, it will at least help the problem.

I have taken noticeable leadership roles in my high school community, by Cofounding, the Model United Nations club as well as the Speech and Debate club. I have also demonstrated leadership and initiative, by informing our entirely new administration(Principal, Assistant Principal, College Coordinator) about a civic program called Boys State, of which they were not aware, to be advertised at our school to give students the knowledge and opportunity to participate. At this civic program, I ran for the highest possible position, and although I fell short in the election, I gained valuable knowledge and first hand experience in politics and leadership of the sort.

Furthermore, I can bring the my expertise in research to the table if need be. I am currently working on an academically hefty research paper on the judicial system, am being mentored by a recent Harvard Law School Grad. From this experience, I am actively learning new ways to research everyday and can be quite useful in this capacity.

Lastly I am also the student president of Indian Cultural Society, here in Modesto, where we have organized multiple large scale events at the Gallo Center, with over 500 people in attendance. The show was a multicultural dance event/show inclusive of people from all backgrounds. This invaluable experience has truly given me a lot of I am an excellent communicator and team-worker. I work well with others and love to brainstorm/come up with ideas with people. I get along with everyone and can work with anyone, regardless of the task involved.

I am a critical thinker and I love to create systems and optimize things that I am apart of.

Co-Founded the Model United Nations Club at my school, as well as the Speech and Debate Club.
1 of 450 boys in all of California chosen to participate in Boys and Girls State, a prestigious civic program, located in almost every state.

Involved in a intellectually challenging research paper on the judicial system.

Model United Nations delegate with 5+ years of experience, and delegated in numerous invitational world class conferences for High School Students.

Student Body President of the Indian Cultural Society.

I am involved in leadership at my school. My role is the senior class vice president and I am currently leading a new project at my school aimed at making the entire student body feel recognized, which is to celebrate everyone's birthday. I am the captain of the varsity water polo team, and have been playing varsity since my freshman year. I also play violin in the Modesto Symphony Youth Orchestra outside of school.

Boy Scouts
Tech Club
Water Polo
varies 10+ hours 6+ hours
Through proper time management, and diligent organization I plan to stay up to the task of this role if accepted, through prioritizing this commission and my city.

I will make sure that I have plenty of time to work on what needs to be done by working in advance on any other tasks.

This will be the top of my priories. I understand that I will be working with high-up people and I understand that they will expect a lot from me.

I thoroughly enjoy going to the gym as much as possible and boxing in my free time. I enjoy playing fiddle/bluegrass music on my violin, hanging out with my friends, and skiing in the winter.

In all honesty, I love to study and I love to meet new people. . Learning new things and working toward a goal, through studying, makes me happy. Meeting new people has always been an interest of mine. If I could, I would love to meet everyone on planet earth. **
Did not apply or attend meetings for 22-23 Culture Commission Did not apply or attend meetings for 22-23 Culture Commission Did not apply or attend meetings for 22-23 Culture Commission ** edited due to space constraints. Full text on application #5..
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Applicant
School
Grade
Criteria
Relevant
Employment,
Training, Etc.

Community &
Civic
Involvement &
Activities
What interests
you in the
position?
Qualities,
Experience &
Expertise
Why do you
want to serve?
8 9 10
Taylor McGuire Hasan Modan Martin Montez
Davis High School Gregori High School Gregori High School Sophmore Freshman Sophmore
Meets all requirements to serve on Youth Commission Meets all requirements to serve on Youth Commission; sibling also applied Meets all requirements to serve on Youth Commission Blank Blank Member of a local nonprofit youth group; Park Youth Committee, through parent company Tuolumne River Trust
I am currently in Tuolumne River Trust's park youth committee which allows me to reach and connect with my community to help bring the much needed change to local parks, especially parks in West Modesto. I have also been involved in leadership for 6 years, this upcoming school year will be my 7th, which provides me in ways to notice problems in smaller communities and provide my time and skills to help change and fix the problems and issues that I can impact.

I volunteer often including: Love Modesto projects through my local mosque, the Islamic Center of Modesto, Modesto Marathon and the Peace Officer Memorial Run, Riverbank Health Fair and an Asthma convention and Sutter Health Medical Foundation. In junior high I served on PHASTjv, an organization serving to educate youth on the dangers of tobacco and other substance abuse, and volunteered coaching a Science Olympiad team. I was a member of the California Junior Scholarship Federation. All of these experiences have one thing in common, to serve the community, to educate, expose, and empower the communities, and be a voice, especially for the vulnerable youth of the community.** Park Youth Committee : Avid member of the organization, one of which will end on December 15.

I am already involved in the community, but I would like to do more. I want to be able to look back on my high school experience and say I helped to do my part in the community, which would bring me personal joy. From what I have heard and read, this program sounds like an amazing way to help out the youth in Modesto, which is important since they are our future. They are our future doctors, lawyers, artists, and most importantly, leaders.

I realized that I have a passion to serve the community. While I have had the opportunity to volunteer at local school and community level events, I would like to expand it to serve youth across the city. I would like to take my passion to the next level, by serving the community, especially the Youth across the city. I have several projects in mind, such as a tutoring service for vulnerable youth, working on the local food banks, and more importantly, spreading sport opportunities to the vulnerable youth of the community, providing an outlet and support system, away from gangs and other dangers.

The main thing that interests me is the idea of being able to change around you for the better. Modesto has definitely changed who I am as a person, and I hope to do the same to others, displaying the true, bright side of Modesto that I know.

I would bring my experiences and knowledge I have gain from my past community involvement, leadership and the park youth program, along with my abilities I have gained from life. I am a very comfortable in public speaking, allowing me to feel comfortable and in my element at meetings and presentations, along with everyday situations in the world.

I believe my best qualities and perseverance and compassion, and that suits the work of a Youth Commissioner. I believe in working towards my goals and dreams of empowering marginalized youth through expanding educational oppurtunities and planning sport-based events. These are challenging tasks, and require a lot of planning and organizing, and with my perseverance and compassion, and the support of the city council, I am already planning educational oppurtunities, conferences, and events which are events organized by the youth, for the youth.

I would bring my own ideas to the table, as well as taking in others thoughts and opinions, along with what I have learned from Park Youth Committee, on how to get the public excited about the work happening in Modesto, and the aspect to let everyone have a turn to participate, not hogging the floor for myself.

I heard about this program from my friend who was previously on it and was immediately interested. Our youth is our future, and I would love to do anything possible, being a teen myself, to help my peers out. I also want to become more aware of the challenges that not only youth face in Modesto, but also everywhere. By being in the program and hearing and seeing other people's stories, I feel like it will better myself as a human and help my be able to make an impact that I seek to do on the community around me.

My passion for community service started in the third grade, while participating in Love Modesto events. These events made an impression on me that simple community service, by an individual, can have far-fetched impacts on the whole community and its health. This led to my involvement in school-based community service projects. All the activities I have done over the years center around working with the communities.

Serving on the Youth Commission provides a wide platform that reaches beyond just a school level or just my local mosque. I feel it's valuable to give my perspective I want to serve because Modesto is truly a place I call home. I grew up here and have always loved it, but along with this love I have noticed the unpleasant. I want to speak about this issue at places where I can be heard and where they will take into account of what I say. I understand that I am speaking for many more people than just myself, as the public's opinion always matters most, and I feel with my knowledge and first hand experiences of what Modesto it is as a place and a committee, I believe that I can do such.
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8 9 10
Our youth currently is pressured with the problems adults and young adults would normally face, removing them from being able to truly experience their youth. In the long run, this affects their mental health, resulting in them not truly being able to live the comfortable and happy life, also known as the American dream, when they are older. Our youth today shouldn't have to worry, they should be able to enjoy the presence and enjoy their youth. If I am able to help accomplish this even just a little, it would bring me immense amount of joy.

Our mental health crisis is the most challenging post-covid reality for majority of youth in the Stanislaus County. With the lack of parental guidance in vulnerable communities, youth depend on, often dangerous, support systems, and can be trapped into a gang or drug environment. Expanding educational oppurtunities via a robust peer support system, which involves youth who they can look up to for support and encouragement, and rely on for emotional and logistical support, is essential in rebuilding these vulnerable youth populations.

The primary issues I have noticed are drug use and homelessness, which negatively affects the people of Modesto.

I am a great public speaker. Ever since a young age I have participated in public speaking which has not only helped me speak in meetings and presentation, but also in just daily life conversations. I also enjoy working with numbers and technology, allowing me to be able to create and present different forms of media.

My passion to connect with the youth, and understand them, are key elements.

Communication with the youth, and understanding their struggles, is my biggest skill set. I have come across youth who had troubled childhood and difficult households, where they were able to connect with me instantaneously and it helped them open their communication barrier.I have been involved in tutoring at the school levels, which can be used in a community setting.

I will bring forward my ideas and insights on the aspects displayed, as well as providing the specific reasoning of such. Also, being able to listen to others ideas, as well as building off of them, whether in group conversation or out-of-office work.

I am currently involved in Tuolumne River Trust's park youth committee, along with being on my seventh year of leadership, second year of wrestling, and being involved in other school sanctioned clubs like CSF.

I run for my high school cross country team, and volunteer at Sutter Gould Medical Foundation every Wednesday after school. Later in the school year, I will be applying for CSF, the California Scholarship Federation.

I am involved in Mock Trial, Speech and Debate, and Park Youth Committee. 8+ hours 8+ hours 5+ hours
I have gotten more comfortable with prioritizing and managing my time, and since my interest is strong for this program, I would have no trouble dedicating the time needed to this.

Aside from my school schedule, I have a very open schedule most afternoons that will allow me to prioritize my involvement as a Youth Commissioner.

I will by not neglecting my position, as I realize beforehand that this would be a team effort, and that is certainly one of where I should be holding my own weight.

In my free time I love reading. Ever since a young age I have been emerged in reading and it provides a fun escape from my everyday life by connecting and relating to the characters in the books. I am also a huge sports fan. I love watching sports games with my family and love attending them in person even more.

I have a passion for running, and I value spending my time with youth in my community. Cross country gives me a platform to meet new people, from different communities and schools, and communication.

I enjoy playing tennis and piano, rock climbing, watching television, painting/crafting, reading, and being with friends.

Did not apply or attend meetings for 22-23 Culture Commission Did not apply or attend meetings for 22-23 Culture Commission Did not apply or attend meetings for 22-23 Culture Commission ** edited due to space constraints. Full text on application #5..
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Applicant
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Grade
Criteria
Relevant
Employment,
Training, Etc.

Community &
Civic
Involvement &
Activities
What interests
you in the
position?
Qualities,
Experience &
Expertise
Why do you
want to serve?
11 12 13
Akhil Patel Rudra Patel Deen Pierstorff
Enochs High School Modesto High School Beyer High School Sophmore Freshman Freshman
Meets all requirements to serve on Youth Commission Meets all requirements to serve on Youth Commission Meets all requirements to serve on Youth Commission blank blank I am a student who believes in civic engagement and positive change making.

As an elected member of the Park Youth Committee, I help organize and advocate secure funding for projects to protect the Tuolumne River. I work to address the issues families are facing that include their concerns for safety and limited access to parks.

We created surveys to develop a digital storytelling map and synthesize results to identify policy changes. Additionally, I’ve helped facilitate group meetings and lead projects. I also volunteer at community park events over the weekends. My service activities consist of volunteering at the community food kitchen weekly, CrossPoint church. The food kitchen is a non-profit that offers free meals to any person and is open to the public. **
As a student in the City of Modesto, I stay active in community activities and civic organizations as the co-president of the StanCo Volunteer Outreach Organization, also known as The SCOVO. As co-president, I have been in charge of planning community-wide events that involve our youth such as organizing various speaking engagements relating to the importance of staying involved in the community. I also volunteer in my cultural based community, as I am a member of the Central Valley Gujarati Samaj, which hosts a variety of events that help promote cultural awareness.

Through this, I understood the value of each and every volunteer working to make an impact on their community.

As long as I can remember my family has been a part of many activities, such as participating in Love Modesto, Walk a Mile in Her Shoes for Haven Women's Center, the State Theater fundraising. I also help with events and organizations that my parents host and are a part of such as Mod Shop, Modesto Porchfest, The ILL List Poetry Slam, Battle of the Bands and the Stanislaus County Commission for Women.

I would like the chance to actively contribute to the growth and development of Modesto. I am passionate about making a positive impact on our city, particularly in increasing entertainment for the youth and mental health support. Serving on the Park Youth Committee allowed me to understand the importance of community engagement, teamwork, and effective communication. I have witnessed firsthand the positive outcomes that can be achieved when young people actively participate in decision-making processes. I listen to the voices of my peers, understand their perspectives, and work collaboratively to address their needs. Being a commissioner would allow me to actively participate in shaping policies and initiatives that directly affect our community's youth. **
A position on the Youth Commission interests me because I want to be involved with like-minded teenagers who care about matters pertaining to initiatives, policies, and programs impacting the youth of the City of Modesto. The main objective for the Youth Commission is to give leaders with diverse life experiences, the opportunity to actively participate in a variety of activities on matters affecting the quality of life for all youth.

The youth commission also gives valuable experience of what it is like to take part in government processes and shines light onto resourceful characteristics such as advocacy, collaboration, communicating the needs of the youth, decision making, leadership, and planning.

I'm curious about civic engagement and what it takes to be a part of the community council that can make positive change. I would like to use my voice to help the city that I love so much.

My experience on the Park Youth Committee taught me how to listen intently, understanding different viewpoints, and fostering an environment where everyone feels valued. This experience has also given me insights into the specific needs and concerns of our youth, allowing me to represent their interests. I am adept at gathering and interpreting data to inform decision-making. I believe that a data-informed approach, combined with community input, is the key to making meaningful and sustainable changes that will positively affect our city. Additionally, I research projects that happened last year and I am aware of the bylaws and expectations as a commissioner. I’ve attended and am comfortable in a city council meeting setting. My combination of creativity, community engagement experience, and data-driven expertise will enable me to driving positive change for the youth and the entire community. **
At a young age, being involved on sports teams ranging from basketball to baseball to soccer, my coaches always informed me that I was a leader and example for other children around me. They let me know that I could help my peers grow in the skills they lack and become better people overall. That is the job of a leader, to lead by example and help those around us grow. As time grew on, we learned how to work as a team to tackle obstacles in our path. Similar to the Youth Commission, we are just a group of leaders working together to tackle the main issues in our youth to bring prosperity to our community. Not only have I helped others grow in the qualities they aspired to achieve, but I have also grown as a student, human, and leader. It is important to show compassion to other people as well as your community I have been a part of student council since elementary school into junior high and hope to also continue on that path into high school. I enjoy public speaking. I'm grateful to have been able to observe my parents in their leadership roles in this community for example my dad who is the President of The State Theater and my mom is the Vice President of the Commission for Women, and through that I have helped with their duties when I'm needed. I really like to play Pickelball and think it would be neat to start a a Youth Pickleball League. It would be a great activity that is healthy and fun.

I would like to serve on the youth commission because I would like to make myself more active and responsible in local city government. I'm interested in learning more about Modesto and what it has to offer for the youth. I think more kids should be educated and aware about activities, such as the ones outlined from the Parks and Recreation magazines. I am passionate about helping students like me and learning more about their needs.

I would like to serve on the Youth Commission because it is rare for young individuals to have the chance to use their voice and propel initatives to make change in their community. This opportunity demonstrates how much the youth can provide for their city and how capable they are of being leaders. Serving on the Youth Commission would allow me the privilege to help our city's youth change for the better. From my experience around other students and young adults in the City of Modesto, I have seen a variety of behaviors and issues arising, such as cultural insensitivity, peer pressure, and lack of involvement in civic engagement. As a Youth Commissioner, I would make it a priority to bring awareness to these diverse issues, and collaborate with my peers on ways the Commission can gauge a larger youth involvement to ensure the support we provide as an advisory board is meaningful and can bring about positive change.

My sister, Ameena Pierstorff was a former Youth Commissioner and she recommended for me to get involved. She has shared with me the positive change that this commission can offer our community and I'm excited to be a part of that change.
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11 12 13
Currently, I see artificial intelligence and its involvement within education as a huge challenge. I wonder how it will be utilized in schools and I'm interested in exploring that. Additionally, I would like to a be a part of increasing mental health advocacy as I believe that there is a huge need for that especially with the youth.

One of the largest issues I see impacting the youth in our community is bullying and mental health. Though we are just children, many factors in our lives wreak havoc onto adolescents minds. This, thus, results in many teens facing all time lows with their mental and physical health, and the need to express their anger and feelings onto their peers. Another leading factor impacting youth in our community is the lack of involvement in local civic organizations. Social media and technology has taken a toll on many young adults minds, resulting in an unmotivated work effort. As young adults, we need to become more interconnected with one another and learn to care about our community, so that our city can thrive and relax knowing it is placed into the hands of responsible, youthful, leaders.

I think that young people are turning to drugs and alcohol for entertainment, and it can have scary consequences. I also see that there is a lack of free opportunities for health and fitness activities for teens.

My experience as an active member of the Park Youth Committee has honed my ability to work collaboratively and effectively. I have learned how to listen intently, understanding different viewpoints, and fostering an environment where everyone feels valued. This experience has also given me insights into the specific needs and concerns of our youth, allowing me to represent their interests. In terms of expertise, my background in data analysis from the Park Youth Committee, provides a unique advantage. I am adept at gathering and interpreting data to inform decision-making.

This skill can be instrumental in assessing the impact of various policies and initiatives we undertake as a commission. I believe that a data-informed approach, combined with community input, is the key to making meaningful and sustainable changes that will positively affect our city. Additionally, I have done some research on projects that happened last year and I am aware of the bylaws and expectations as a commissioner. I’ve been to a city council meeting as well and I am comfortable in the setting. My combination of creativity, community engagement experience, and datadriven expertise is what I bring to this role, and I am eager to channel these qualities into driving positive change for the youth and the entire community.

As many different leaders establish various programs and measures throughout the city of Modesto, I understand the impact the Commission has in ensuring the youth is accounted for and not left behind. Through my communication skills, I hope to engage the youth across the city to gauge their perspective and share their voices when advising on initiatives and policies. In addition, I hope to use my open mindset and hard work ethic to collaborate with the other youth commissioners to discuss the issues that continue to impact our city, and bring awareness to what the Modesto City has to offer and create change.

I love health and fitness and cooking. I would be able to support tips and fitness training for young people. I can try to help support activities at The State Theater for young people. Movie nights, club events, things like that.

My other extracurricular and club activities that I'm involved in include varsity tennis, cross country, science olympiad and math olympiad. I am also a student advisory member for the Park Youth Committee.

I am co-president of the non-profit organization,SCOVO, or the StanCo Volunteer Outreach Organization, that serves to help the community in a positive way by contributing our time and resources to different parts of Stanislaus County. My experience in SCOVO will enable me to utilize my organization and coordinating skills to prepare for outreach events and initiatives that are discussed on the council. In addition to SCOVO, I hope to become involved in clubs such as Mock Trial, Speech and Debate, and Model United Nations. I'm also involved in sports, such as basketball, baseball, and track.

At the moment I'm not a part of any clubs. I hope to find out more about opportunities at my new school when school starts. I'm interested in Speech & Debate and Mock Trial.
6+ hours 7+ hours 3+ hours
I will ensure to be very organized when when youth committee meetings are occurring.

I will respond to emails about my attendance and communicate accordingly. I will also participate and share my ideas during meetings.

I will prioritize my involvement in this role by ensuring I attend all youth commission meetings, review all agenda items and materials to provide my best input, balance my time, and put the responsibilities this role will require above my other commitments.

I will make myself available for all meetings
On my free time, I enjoy playing chess and tennis. I love going outdoors with my family and hiking.

I participate in sports, play the piano, and attend math sessions on the weekends. I also enjoy taking small breaks as I believe it is healthy to unwind from the stressful moments of life, by playing basketball, spending time with my friends, or watching movies. **
I enjoy working out at the gym, meal prepping and spending time with family and friends.

Did not apply or attend meetings for 22-23 Culture Commission Did not apply or attend meetings for 22-23 Culture Commission Did not apply or attend meetings for 22-23 Culture Commission ** edited due to space constraints. Full text on application #5..
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Applicant
School
Grade
Criteria
Relevant
Employment,
Training, Etc.

Community &
Civic
Involvement &
Activities
What interests
you in the
position?
Qualities,
Experience &
Expertise
Why do you
want to serve?
14 15 16
Sharvesh Prabhakar Emily Rontal Sabrina Toor
Enochs Modesto High School Modesto High School
Sophmore Freshman Sophmore
Meets all requirements to serve on Youth Commission Meets all requirements to serve on Youth Commission Meets all requirements to serve on Youth Commission I have been actively involved in school clubs such as student council and debate club, which have honed my leadership and communication skills. Volunteering at local community events and fundraisers has given me a deeper understanding of the needs and challenges faced by different groups in our society. I have volunteered for 100+ hours at my local hospital. **
Blank blank
I am dedicated to making a positive impact. I volunteered over 100 hours at the hospital. At the library, I organized engaging events for teens and children to promote reading and social interaction, showcasing my leadership skills and passion for fostering a sense of community. I participated in multiple cleanups of the Stanislaus River allowed me to contribute to environmental preservation. I believe that joining the youth commission would provide me with the opportunity to collaborate with likeminded individuals, take on meaningful responsibilities, and continue making a difference in my community. **
I was the Student Body President of La Loma Junior High, the President of CJSF,(California Junior Scholarship Federation), and Vice Chairperson of the school Site Council. In La Loma Leadership, I ran our Instagram page, planned events/dances, decorated and set up for every Fun Friday and rally, and I led every student council meeting. I’ve been involved in helping out with Love Modesto. I participated in competitive cheer, volleyball, basketball, track, and am currently in Modesto High Cheer. As a Freshman at Modesto High, I am currently involved in Leadership and full IB, and I plan on joining ASB and other clubs. I look forward to having the chance to partake in this wonderful opportunity! ** blank
The youth commission's ability to empower youth voices, engage in meaningful community work, and drive impactful change excites me. I am passionate about contributing to my community and believe my perspective as a young individual is valuable. Joining the commission will also offer opportunities for personal growth and leadership development, preparing me for future responsibilities. Overall, I am eager to be part of positive change and help shape a better future for our community.

I think it would be great to branch out and help with my community in any opportunity I have, and this is a wonderful way for me to give back to the community that has helped me so much. I want to participate in making Modesto a better place! blank
I bring commitment to community service, leadership and organizational skills, effective communication, problem-solving abilities, environmental awareness, and a passion for positive change. I embrace diversity and am open-minded, eager to learn and collaborate for the betterment of our community and its youth.

I want to help with growth in my community, and I know that I can bring experience in working with others in all age groups, and I see myself as a good representation of today’s youth. I am both Filipino and White, so I experience being a biracial teenager, like most of our youth. This helps me relate to many, as well as work easily with most. blank
I want to serve on the Youth Commission because I believe in the power of youth voices and their ability to make a positive impact on our community. I am passionate about advocating for issues that matter to young people and contributing to creating a more inclusive and supportive environment. Serving on the commission will also provide opportunities for personal growth and leadership development, allowing me to collaborate with others dedicated to driving positive change. I am eager to be an advocate for positive youth development and contribute my skills and experiences to benefit our community.

I want to serve on the Youth Commission because I want to make a positive change on our community, whether that means I give my insight, experience, or time within the youth of Modesto. I genuinely love helping others, and it would be a wonderful experience to make Modesto better for many.

I want to work with students coming from different schools and backgrounds who share a common goal: making effective changes in their community. I’m looking forward to working with other community changemakers and becoming a voice for youth in Modesto. I am working on reducing nicotine usage in our community’s youth and started a nonprofit about nicotine cessation. We partner with other local nonprofits such as the Youth Empowerment Organization and have found mentorship in Modesto City Council Members Escutia-Braaton and Williams, and Mayor Zwahlen. Together we can find solutions that my nonprofit aims to address. Being a part of the Youth Commission would allow me to work with other students to greatly enhance our ability to make a positive impact on the community. I am a well-versed young professional who is passionate about changemaking and will make an impactful delegate on the Youth Commission. It is my priority that the issues faced by many of today’s students are recognized and rectified for the future of Modesto. ** #5..
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1 Primary Issues
Impacting Youth
in Community
Skills & Talents
Clubs & Extra
Curriculars
Activity Hrs
Role
Prioritization
Free Time
Activities
YC History
14 15 16
Mental health challenges among young individuals are prevalent in many communities, including Modesto. The well-being of youth is crucial for their personal growth, academic success, and overall quality of life. In the city of Modesto, like in many other places, there may be factors contributing to mental health issues among young people, such as academic pressures, social isolation, family dynamics, and economic uncertainties.

Poverty is a huge community issue because it causes people to be hungry and to not have things available to them, including clothing, entertainment, food, school supplies, and overall places to go. People aren’t able to be involved in extracurriculars, such as clubs and sports, that provide comfort and safe-spaces for kids. Without available clubs, people don’t have peers or adults that they can go to for help or acceptance, so it increases the separation in our today’s society. Making more belonging areas for kids, it’ll provide more representation in cultures and our community. The issue of poverty concerns the issue of certain people not feeling that they belong. ** Prolonged exposure to vaping and nicotine addiction poses health risks, creating mental health, family, social relationships, and financial issues; making it the primary issues plaguing the emerging generation locally. There is a correlation between adolescents vaping and an increased susceptibility to developing other addictive behaviors such as substance abuse. I started a nonprofit organization called Creation4Cessation, that promotes nicotine cessation through art among middle and high school students. We partner with the local Boys and Girls Club, and city council members to maximize participation and to reach underserved student populations. I am working to establish a Tobacco Retail License (TRL) with all stores selling tobacco, in an effort to limit the sale of tobacco in Modesto. ** As a member of the Commission, I will bring a diverse set of skills and talents that will contribute to its effectiveness and success. Through my experience organizing library events and building mountain bike trails, I have developed strong leadership skills and can inspire others to take action. Additionally, my ability to articulate ideas clearly and listen actively enables me to be an effective communicator, ensuring that the voices of fellow youth are heard and represented. Having participated in environmental cleanups and community service initiatives, I have honed my problem-solving abilities, analyzing complex issues and finding creative solutions. Furthermore, I value diversity and will actively promote inclusivity within the Commission, championing efforts to ensure equal opportunities for all. My environmental awareness drives me to advocate for sustainable practices, and my passion for community service and positive change fuels my dedication to making a meaningful impact. I am adaptable and open to new ideas, embracing change and remaining flexible in evolving situations. With these skills and attributes, I am eager to collaborate with fellow members and contribute to creating a more vibrant, inclusive, and youth-oriented community.

I have the ability of working well anyone, and I am dedicated to everything I’m apart of.

I have a positive attitude, as well as being organized. I also have a great mindset towards finding solutions, so I will help with issues needing solutions and with creating recommendations in order to better our community. Overall, I think that I would be a great asset for the Youth Commission!
I have had the opportunity to speak to Modesto City Councilmembers Rosa EscutiaBraaton and Jeremiah Williams to discuss community exposure and partnerships with my nonprofit. This month, I will be on a radio show called “Making a Difference,” which highlights Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) change makers within California. These instances where I was put on the spot to highlight myself and my projects have made me a credible and confident communicator, quick to build rapport with others, and become more methodical in planning and performing. My involvement in various district and community forums such as the Student Advisory Council and MCS Boundary Change Forum have allowed me to consistently make a strong impact at meetings, encourage delegation, consistently foster a cooperative and collaborative environment, and turn problems into opportunities. I am also very prompt in responding to emails and easily reachable.

My extracurriculars include Science Olympiad, Math tutoring, hospital volunteering, and the debate team. I have won awards and honors in each one, showcasing my dedication to any given topic. I am also actively involved in various community events and environmental initiatives. I participate in cleanups, engage in building bike trails, and created an app that calculates the environmental impact of cars. These diverse activities have allowed me to excel academically, showcase leadership skills, and contribute to causes I am passionate about. With a focus on community involvement and environmental stewardship, I am eager to bring my experiences and expertise to the Youth Commission, advocating for the interests of young people in our community.

Although last year I was involved in Yes Company, Love Modesto, Rams competitive cheer, volleyball, basketball, track, leadership, ASB Presidency, CJSF Presidency, Site council, and running a school Instagram page, I am starting my Freshman year included in only cheer, leadership, and full IB. I hope to be chosen for this wonderful opportunity in helping our community. I am looking forward to being more involved in Modesto and being apart of the Youth Commission!
Along with my nonprofit, I enjoy writing opinion editorials for the Modesto Bee regarding issues that affect youth in the Modesto City Schools (MCS) district. I have written articles about the new bell schedule change and its impact on students as well as setting clear guidelines on the use of AI in the classroom to maximize learning efficiency for students and teachers. At school, I’m involved with the Protecting Health and Slamming Tobacco club, the Indian Student Union, and Newspaper. I also serve as a Student Senator, which is a selected student representative invited to attend meetings to discuss issues on campus as well as a Student Ambassador, where I help bridge the gap of hesitation and unfamiliarity between freshmen and new students.

After observing the leaders of the clubs I was involved in during my freshman year, I’m looking forward to leading many club activities and initiatives this year. 10+ Hours 15+ hours 15+ hours
As a member of the Youth Commission, I will prioritize my involvement by dedicating time and effort to fulfill the responsibilities of the role. Understanding the significance of the commission's work, I will make it a priority to attend all meetings and actively participate in discussions and decision-making processes. I will also allocate time to research and understand the issues affecting young people in our community, ensuring that I am well-informed and prepared to advocate effectively.

I am great at time-management/multitasking, and I am responsible for all activities I partake in. Youth Commission will not interfere with my existing schedule and responsibilities.

I will prioritize my role on the Youth Commission by revisiting topics discussed in meetings, collaborating with peers, and closing the loop of communication with members on topics that have been raised at each meeting. At school, I will be sure to keep an open mind about matters that concern my peers to discuss at meetings. I believe that it is important to respond in an unbiased manner to the issues brought to me by students, remembering that each student has valuable concerns that deserve In my free time, I enjoy playing video games, tennis with friends, reading, running, and baking. These activities bring me joy and allow me to unwind, stay active, and explore my creative side.

On Sundays I go to Mass, but otherwise, during my free time I enjoy reading, swimming, walking my dogs, and spending time with my friends and family.

In my free time, I like to cook and bake, read a wide variety of books, spend time with my family and friends, and watch Netflix.

Applied for 22-23 Culture Commission in February 2023 Did not apply or attend meetings for 22-23 Culture Commission Applied for 22-23 Youth Commission; Not selected ** edited due to space constraints. Full text on application #5..
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From: [email protected]
Sent: Friday, August 18, 2023 1:49 AM
To: Opmize; Diane Sheatsley; Valerie Garcia
Subject: Online Form Submission #40191 for Boards, Commissions & Commiees Applicaon
External Email: Please use caution when clicking links and/or opening attachments.

Apply To: Youth Commission
First Name Laila
Last Name Ali
Date of Birth
School
Grade
Address
City Modesto
State CA
Zip Code
Home Phone
Work Phone
Email Address
Occupaon
Employer / Business
Business Address
#5..
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#5..
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Inclusive dates: 8/1/2023 - 8/18/2023
Do you have relaves or a
member of your household
who are employed by the
City of Modesto, or who are
currently serving on the City
Council, or who are Board
members or
Commissioners?
No
List relevant employment,
training, and experience,
cerficates of training,
licenses, and professional
registraon.

As an intern for Mayor Zwahlen, I have seen the initiatives of our youth firsthand. I have also been given the opportunity to be more involved in our community, by shadowing the mayor's everyday life, and learning more about Modesto's legislative plans.

How did you learn about
the board for which you are
applying?
Other (Please specify)
If other, please specify: A member of the youth commission Describe your involvement
in community acvies and
civic organizaons. (Do not
list parsan polical
pares.)
I have interned for Modesto's District Attorney Office, and have been able to help create trial binders, view/analyze evidence, and shadow attorneys, all while learning more about the criminal justice system. I have also attended meetings of the Modesto Rotary Club. This year, I am a member of Leadership Academy, and I will gain the opportunity to learn more about community events and activities. I am also a volunteer for the nonprofit Vote Me, where we provide research to the general public on candidates running for office. I raise awareness for this nonprofit, and bring attention to the important research and events they host.

What is it about this
posion that interests you?
I am interested in this position because I want to advocate for the youth of Modesto. I would love the opportunity to listen to the voices of Modesto's youth, and act on those voices. I am interested in the chance to lead to kickstart initiatives that will help our youth and make a real difference in our community.

What qualies, experience,
and experse would you
bring to it?
I will bring my public speaking and listening abilities to this position. Through the program Girls State, I have gained the opportunities to learn about the issues impacting youth and communities from across California. I honed my listening abilities, to truly hear about the issues that mattered to people.

Later, when I was selected as one of the 2 senators
representing California at Girls Nation, I was able to discuss the issues impacting Californian communities and hear about the issues affecting other states. Through Girls Nation, I honed my ability to speak calmly and passionately by the current events and issues impacting our nation. I will use both my public speaking and listening abilities to this role on the Commission. (Section Break)
#5..
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Demographics
City of Modesto invites all applicants to voluntarily self-identify their gender, race/ethnicity, veteran status and disability. Submission of this information is voluntary and refusal to provide will not affect the application process. The information will be kept confidential and will only be used in accordance with the provisions of applicable laws, executive orders and regulations, including those that require the information to be summarized and reported to the federal government for civil rights enforcement.

Gender
Ethnicity
Are you currently, or have
you ever, served in the
Armed Forces?
Do you consider yourself
disabled?
(Section Break)
Why do you want to serve
on the Youth Commission?
I want to serve on the Youth Commission because I would love to run for public office one day, as a County Supervisor or a California legislator. Public office is my main goal for my future, and the Youth Commission will allow me a glimpse into what my future may look like. I am passionate about representing the needs of Modesto's youth, and I would love the opportunity to utilize my experience and skills to improve the Modesto community.

What do you see as the
primary issues currently
impacng youth in our
community?
One of the primary issues I believe impacts our youth is the lack of civil engagement. Youth are uninvolved in the election process, they do not research candidates nor do they
participate in public discourse about current events and issues.

I believe the youth hold an important voice in our election system. However, we have to encourage our youth to use these voices. Through the nonprofit Vote Me, I encourage youth to research candidates for public office, and I encourage public discourse about these candidates through events. I would like to host more community events where we can encourage civil discourse amongst our youth. This can include anything from political discussions about issues and ideas, to registering our youth to vote, and educating them about candidates. I am also currently kickstarting a voting registration plan at Gregori, and I would love to move this plan to a larger scale, perhaps a community level. One of my main goals on the Youth
Commission would be to increase civil engagement with the youth of our community.

What skills and talents will
you bring to the
I will bring decisiveness, initiative, passion, and strong communication skills to this role. As someone who created both #5..
- 167 -
Commission? an Asian American Association and a Speech and Debate team at my school, I have demonstrated that I take initiative to improve my community. When I saw a gap in the cultural
diversity at Gregori, I created plans to host a Culture Day this September. When I realized other Modesto City Schools had a Debate club, when Gregori did not, I created one, ensuring that Gregori students can gain the valuable opportunities they deserve. I made sure we attended competitions and practices, to hone our student's speech skills. To lead both of these clubs, and organize events, I had to be decisive in scheduling meetings and events, I had to communicate with members and teacher advisors. I will bring this same passion, decisiveness and initiative to this role on the Youth Commision.

What other clubs and extra
curriculars are you involved
in?
I am involved in Speech and Debate as well as Asian American Association. I also intern for the mayor once or twice a week. a. How many hours a week
do you spend in these
acvies?
8-10
b. How will you priorize
your involvement in this
role?
The Youth Commission has only one meeting per month,
making it easy for me to dedicate my time to this role.

Furthermore, my passion and commitment to representing the youth of Modesto will allow me to prioritize this role above all other commitments.

What do you enjoy doing
with your free me?
In my free time, I enjoy playing violin, reading, and spending time with friends and family. I enjoy attending events with the mayor and staying updated on the community by watching City Council meetings.

Parent / Guardian
Acknowledgement
If selected, I commit to attending all my meetings and serving diligently to represent the youth of Modesto on the Youth Commission.

Email not displaying correctly? View it in your browser. #5..
- 168 -
From: [email protected]
Sent: Tuesday, August 15, 2023 9:35 AM
To: Opmize; Diane Sheatsley; Valerie Garcia
Subject: Online Form Submission #40135 for Boards, Commissions & Commiees Applicaon
External Email: Please use caution when clicking links and/or opening attachments.

Apply To: Youth Commission
First Name Saida
Last Name Alvarez
Date of Birth
School
Grade
Address
City Modesto
State California
Zip Code
Home Phone
Work Phone
Email Address
Occupaon
Employer / Business
Business Address
#5..
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City
State
Zip Code
Educaon
(Section Break)
Qualifications:

Are you a member from a
bona fide local nonparsan
polical organizaon, with
tax-exempt status under
Secon 501(c)(3) of the
Internal Revenue Code,
dedicated to encouraging
informed and acve
parcipaon in
government?
No
Are you a member from a
former Civil Grand Jury who
has served in that role
within in the previous five
years?
No
Full-me Highschool
Enrollment Requirement
I understand that I must be enrolled full-time in High School in order to apply for this committee or commission.

Are you enrolled full-me in
high school?
Yes
Modesto Resident
Requirement
I understand that I must be a Modesto resident in order to apply for this committee or commission.

Are you a Modesto
resident?
Yes
If yes, what was the date of
residency?
Field not completed.

Are you a registered voter
in the City of Modesto?
No
Are you a registered voter
in Stanislaus County?
No
Are you now or have you
ever been employed by the
City of Modesto?
No
Inclusive dates: Field not completed.
#5..
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Do you have relaves or a
member of your household
who are employed by the
City of Modesto, or who are
currently serving on the City
Council, or who are Board
members or
Commissioners?
No
List relevant employment,
training, and experience,
cerficates of training,
licenses, and professional
registraon.

Field not completed.

How did you learn about
the board for which you are
applying?
Newspaper
Describe your involvement
in community acvies and
civic organizaons. (Do not
list parsan polical
pares.)
Field not completed.

What is it about this
posion that interests you?
I’m interested in this position because it would allow me to help to improve our community by sharing ideas and collaborating with those around me to keep in mind the what is best for the community.

What qualies, experience,
and experse would you
bring to it?
I am bring my organization skills and my willingness to work endlessly and hard to be able to make a positive impact during my time on the committee if I get the opportunity to serve. I’m also bring the ability to be vulnerable, which I believe is a vital skill to have being in this position because it allows me to be open minded and open to the community and their needs.
(Section Break)
Demographics
City of Modesto invites all applicants to voluntarily self-identify their gender, race/ethnicity, veteran status and disability. Submission of this information is voluntary and refusal to provide will not affect the application process. The information will be kept confidential and will only be used in accordance with the provisions of applicable laws, executive orders and regulations, including those that require the information to be summarized and reported to the federal government for civil rights enforcement.

Gender
Ethnicity
Are you currently, or have
#5..
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you ever, served in the
Armed Forces?
Do you consider yourself
disabled?
(Section Break)
Why do you want to serve
on the Youth Commission?
I wanna serve on the Youth Commission in order to gain
experience helping the community and to be able to become a better person, learning to help and to be mindful of others.

What do you see as the
primary issues currently
impacng youth in our
community?
I believe one of the primary issues currently impacting youth in our community is social media. I believe that while social media can be a positive outlet for our youth to express themselves and for us to receive our information, it is also a toxic environment. It is proven to have caused many of the
insecurities in our youth and has ruined the social skills of many, which only negatively impacts our community. Without these vital social skills, we cannot have good functioning community, which is why social media is such an issue in today’s community.

What skills and talents will
you bring to the
Commission?
I’m bringing my organization skills, my open minded
perspective, and my willingness to do anything the committee needs to help the community.

What other clubs and extra
curriculars are you involved
in?
I am a part of the Modesto High cross country and track team.

I’m also a part of the academic decathlon team.
a. How many hours a week
do you spend in these
acvies?
For my sports teams, I spend about two hours a day working out and during race season, I spend most weekends racing. As for my academic decathlon, I usually spend a hour a day studying.
b. How will you priorize
your involvement in this
role?
I would prioritize my involvement in this role by making sure to always bring forth my best effort and always have the best interest of the committee in mind.

What do you enjoy doing
with your free me?
During my free time, I enjoy reading, running and walking around stores and looking around, preferably around Barnes and Noble.

Are you able to meet the
me and travel
commitments of
approximately three to four
hours per month that come
as a member of this
commission?
Yes
Applicant
Acknowledgement
If selected, I commit to attending all my meetings and serving diligently to represent the youth of Modesto on the Youth Commission.
#5..
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Parent / Guardian
Acknowledgement
If selected, I commit to attending all my meetings and serving diligently to represent the youth of Modesto on the Youth Commission.

Email not displaying correctly? View it in your browser. #5..
- 173 -
From: [email protected]
Sent: Friday, August 18, 2023 4:47 PM
To: Opmize; Diane Sheatsley; Valerie Garcia
Subject: Online Form Submission #40201 for Boards, Commissions & Commiees Applicaon
External Email: Please use caution when clicking links and/or opening attachments.

Apply To: Youth Commission
First Name Kayvon
Last Name Banankhah
Date of Birth
School
Grade
Address
City Modesto
State CA
Zip Code 95355
Home Phone
Work Phone
Email Address
Occupaon
Employer / Business
Business Address
#5..
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City
State
Zip Code
Educaon
(Section Break)
Qualifications:

Are you enrolled full-me in
high school?
Yes
Modesto Resident
Requirement
I understand that I must be a Modesto resident in order to apply for this committee or commission.

My relevant experience for this position has been serving in similar roles in my community previously, In my previous school, I served on the School Site Council, helping to manage funds and direct our school's efforts to the ares most impactful to kids. Currently, I also serve on the Modesto City Schools LCAP committee, where I serve a similar role on a much larger scale. This position allows me to put direct input as to what goals are most important to my fellow youth and in what ways we can address them. Additionally, being active in student leadership at my school has given me a close connection to the student body and a firsthand experience of what youth are struggling with.

How did you learn about
the board for which you are
applying?
Place of Employment
Describe your involvement
in community acvies and
civic organizaons. (Do not
list parsan polical
pares.)
Currently, I am involved in my school districts LCAP committee, and I'd say that I'm most involved in the community within my schools leadership program. We make efforts to reach towards those around us, hear their voices, and use them to inform our decision making,
What is it about this
posion that interests you?
This position not only interests, but excites me, because of the potential impact that it would allow me and fellows youths to have on others in the community. The ability to bring often overlooked voices to the table and make them heard is not something that I take for granted, and if given the chance to serve, I'd make every effort to hear all input and opinions in order properly support and represent the youth in our
community.

What qualies, experience,
and experse would you
bring to it?
For some time now, I have been involved in my school district's community LCAP committee. For me, the ability to represent my youth has been a gift, and I've always treated it as such.

Even though I am often the youngest person in the room, full of parents and teachers, I have made it a commitment to stand for youth voice and the issues that effect us most. I fully intended to do the same on the youth commission, being an outspoken advocate for those youth who need it most.
(Section Break)
Demographics
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City of Modesto invites all applicants to voluntarily self-identify their gender, race/ethnicity, veteran status and disability. Submission of this information is voluntary and refusal to provide will not affect the application process. The information will be kept confidential and will only be used in accordance with the provisions of applicable laws, executive orders and regulations, including those that require the information to be summarized and reported to the federal government for civil rights enforcement.

Gender
Ethnicity
Are you currently, or have
you ever, served in the
Armed Forces?
Do you consider yourself
disabled?
(Section Break)
Why do you want to serve
on the Youth Commission?
The primary reasons I want to serve on the Modesto Youth Commission are to advocate for young people in our city, to communicate the needs of young people to the city council and city government, and to advocate for the solutions to the problems young people face. If chosen to serve, I would love to focus on the following three priorities:

1. Spreading Financial Literacy:

I believe that the best way to help historically underprivileged groups break out of generational poverty is by creating and leading initiatives which teach the basics of personal finance.

Although this education should happen in school, this sadly isn’t part of the current k-12 curriculum. Nonetheless, teaching young people financial literacy has been empirically proven to heighten the chances of greater financial success once young people become adults. I think a great solution could involve the city creating a monthly class available to all kids in Modesto where students are taught the basics of personal finance in a kid-friendly manner. Doing so would not only benefit students personally by giving them more financial freedom in their lives, but it would also help close the massive wealth gap that exists in our nation.

2. Expanding Upon and Creating New Recreational
Opportunities for Young People:

I think recreational activities are a great opportunity for students to foster new interpersonal relationships, to learn something new, and to keep them doing something productive, as
opposed to wasting time on social media or—in some cases— committing petty crimes. I also believe that these opportunities give students who face a harsh or unsafe home environment a safe space to enjoy and have fun in. The Parks, Recreation, and Neighborhoods Department already does an amazing job #5..
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running programs like youth sports teams and movie nights in the park. I think it would be great if our city could continue to focus on supporting and expanding these opportunities.

3. Broadening access to mental health resources:

As you probably already know, poor mental health has been an extremely prevalent issue for many young people, especially after the pandemic. It’s extremely sad to think about the thousands of kids in our city who are struggling to enjoy some of the best years of their life due to mental health struggles.

Personally, I think the city can play an important part in solving this problem by offering counseling services and resources to young people who need it most. We can also host classes that teach young people effective methods to deal with stress and anxiety. Furthermore, we can implement programs for young people, such as guided nature zen walks and meditation
classes which can help them find peace in their lives. Finally, the city could publicize important mental health resources such as the National Suicide Prevention Line and the National Mental Health Hotline on community benches, for example.

Although I care deeply about these priorities, I think the most important part of being a Youth Commissioner is the ability to be open-minded and collaborative. As a commissioner, I would work with fellow commissioners to find areas of agreement while planning out our collective goals. All in all, it would be an honor to serve on the Youth Commission and I can’t wait to meet the other student commissioners!
What do you see as the
primary issues currently
impacng youth in our
community?
The primary issues impacting youth in our community are the lack of financial education and action on mental health. Many young people, particularly those in underprivileged
communities, lack basic financial knowledge and skills, and suffer later in life because of poor money management. What's worse is that many are unaware that there are better ways to handle their finances, chiefly because financial education is largely not present or just optional. Secondly, a lack of knowledge and action about mental health in our community is plaguing our youth. Coming out of post-pandemic online school was hard on all students, and many youth still face mental health challenges like stress or anxiety, not having the knowledge or access to resources for help.

What skills and talents will
you bring to the
Commission?
I’ve always been passionate about helping those who aren’t heard and speaking for those unspoken for. As someone who used to be extremely shy, I know what it feels like when you aren’t heard. I also know how important it is to make sure those who can’t speak for themselves have advocates that can
advance their needs. Thus, I will apply this passion and bring a strong work ethic to this committee. I plan to put in extra time and sit in on other committees, like the LCAP committee of Modesto City Schools or City Council meetings, to fully inform and enrich my decisions. Additionally, I’ll draw on my previous experiences to help guide me. I’ve been a little bit of a finance nerd my whole life, so I’ll use my knowledge and experience #5..
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from teaching my peers financial literacy at the Finance Club I created at my previous school and apply it to a broader scale.

What other clubs and extra
curriculars are you involved
in?
I'm currently involved in Speech and Debate, MCS LCAP
Committee, Teaching Finance at the Modesto Library,
Waterpolo, and ASB Leadership.
a. How many hours a week
do you spend in these
acvies?
10 b. How will you priorize
your involvement in this
role?
To me, this role is so much more than just a title or something to put on a resume. Growing up in Modesto, I’ve seen what we do well as a community, and what we can improve upon. Being surrounded by youth everyday, I see those that struggle, or those that underperform, or those that feel like they aren’t being heard. My passion is to help those students feel heard and bring their voice out into any decision I’d make. Thus, if a scheduling conflict came about or I had plans on the same day as a Youth Commission meeting, I’d delay them and prioritize the meeting. Additionally, I’d spend time outside the meetings in areas like the LCAP board or the City Council or School board meetings to inform my decisions and make sure I’m doing my best to make underrepresented voices come through in my decisions.

What do you enjoy doing
with your free me?
My go-to hobby is playing guitar. Whenever I feel like I need a break or should focus on something else, I pick up my acoustic guitar and start playing whatever comes to my mind. When I have a little more time (or if there’s a beautiful sunset), I go out with my camera and take pictures. For me, the focus needed to stabilize my hands, line it up just right, and adjust the lighting to perfection takes my mind off other issues. The crisp sound of the snapping shutter is my form of stress relief. Additionally, Scrabble games with my sister are a long-standing tradition, and the fierce debate on whether words like zoot-suit actually exist are oddly comforting(don’t tell her, but I’ll miss her when she goes to college).

Parent / Guardian
Acknowledgement
If selected, I commit to attending all my meetings and serving diligently to represent the youth of Modesto on the Youth Commission.
#5..
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Email not displaying correctly? View it in your browser. #5..
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From: [email protected]
Sent: Sunday, August 13, 2023 10:41 PM
To: Opmize; Diane Sheatsley; Valerie Garcia
Subject: Online Form Submission #40115 for Boards, Commissions & Commiees Applicaon
External Email: Please use caution when clicking links and/or opening attachments.

Apply To: Youth Commission
First Name Aneel
Last Name Brar
Date of Birth
School
Grade
Address
City Modesto
State California
Zip Code
Home Phone
Work Phone
Email Address
Occupaon
Employer / Business
Business Address
#5..
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City
State
Zip Code
Educaon
(Section Break)
Qualifications:

Are you enrolled full-me in
high school?
Yes
Modesto Resident
Requirement
I understand that I must be a Modesto resident in order to apply for this committee or commission.

I am a student.

How did you learn about
the board for which you are
applying?
Community Group
Describe your involvement
in community acvies and
civic organizaons. (Do not
list parsan polical
pares.)
I have a ton of involvement in community activities and civic organization, one of which includes volunteering for hours at one of Modesto's local hospitals, DMC. Here I am a crew leader where I assign specific tasks and runs to people and complete some myself including delivering labs and discharging patients.

Additionally, I assist in teaching classes at my local Taekwondo studio where I work with kids, people who are mentally
challenged, adults, and all different kinds of people.

Furthermore, I tutor kids who can't afford to pay for a tutor all across America, which allows me to bring a positive change in so many poorer neighborhoods.

What is it about this
posion that interests you?
Being given the ability to make a change in the lives of the youth within my locality means so much to me. From a young age, I have always taken interest in hobbies or extracurricular that include helping people, and being able to do this on such a higher level, would mean everything to me. I would make it my duty to make the greatest positive impact I could on all the youth of Modesto. Additionally, I like collaborating, meaning I feel like I would be a good fit with the team when it comes to brainstorming ideas, putting plans to action, and getting things done. Furthermore, within this role, I would be able to act as a voice for the youth, which would feel amazing knowing I am changing people's lives for the better and spreading the voice of those who aren't given the opportunity to speak out.

What qualies, experience,
and experse would you
bring to it?
I bring many qualities and expertise to the table. These include collaboration from Waterpolo, team building and leadership from being a leader in Mind Out Loud, a non-profit under the California Association of Education, and by being a crew leader in a volunteering shift at DMC, advocacy from a non profit where I advocate for youth mental health across the nation with hundreds of people listening to the podcasts I produce, and social skills from having to teach and work with a large variety of people within my karate studio including adults, children under the age of 7, people with developmental disabilities, and #5..
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those of my age as well. Furthermore, I have great experience in working as a team through volunteering at DMC in which those of us on a shift communicate who does what task,
playing waterpolo where communication is necessary on the go, and through "Mind Out Loud," where I work with a team to produce content about teen mental health and have teamed up with many youth organizations.
(Section Break)
Demographics
City of Modesto invites all applicants to voluntarily self-identify their gender, race/ethnicity, veteran status and disability. Submission of this information is voluntary and refusal to provide will not affect the application process. The information will be kept confidential and will only be used in accordance with the provisions of applicable laws, executive orders and regulations, including those that require the information to be summarized and reported to the federal government for civil rights enforcement.

Gender
Ethnicity
Are you currently, or have
you ever, served in the
Armed Forces?
Do you consider yourself
disabled?
(Section Break)
Why do you want to serve
on the Youth Commission?
I believe that there are many problems the youth of our society is facing whether it be be drugs, mental health, or lack of attention to their needs, something must be done. Already being in an organization called Mind Out Loud, which is partnered with the California Department of Education, in which me and a group of others shine light towards mental health within youth through a podcast with over a hundred listeners, I like to surround myself around supporting the youth of our current and upcoming generations. Through this Modesto Youth Commission, I believe that this organization will best allow me to make a change in the youth of our society, and even better, locally. I believe that there are too many problems to name and being able to work with 8 other determined students to bring change in our communities could make the difference in
Modesto's next generation of youth, and something I am
excited to be a part of.

What do you see as the
primary issues currently
impacng youth in our
community?
The primary issue I see impacting the youth in my community would be drugs, including weed, vapes, etc. I believe almost every kid can agree with this, as even going to the bathroom is a hassle, knowing you must smell the disgusting combination of #5..
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fumes released from these vapes. Additionally, even when walking through hallways and in close contact with pother students, you can pick up them talking about when to vape in the bathroom stalls and when to leave class to complete this action. I believe that drugs, especially vapes, are quite literally poisoning the youth of Modesto and a change must be brought, whether and institution that teaches them of the risks vapes can pose, or another platform where students can seek help from their addiction.

What skills and talents will
you bring to the
Commission?
One of the skills I bring to the Commission include my
experience in youth advocacy, as stated before, I am a member of an advocacy group for student mental health, organized by the California Department of Education. Within this group I also learned to work very well as a team, in which together we must come up with creative ideas for podcasts, speak in front of hundreds of viewers, and communicate in getting tasks done and supporting each other. Additionally, I am a great public speaker, meaning I will not be afraid to give presentations or speeches during meetings or events. Furthermore, I am in a leadership academy organized through my Taekwondo
academy in which I learn to be and act like a leader, including the proper way to approach people, assist them, and
communicate effectively. On the note of communication, that is another trait I have, as I have learned how to communicate with all types of people, since I volunteer at taekwondo studio where I teach and get to work with kids and adults of lower belt levels, even many with mental disabilities such as autism and more.

The final skill I will be mentioning is efficiency, as I strive to complete all tasks before a deadline and in a timely manner, meaning I won't allow the team to fall behind due to my laziness.

What other clubs and extra
curriculars are you involved
in?
Other clubs and extracurricular I am involved in, include:

Taekwondo, Water Polo, volunteering at a hospital, Future Business Leaders of America, Mock Trial, Project Change, Global Club, Mind Out Loud (Mental Health Organization), and Teens for Press, in which me and a group of other students push for press rights within the youth of our community. a. How many hours a week
do you spend in these
acvies?
20 b. How will you priorize
your involvement in this
role?
By knowing how high of a status this role is, it would be my upmost responsibility to place this role above other extra curricuar, meaning if there is a conflict of schedule between this role and another event, I would put this event first as making a change in my locality is the most important thing to me.

What do you enjoy doing
with your free me?
In my free time I enjoy going on walks, drawing, playing with my dog,playing video games, watching movies with my family, and playing board games,
Are you able to meet the Yes
#5..
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me and travel
commitments of
approximately three to four
hours per month that come
as a member of this
commission?
Applicant
Acknowledgement
If selected, I commit to attending all my meetings and serving diligently to represent the youth of Modesto on the Youth Commission.

Parent / Guardian
Acknowledgement
If selected, I commit to attending all my meetings and serving diligently to represent the youth of Modesto on the Youth Commission.

Email not displaying correctly? View it in your browser. #5..
- 186 -
From: [email protected]
Sent: Friday, August 18, 2023 5:00 PM
To: Opmize; Diane Sheatsley; Valerie Garcia
Subject: Online Form Submission #40203 for Boards, Commissions & Commiees Applicaon
External Email: Please use caution when clicking links and/or opening attachments.

Apply To: Youth Commission
First Name Harman
Last Name Chahal
Date of Birth
School
Grade
Address
City Modesto
State CA
Zip Code
Home Phone
Work Phone
Email Address
Occupaon
Employer / Business
Business Address
#5..
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City
State
Zip Code
Educaon
(Section Break)
Qualifications:

Are you enrolled full-me in
high school?
Yes
Modesto Resident
Requirement
I understand that I must be a Modesto resident in order to apply for this committee or commission.

Are you a Modesto
resident?
Yes
If yes, what was the date of
residency?
Are you a registered voter
in the City of Modesto?
Yes
Are you a registered voter
in Stanislaus County?
Yes
Are you now or have you
ever been employed by the
City of Modesto?
No
Inclusive dates: Field not completed.
#5..
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Do you have relaves or a
member of your household
who are employed by the
City of Modesto, or who are
currently serving on the City
Council, or who are Board
members or
Commissioners?
No
List relevant employment,
training, and experience,
cerficates of training,
licenses, and professional
registraon.

Intern at Stanislaus County District Attorney's Office, delegate for American Legion California Boys and Girls State, and delegate for Asian Pacific Youth Leadership Project.

How did you learn about
the board for which you are
applying?
Newspaper
Describe your involvement
in community acvies and
civic organizaons. (Do not
list parsan polical
pares.)
Volunteer for local non-profit: The Peace Collective/The Peace Fridge, I organized multiple donation drives through this organization to help the underserved and homeless community.

What is it about this
posion that interests you?
I am excited to fulfill all the responsibilities and roles that this position entails, however there is one responsibilities listed in the Youth Commission that is particularly invigorating:

Responsibilities "a." Responsibility "a" states that
commissioners will advise the City Council and City Manager about issues that pertain to youth. This is galvanizing as I have always had an affinity to get involved in politics and
government, and being able to introduce pressing issues for youth to our city council will allow me to directly impact our community through this connection with our local elected officials.

What qualies, experience,
and experse would you
bring to it?
Over the summer I was an intern at the Stanislaus County District Attorney's Office, and I was able to visualize first-hand how the justice system works through the eyes of "The People of the State of California." I was also able to sympathize with victims of horrific crimes, while simultaneously realizing that at times, there can be two sides to a story. My time with the District Attorney taught me humility and compassion, and ironically, a lot of legal terms that I believe could be useful when delegating with the City Council and other elected officials.

Additionally, my experience as a delegate at the California Boys and Girls State and Asian Pacific Youth Leadership Project programs greatly expanded my experience as to how city and county governments work through building a mock city council and meeting elected officials in the State Legislature. I believe my experience in these programs taught me why taking upon selfless leadership positions is important, and that civil discourse is the only way we will progress as a community. #5..
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(Section Break)
Demographics
City of Modesto invites all applicants to voluntarily self-identify their gender, race/ethnicity, veteran status and disability. Submission of this information is voluntary and refusal to provide will not affect the application process. The information will be kept confidential and will only be used in accordance with the provisions of applicable laws, executive orders and regulations, including those that require the information to be summarized and reported to the federal government for civil rights enforcement.

Gender
Ethnicity
Are you currently, or have
you ever, served in the
Armed Forces?
Do you consider yourself
disabled?
(Section Break)
Why do you want to serve
on the Youth Commission?
I would like to serve on the Youth Commission because I want to increase opportunities and resources for the youth of Modesto. While at programs such as California Boys and Girls State and Asian Pacific Youth Leadership Project, I quickly realized that there was a lack of students attending such programs from the valley, with some even saying "Modesto? Where is that?" This caught my attention as I had realized that a majority of urban Californian students had never thought about the valley as a place where students could thrive, as they had not seen many of them at rigorous educational programs. I would like to serve on the Youth Commission because I want to decrease the gap between the central valley and urban
California, and create a plethora of opportunities for students in Modesto, just as they are offered to many students in more urban parts of the state.

What do you see as the
primary issues currently
impacng youth in our
community?
The primary issues I believe are currently impacting youth in our community are a great disparity in the resources offered to students in rural versus urban California. For example, in the bay area, many schools host standardized testing preparation as well as have dozens of test centers for the SAT and ACT, while the nearest one to students in Modesto is not even in the city, it is in Turlock. I believe we need to expand educational opportunities for students in Modesto. Another issue I believe that is pressing the youth of Modesto is a lack of awareness about politics and civic engagement as compared to the rest of California.

What skills and talents will I believe I can bring the skills of creativity and innovation the #5..
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you bring to the
Commission?
the Commission. This is because as a student, I saw a problem of a lack of political and civic participation among youth in my school, and so I started a club "Teens Engage in Activism" in which we have pre-registered many students to vote, as well as become more aware about issues impacting us locally, at the state, and national level.

What other clubs and extra
curriculars are you involved
in?
President of Teens Engage in Activism Club
Co-founder and Co-president of Model United Nations
Vice President of Asian American Student Association
Mock Trial
Speech and Debate
Stanislaus County Office of Education Leadership Academy California Scholarship Federation
Project Change Club
Swim
Water Polo
National History Day
a. How many hours a week
do you spend in these
acvies?
10-20
b. How will you priorize
your involvement in this
role?
I have a weekly planner that I utilize to plan out how I much time I will spend on school and extracurriculars, it has been very effective for me to organize my schedule and I will use it to be fully committed to the Youth Commission while balancing school and other extracurriculars.

What do you enjoy doing
with your free me?
I enjoy reading (The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald and Michelle Obama are some of my favorites), thrifting at local thrift shops, as well as playing Water Polo and Swim.

Parent / Guardian
Acknowledgement
If selected, I commit to attending all my meetings and serving diligently to represent the youth of Modesto on the Youth Commission.

Email not displaying correctly? View it in your browser. #5..
- 191 -
From: [email protected]
Sent: Thursday, August 17, 2023 2:58 PM
To: Opmize; Diane Sheatsley; Valerie Garcia
Subject: Online Form Submission #40177 for Boards, Commissions & Commiees Applicaon
External Email: Please use caution when clicking links and/or opening attachments.

Apply To: Youth Commission
First Name Armaan
Last Name Desai
Date of Birth
School
Grade
Address
City Modesto
State CA
Zip Code
Home Phone
Work Phone
Email Address
Occupaon
Employer / Business
Business Address
#5..
- 192 -
City
State
Zip Code
Educaon Completing fourth and final year of high school at Joseph A.

Gregori High School:

EDUCATION
Joseph A. Gregori High School Graduation Date May. 2024 Unweighted GPA: 3.9
Weighted GPA: 4.71
Enrolled in IB program freshmen year before switching to AP school
Completed AP Coursework (Sophomore year - Junior Year): AP European History, AP Environmental Science, AP Calculus AB, AP Biology, AP Computer Science Principles, AP Physics 1, AP U.S History, AP Language and Composition.

AP Coursework in Progress (Senior Year): AP Calculus BC, AP Government and Politics, AP Literature and Composition, AP Psychology, AP Statistics
(Section Break)
Qualifications:

Are you enrolled full-me in
high school?
Yes
Modesto Resident
Requirement
I understand that I must be a Modesto resident in order to apply for this committee or commission.
#5..
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Are you a Modesto
resident?
Yes
If yes, what was the date of
residency?
Are you a registered voter
in the City of Modesto?
No
Are you a registered voter
in Stanislaus County?
No
Are you now or have you
ever been employed by the
City of Modesto?
Yes
If yes, in what capacity? Summer Volunteer/Intern
Inclusive dates: 6/3/2023 - 7/23/2023
Do you have relaves or a
member of your household
who are employed by the
City of Modesto, or who are
currently serving on the City
Council, or who are Board
members or
Commissioners?
Yes
If yes, please explain: Mother is on the Board of Zoning Adjustments List relevant employment,
training, and experience,
cerficates of training,
licenses, and professional
registraon.

Summer Volunteer at District Attorney's Office; No certificates of training, licenses, or professional registration.

How did you learn about
the board for which you are
applying?
Other (Please specify)
If other, please specify: Social Media post by Board's Social Media page.

Describe your involvement
in community acvies and
civic organizaons. (Do not
list parsan polical
pares.)
Participated in Boys State over the summer, a prestigious civic organization for incoming High school seniors
Accepted into and now a participant of, Stanislaus County Office of Education's Leadership Academy
What is it about this
posion that interests you?
For about ten years of my life I had lived right next to Dragoo park near the Sylvan area, on Drakeshire Court and I practically grew up there and a major part of my childhood memories reside in that park. Growing up, I have come to recognize the value of these spaces not just as places for leisure, but as avenues for community building, environmental stewardship, #5..
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and even personal development. As a young adult, I feel a responsibility to represent the youth voice in ensuring these spaces cater to the evolving needs of our younger generation.

In a digital age where screen time dominates, it's crucial that our parks and recreational activities offer compelling reasons for young people to engage, stay active, and connect with nature. I want to be part of the Youth Commission to advocate for amenities and programs that resonate with my peers, ensuring that they are not only well-maintained but also innovative and in line with the interests of today's youth. I believe that by working collaboratively, we can create parks and programs that are vibrant but inclusively beneficial for all residents, regardless of age.

What qualies, experience,
and experse would you
bring to it?
I have taken noticable leadership roles in my high school community, by Co-founding, the Model United Nations club as well as the Speech and Debate club. I have also demonstrated leadership and initiative, by informing our entirely new administration(Principal, Assistant Principal, College
Coordinator) about a civic program called Boys State, of which they were not aware, to be advertised at our school to give students the knowledge and opportunity to participate. At this civic program, I ran for the highest possible position, and although I fell short in the election, I gained valuable knowledge and first hand experience in politics and leadership of the sort.

Lastly I am also the student president of Indian Cultural Society, here in Modesto, where we have organized multiple large scale events at the Gallo Center, with over 500 people in attendance.

The show was a multicultural dance event/show inclusive of people from all backgrounds. This invaluable experience has truly given me a lot of new insight on real, and hefty leadership roles.
(Section Break)
Demographics
City of Modesto invites all applicants to voluntarily self-identify their gender, race/ethnicity, veteran status and disability. Submission of this information is voluntary and refusal to provide will not affect the application process. The information will be kept confidential and will only be used in accordance with the provisions of applicable laws, executive orders and regulations, including those that require the information to be summarized and reported to the federal government for civil rights enforcement.

Gender
#5..
- 195 -
Ethnicity
Are you currently, or have
you ever, served in the
Armed Forces?
Do you consider yourself
disabled?
(Section Break)
Why do you want to serve
on the Youth Commission?
For about ten years of my life I had lived right next to Dragoo park near the Sylvan area, on Drakeshire Court and I practically grew up there and a major part of my childhood memories reside in that park. Growing up, I have come to recognize the value of these spaces not just as places for leisure, but as avenues for community building, environmental stewardship, and even personal development. As a young adult, I feel a responsibility to represent the youth voice in ensuring these spaces cater to the evolving needs of our younger generation.

What do you see as the
primary issues currently
impacng youth in our
community?
Among the most pressing issues impacting our youth in
Modesto is substance abuse. The Central Valley, including our city, has witnessed a concerning prevalence of substance abuse, particularly among young individuals. This often stems from a combination of societal stressors, peer pressure, and, at times, limited access to mental health and counseling
resources. Closely linked to this is the evident economic disparity within our community. Many of our youth grapple with uncertainties about their future prospects, be it in terms of higher education opportunities, securing stable employment, or even just the dream of affordable housing in an escalating market. Furthermore, as the digital age continues to influence youth's recreational choices, we face a challenge in offering them engaging offline activities. A strengthened focus on our parks, recreational centers, and diverse community programs is imperative. These spaces not only act as alternatives to screen time but also foster community involvement, physical health, and a sense of belonging.

What skills and talents will
you bring to the
Commission?
I have taken noticeable leadership roles in my high school community, by Co-founding, the Model United Nations club as well as the Speech and Debate club. I have also demonstrated leadership and initiative, by informing our entirely new #5..
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administration(Principal, Assistant Principal, College
Coordinator) about a civic program called Boys State, of which they were not aware, to be advertised at our school to give students the knowledge and opportunity to participate. At this civic program, I ran for the highest possible position, and although I fell short in the election, I gained valuable knowledge and first hand experience in politics and leadership of the sort.

Lastly I am also the student president of Indian Cultural Society, here in Modesto, where we have organized multiple large scale events at the Gallo Center, with over 500 people in attendance.

The show was a multicultural dance event/show inclusive of people from all backgrounds. This invaluable experience has truly given me a lot of new insight on real, and hefty leadership roles.

What other clubs and extra
curriculars are you involved
in?
Co-Founded the Model United Nations Club at my school, as well as the Speech and Debate Club.
1 of 450 boys in all of California chosen to participate in Boys and Girls State, a prestigious civic program, located in almost every state.

Involved in a intellectually challenging research paper on the judicial system.

Model United Nations delegate with 5+ years of experience, and delegated in numerous invitational world class conferences for High School Students.

Student Body President of the Indian Cultural Society.
a. How many hours a week
do you spend in these
acvies?
Aside from the Student Body President of Indian Cultural Society, these activities take a majority of my time although it is hard to give a proper estimate of hours spent as they are subject to change every week.
b. How will you priorize
your involvement in this
role?
Through proper time management, and diligent organization I plan to stay up to the task of this role if accepted, through prioritizing this commission and my city.

What do you enjoy doing
with your free me?
I thoroughly enjoy going to the gym as much as possible and boxing in my free time.

Are you able to meet the
me and travel
commitments of
approximately three to four
Yes
#5..
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hours per month that come
as a member of this
commission?
Applicant
Acknowledgement
If selected, I commit to attending all my meetings and serving diligently to represent the youth of Modesto on the Youth Commission.

Parent / Guardian
Acknowledgement
If selected, I commit to attending all my meetings and serving diligently to represent the youth of Modesto on the Youth Commission.

Email not displaying correctly? View it in your browser. #5..
- 198 -
From: [email protected]
Sent: Wednesday, August 2, 2023 1:37 PM
To: Opmize; Diane Sheatsley; Valerie Garcia
Subject: Online Form Submission #39969 for Boards, Commissions & Commiees Applicaon
External Email: Please use caution when clicking links and/or opening attachments.

Apply To: Youth Commission
First Name Lolamaya
Last Name Evans
Date of Birth
School
Grade
Address
City modesto
State california
Zip Code
Home Phone
Work Phone
Email Address
Occupaon
Employer / Business
Business Address
#5..
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City
State
Zip Code
Educaon
(Section Break)
Qualifications:

Are you enrolled full-me in
high school?
Yes
Modesto Resident
Requirement
I understand that I must be a Modesto resident in order to apply for this committee or commission.

What is it about this
posion that interests you?
Over the past year I saw what was possible to do through the youth commission. Although we didn't complete as many things as I believe we hoped for, I think that this position has the capacity to do a lot. I was one of the students who went to the schools to talk to kids and it was super cool to see how interested they were and how they reacted to different
information. I would love to continue on this commission to continue to learn and try to help the community.

What qualies, experience,
and experse would you
bring to it?
I bring a lot of creativity and outside opinions and perspective. I am very connected to my school and community, which
continues to make me more conscious of how decisions affect the community. I am very good at event planning, and publicity. (Section Break)
Demographics
City of Modesto invites all applicants to voluntarily self-identify their gender, race/ethnicity, veteran status and disability. Submission of this information is voluntary and refusal to provide will not affect the application process. The information will be kept confidential and will only be used in accordance with the provisions of applicable laws, executive orders and regulations, including those that require the information to be summarized and reported to the federal government for civil rights enforcement.
#5..
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Gender
Ethnicity
Are you currently, or have
you ever, served in the
Armed Forces?
Do you consider yourself
disabled?
(Section Break)
Why do you want to serve
on the Youth Commission?
I am very passionate about community service and helping others, especially people in lower socio-econimic areas who may not have exposure to the same things other children have.

If its a female in a leadership role, a person of color in a leadership role, or just someone who understands the struggle of feeling unseen. I feel that this gives me the opportunity to create lasting change in my community.

What do you see as the
primary issues currently
impacng youth in our
community?
I feel like there is a lack of overall representation and exposure.

Having stronger connections to leaders of color will help the community immensely. I think that the majority of youth do not know what or who is available to help them.

What skills and talents will
you bring to the
Commission?
I think I would bring a lot of different ideas to the commission because of the different things that I do. I feel like I would get alot of people to join our events or activities. I am very good with kids and have little sisters to see what's relevant even on an elementary school level. And I would bring a very good energy to the room, and am good at keeping people engaged.

What other clubs and extra
curriculars are you involved
in?
I am captain of the modesto high cheer team, softball team, track team, performing arts academy representative, I’ve been on multiple school event planning committees. I run multiple social media accounts for the school. I am currently 1st vice president for the Central Region for the United Black Student Union of California (UBSUC), as well as Sargent of Arms for the UBSUC.
a. How many hours a week
do you spend in these
acvies?
I would say that I spend 18 hours a week total on all of my involvements.
b. How will you priorize
your involvement in this
role?
I will continue to delegate my time, stay on top of my work, commitments, and utilize my resources.

What do you enjoy doing
with your free me?
In my free time I enjoy taking care of myself. I love doing mat pilates or taking classes. I also really like reading and studying different subjects like ancient religions, genetics, or fungi. I like being creative and making things through different mediums like fiber art, acrylic, watercolor, sculpture, etc.
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Are you able to meet the
me and travel
commitments of
approximately three to four
hours per month that come
as a member of this
commission?
Yes
Applicant
Acknowledgement
If selected, I commit to attending all my meetings and serving diligently to represent the youth of Modesto on the Youth Commission.

Parent / Guardian
Acknowledgement
If selected, I commit to attending all my meetings and serving diligently to represent the youth of Modesto on the Youth Commission.

Email not displaying correctly? View it in your browser. #5..
- 203 -
From: [email protected]
Sent: Wednesday, August 2, 2023 12:25 PM
To: Opmize; Diane Sheatsley; Valerie Garcia
Subject: Online Form Submission #39967 for Boards, Commissions & Commiees Applicaon
External Email: Please use caution when clicking links and/or opening attachments.

Apply To: Youth Commission
First Name Jossfin
Last Name Garza
Date of Birth
School
Grade
Address
City Modesto
State California
Zip Code
Home Phone
Work Phone
Email Address
Occupaon
Employer / Business
Business Address
#5..
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City
State
Zip Code
Educaon
(Section Break)
Qualifications:

Are you enrolled full-me in
high school?
Yes
Modesto Resident
Requirement
I understand that I must be a Modesto resident in order to apply for this committee or commission.

Are you a Modesto
resident?
Yes
If yes, what was the date of
residency?
Are you a registered voter
in the City of Modesto?
No
Are you a registered voter
in Stanislaus County?
No
Are you now or have you
ever been employed by the
City of Modesto?
No
Inclusive dates: Field not completed.
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Do you have relaves or a
member of your household
who are employed by the
City of Modesto, or who are
currently serving on the City
Council, or who are Board
members or
Commissioners?
No
List relevant employment,
training, and experience,
cerficates of training,
licenses, and professional
registraon.
• youth commission 2022-2023
• speech and debate team
•mock trial team
•Parks Youth Committee of Tuolumne River Trust
•Model UN
How did you learn about
the board for which you are
applying?
Other (Please specify)
If other, please specify: I was previously on it.

Describe your involvement
in community acvies and
civic organizaons. (Do not
list parsan polical
pares.)
From volunteering at Love Modesto to being apart of the youth commission last year, my passion for Modesto and being able to help it grew strong. The Youth Commission opened me up to so many more opportunities to help my community and led me to finding another youth committee that worked on helping better Modesto( Parks Youth Committee).

What is it about this
posion that interests you?
Last year, I walked into the position of a youth commission not certain with my involvement in the city and who I was to my hometown. During my youth commission journey last year I attended every event we organized besides 1 parade. At these events, my faith in humanity was restored when I saw what good people did to help each other and their homes. The Youth Commission inspired me to be a better person than I was before. I can only hope that I will be able to impact my community the same amount the youth commission has forever impacted me.

What qualies, experience,
and experse would you
bring to it?
Within being a past youth commissioner, I found leadership in myself in my time away from the commission. I started working on the Parks Youth Committee and found leadership positions to take a chance on. I would not only bring past experience with the youth commission but also I would be happy to lead
something that changed me so much. Not only that but I would continue attending every single Youth Commission event. (Section Break)
Demographics
City of Modesto invites all applicants to voluntarily self-identify their gender, race/ethnicity, veteran status and disability. Submission of this information is voluntary and refusal to provide will not affect the application process. The information will be kept confidential and will only be used in accordance with the #5..
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provisions of applicable laws, executive orders and regulations, including those that require the information to be summarized and reported to the federal government for civil rights enforcement.

Gender
Ethnicity
Are you currently, or have
you ever, served in the
Armed Forces?
Do you consider yourself
disabled?
(Section Break)
Why do you want to serve
on the Youth Commission?
Being a member of the 2022-2023 Youth Commission changed me for the better. It awakened a new passion for my community and helped me learn different ways I could leave a mark on the place that raised me. I recall leaving the youth summit the youth commission attended last year with the biggest smile on my face seeing the good people had done for humanity. The youth commission has done wonders for me and so this year I must do wonders for it back.

What do you see as the
primary issues currently
impacng youth in our
community?
Modesto isn’t perfect, no city is however, as a youth
commissioner I would want to bring more acknowledgement to the lack of community involvement and proper education
resources. I would want to shine a light on not only providing more resources for teens to have but also having teens be a resource in their own community.

What skills and talents will
you bring to the
Commission?
With a passion for reading, writing, leadership, and public speaking, I would be able to bring these skills, past experience in the youth commission, and a new found skill in data
collection from the Parks Youth Committee.

What other clubs and extra
curriculars are you involved
in?
I am involved in Speech and Debate, Mock trial, Model UN, Parks Youth Commitee, and some smaller school clubs.
a. How many hours a week
do you spend in these
acvies?
Although most are in school hours, PYC takes up roughly an hour and a half every Monday and mock trial has roughly two practices a week starting in late fall.
b. How will you priorize
your involvement in this
role?
Within being a youth commissioner last year, I worked my schedule around it so it could fit perfectly. It is beyond safe to say that Youth Commission has and always will be a top priority to me.

What do you enjoy doing
with your free me?
I enjoy reading, writing, playing guitar, cooking, spending time with loved ones and friends, helping my community, connecting #5..
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with members of my community, and listening to music in my free time.

Parent / Guardian
Acknowledgement
If selected, I commit to attending all my meetings and serving diligently to represent the youth of Modesto on the Youth Commission.

Email not displaying correctly? View it in your browser. #5..
- 208 -
From: [email protected]
Sent: Friday, August 18, 2023 4:13 PM
To: Opmize; Diane Sheatsley; Valerie Garcia
Subject: Online Form Submission #40200 for Boards, Commissions & Commiees Applicaon
External Email: Please use caution when clicking links and/or opening attachments.

Apply To: Youth Commission
First Name Edith
Last Name Hughes
Date of Birth
School
Grade
Address
City Modesto
State California
Zip Code
Home Phone
Work Phone
Email Address
Occupaon
Employer / Business
Business Address
#5..
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City
State
Zip Code
Educaon
(Section Break)
Qualifications:

Are you enrolled full-me in
high school?
Yes
Modesto Resident
Requirement
I understand that I must be a Modesto resident in order to apply for this committee or commission.

Field not completed.

How did you learn about
the board for which you are
applying?
Other (Please specify)
If other, please specify: Friend's reccommendation
Describe your involvement
in community acvies and
civic organizaons. (Do not
list parsan polical
pares.)
I participate in local river and park cleanups with the Tuolumne River Trust and my school's environment club, which I am part of. I also have to co-design the Stanislaus Youth Empowerment blue print, which was published in 2021. This project is a stratedgy and sustainability plan to ensure youth empowerment builds momentum, funding, and success.

What is it about this
posion that interests you?
Considering I have an interest in creating more opportunities for the youth and want to be more civically engaged in Modesto, this position would be a good way for me to meet more people with similar aspirations and do more for the community.

What qualies, experience,
and experse would you
bring to it?
I have past experience volunteering for youth empowerment, and can work with other people well. I love to bounce ideas off of others and try my hardest to make other people feel like their opinions matter and should be considered.
(Section Break)
Demographics
City of Modesto invites all applicants to voluntarily self-identify their gender, race/ethnicity, veteran status and disability. Submission of this information is voluntary and refusal to provide will not affect the application process. The information will be kept confidential and will only be used in accordance with the provisions of applicable laws, executive orders and regulations, including those that require the information to be summarized and reported to the federal government for civil rights enforcement.

Gender
Ethnicity
#5..
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Are you currently, or have
you ever, served in the
Armed Forces?
Do you consider yourself
disabled?
(Section Break)
Why do you want to serve
on the Youth Commission?
I want to serve in the Youth Commission because having the opportunity to be more civically engaged is important. As a young person, I want to be able to learn more about the City of Modesto and become more involved in representing the youth here. I've always been interested in policy and the well-being of others, so being in this commission will be a door opening to being more civically engaged.

What do you see as the
primary issues currently
impacng youth in our
community?
I notice that many young people, specifically in Stanislaus County, struggle with their mental health. Almost every person I talk to has has some experiences some form of not feeling worthy or stressed out about anything, ranging from school to family relationships.

What skills and talents will
you bring to the
Commission?
I am an excellent communicator and team-worker. I work well with others and love to brainstorm/come up with ideas with people. I get along with everyone and can work with anyone, regardless of the task involved.

What other clubs and extra
curriculars are you involved
in?
I am involved in leadership at my school. My role is the senior class vice president and I am currently leading a new project at my school aimed at making the entire student body feel
recognized, which is to celebrate everyone's birthday. I am the captain of the varsity water polo team, and have been playing varsity since my freshman year. I also play violin in the Modesto Symphony Youth Orchestra outside of school.
a. How many hours a week
do you spend in these
acvies?
at least 10 hours per week
b. How will you priorize
your involvement in this
role?
I will make sure that I have plenty of time to work on what needs to be done by working in advance on any other tasks.

What do you enjoy doing
with your free me?
I enjoy playing fiddle/bluegrass music on my violin, hanging out with my friends, and skiing in the winter.

Are you able to meet the
me and travel
commitments of
approximately three to four
hours per month that come
as a member of this
commission?
Yes
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Applicant
Acknowledgement
If selected, I commit to attending all my meetings and serving diligently to represent the youth of Modesto on the Youth Commission.

Parent / Guardian
Acknowledgement
If selected, I commit to attending all my meetings and serving diligently to represent the youth of Modesto on the Youth Commission.

Email not displaying correctly? View it in your browser. #5..
- 213 -
From: [email protected]
Sent: Monday, August 14, 2023 8:51 PM
To: Opmize; Diane Sheatsley; Valerie Garcia
Subject: Online Form Submission #40129 for Boards, Commissions & Commiees Applicaon
External Email: Please use caution when clicking links and/or opening attachments.

Apply To: Youth Commission
First Name Tad
Last Name Jimenez
Date of Birth
School
Grade
Address
City Modesto
State California
Zip Code
Home Phone
Work Phone
Email Address
Occupaon
Employer / Business
Business Address
#5..
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City
State
Zip Code
Educaon
(Section Break)
Qualifications:

Are you enrolled full-me in
high school?
Yes
Modesto Resident
Requirement
I understand that I must be a Modesto resident in order to apply for this committee or commission.

N/A
How did you learn about
the board for which you are
applying?
Other (Please specify)
If other, please specify: I was referred by a friend.

Describe your involvement
in community acvies and
civic organizaons. (Do not
list parsan polical
pares.)
Most recently, I was a part of high school student-lead project to create goods for the homeless.

What is it about this
posion that interests you?
Being apart of the community
What qualies, experience,
and experse would you
bring to it?
I am interested in Cyber Security. I love to create systems and optimize things that I am apart of.
(Section Break)
Demographics
City of Modesto invites all applicants to voluntarily self-identify their gender, race/ethnicity, veteran status and disability. Submission of this information is voluntary and refusal to provide will not affect the application process. The information will be kept confidential and will only be used in accordance with the provisions of applicable laws, executive orders and regulations, including those that require the information to be summarized and reported to the federal government for civil rights enforcement.

Gender
Ethnicity
Are you currently, or hav
you ever, served in the
Armed Forces?
#5..
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Do you consider yourself
disabled?
(Section Break)
Why do you want to serve
on the Youth Commission?
I would like to be more apart of my community and be here to support it. I love systems; and being able to see how a highfunctioning council like this would enthrall me. I would also like to take a higher role in my community.

What do you see as the
primary issues currently
impacng youth in our
community?
Mental Health. Although it's hard to see, so many people and fellow youth are suffering due to the strain on their brain in this growing world. Instagram, TikTok, even high school, are negatively affecting people minds. Instagram makes people compare their lives to others and plants a seed that they don't have worth. Everybody has worth no matter what. TikTok, and by extension, it's short form content creates a dopamine hungry, instant-gratification-denying monster of a brain. It lowers people's critical thinking skills and makes it harder to go through our lives. I doubt there is a way to completely fix it, but if things outside of social media is offered, it will at least help the problem.

What skills and talents will
you bring to the
Commission?
I am a critical thinker and I love to create systems and optimize things that I am apart of.

What other clubs and extra
curriculars are you involved
in?
Boy Scouts
Tech Club
Water Polo
a. How many hours a week
do you spend in these
acvies?
5-6
b. How will you priorize
your involvement in this
role?
This will be the top of my priories. I understand that I will be working with high-up people and I understand that they will expect a lot from me.

What do you enjoy doing
with your free me?
In all honesty, I love to study and I love to meet new people.

Studying, although I absolutely despised it, has become one of my go to things when I happen to have free time on my hands.

It's the part of optimizing myself that I love. Learning new things and working toward a goal, through studying, makes me happy.

Meeting new people has always been an interest of mine. If I could, I would love to meet everyone on planet earth. Each and every person has their own experiences and wisdom. No
matter if it's an old man you some how came across, or an average Joe, they will have their own opinions, thoughts, and lives.

Are you able to meet the
me and travel
commitments of
approximately three to four
Yes
#5..
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hours per month that come
as a member of this
commission?
Applicant
Acknowledgement
If selected, I commit to attending all my meetings and serving diligently to represent the youth of Modesto on the Youth Commission.

Parent / Guardian
Acknowledgement
If selected, I commit to attending all my meetings and serving diligently to represent the youth of Modesto on the Youth Commission.

Email not displaying correctly? View it in your browser. #5..
- 218 -
From: [email protected]
Sent: Friday, August 18, 2023 4:49 PM
To: Opmize; Diane Sheatsley; Valerie Garcia
Subject: Online Form Submission #40202 for Boards, Commissions & Commiees Applicaon
External Email: Please use caution when clicking links and/or opening attachments.

Apply To: Youth Commission
First Name Abigail
Last Name Manzano
Date of Birth
School
Grade
Address
City Modesto
State CA
Zip Code
Home Phone
Work Phone
Email Address
Occupaon
Employer / Business
Business Address
#5..
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City
State
Zip Code
Educaon
(Section Break)
Qualifications:

Are you enrolled full-me in
high school?
Yes
Modesto Resident
Requirement
I understand that I must be a Modesto resident in order to apply for this committee or commission.

As I am still a full-time student in high school, I do not have much formal work experience, however I regularly volunteer at the Red Cross and Love Modesto events. I also have a
Sustainability Leadership certification and plan park and river clean-ups throughout the year to serve our community.

How did you learn about
the board for which you are
applying?
Other (Please specify)
If other, please specify: Instagram
Describe your involvement
in community acvies and
civic organizaons. (Do not
list parsan polical
pares.)
I am greatly involved in my school's community as I am the president of the Environmental Club, the Senior Class
Representative and participate in many different clubs on campus. I also volunteer my time at the American Red Cross and attend the Cal Center Green Focus program.

What is it about this
posion that interests you?
The Youth Commission interests me because it is the best way for the youth in our community to have a voice in what
decisions are made. I am very interested in the idea of working with a small group of individuals from across the city and from different high schools, so that I can hear and voice their opinions and thoughts about Modesto and expand my own. I believe that through this Commission I will be able to assist in enacting real change and inspiring the youth to become more involved in our community.

What qualies, experience,
and experse would you
bring to it?
I believe that I can bring my organization and public speaking to this Commission, as I am able to handle the logistics of outreach and volunteer events that we launch to the public. I will be able to organize different jobs for each commissioner and help come up with new ideas for what the Commission will focus on for the term. Furthermore, I believe that I can use my public speaking skills to effectively communicate with other commissioners and speak with the youth of our city during outreach events. I can also effectively speak to the City Council when doing our term review presentation and voice not only my opinions and ideas but the city's youth. Lastly, I will be able to bring my own experiences as a former Youth Commissioner from the last term, to this next term if appointed as I am familiar with how the Commission is run and led and can propose new ideas that were not able to executed last term, in order to help the Commission have a running start.
#5..
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(Section Break)
Demographics
City of Modesto invites all applicants to voluntarily self-identify their gender, race/ethnicity, veteran status and disability. Submission of this information is voluntary and refusal to provide will not affect the application process. The information will be kept confidential and will only be used in accordance with the provisions of applicable laws, executive orders and regulations, including those that require the information to be summarized and reported to the federal government for civil rights enforcement.

Gender
Ethnicity
Are you currently, or have
you ever, served in the
Armed Forces?
Do you consider yourself
disabled?
(Section Break)
Why do you want to serve
on the Youth Commission?
After serving as a commissioner on the Youth Commission last year, I learned an abundance of information about my
community and the issues facing our youth which is why I would love to continue to serve and make a difference. I want to continue to expand the Youth Commission and work to
implement more volunteer and outreach events to get the word out about what the Youth Commission does and inspire other youth to become more involved in their community. I also want to be able to represent the youth in Modesto and listen to what they have to say about our city and their opinions about what policies or events they want to see implemented. I hope that by serving on this Commission I am able to be a voice for the youth and help address their opinions and issues to make Modesto a place to come back to.

What do you see as the
primary issues currently
impacng youth in our
community?
The primary issues impacting the youth in our community is definitely lack of mental health support and lack of information about our community. Many kids my age suffer from mental health issues as they feel isolated and unheard and I have found that there are barely any resources to help and support them. I want to be able to implement more resources and events targeting mental health support and helping to uplift the youth of Modesto. Furthermore, I have found that there is a big disconnect between the youth and the city in which they reside in as there are not many opportunities for the youth to learn about what Modesto has to offer. Many of the people my age have no idea how the City Council works or how many
opportunities and events this city has to offer, causing them to #5..
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want to leave and find a home somewhere else. I hope that through my role as a Youth Commissioner, I can work to
implement more initiatives to connect the youth to this city so that they can become strong leaders and help this city grow.

What skills and talents will
you bring to the
Commission?
I believe that communication, collaboration and initiative are very important skills that I can bring to this Commission. If I am appointed to this role, I will communicate not only with my fellow commissioners about important ideas in our meetings but with the youth in our community. I am able to clearly
communicate with people my own age and I will be able to gain their opinions and thoughts about what needs to be changed and improved in the City of Modesto which I can bring up during my term. I can also collaborate with others, such as the other commissioners, to make sure that we are making the right decisions to help our city's youth and we are the most effective with our term. Lastly, I believe that I can truly show initiative in this position if chosen, making sure to voice my opinions and ideas for new outreach ideas and activities.

What other clubs and extra
curriculars are you involved
in?
I am currently president of both the Modesto High School Environmental Club and Women Empowerment Club and serve as the Senior Class Representative while being a part of the ASB Leadership class. In addition, I participate in Mock Trial, Science Olympiad, the National Alliance on Mental Health club and the Leadership Academy. I also volunteer at the Red Cross regularly and during the spring, I am part of the Modesto High School Varsity Swim team.
a. How many hours a week
do you spend in these
acvies?
7 b. How will you priorize
your involvement in this
role?
I will make sure to place the Youth Commission as my top priority and manage my time so that I can properly focus on both this Commission and my other responsibilities.

What do you enjoy doing
with your free me?
In my free time, I enjoy sleeping and going out with my friends, especially around Modesto as there are so many restaurants to eat at and events to attend. My personal favorite restaurant is FoodFix and I really enjoy going to the Modesto Farmer's Market and attending DoMo First Fridays. I also enjoy
swimming at the beach or in the pool and snowboarding in the winter.

Parent / Guardian
Acknowledgement
If selected, I commit to attending all my meetings and serving diligently to represent the youth of Modesto on the Youth Commission.

Email not displaying correctly? View it in your browser. #5..
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From: [email protected]
Sent: Tuesday, August 1, 2023 1:56 PM
To: Opmize; Diane Sheatsley; Valerie Garcia
Subject: Online Form Submission #39949 for Boards, Commissions & Commiees Applicaon
External Email: Please use caution when clicking links and/or opening attachments.

Apply To: Youth Commission
First Name Taylor
Last Name McGuire
Date of Birth
School
Grade
Address
City Modesto
State CA
Zip Code
Home Phone
Work Phone
Email Address
Occupaon
Employer / Business
Business Address
#5..
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City
State
Zip Code
Educaon
(Section Break)
Qualifications:

Are you enrolled full-me in
high school?
Yes
Modesto Resident
Requirement
I understand that I must be a Modesto resident in order to apply for this committee or commission.

Field not completed.

How did you learn about
the board for which you are
applying?
Other (Please specify)
If other, please specify: Some people I know recommended me for the program Describe your involvement
in community acvies and
civic organizaons. (Do not
list parsan polical
pares.)
I am currently in Tuolumne River Trust's park youth committee which allows me to reach and connect with my community to help bring the much needed change to local parks, especially parks in West Modesto. I have also been involved in leadership for 6 years, this upcoming school year will be my 7th, which provides me in ways to notice problems in smaller communities and provide my time and skills to help change and fix the problems and issues that I can impact.

What is it about this
posion that interests you?
I am already involved in the community, but I would like to do more. I want to be able to look back on my high school
experience and say I helped to do my part in the community, which would bring me personal joy. From what I have heard and read, this program sounds like an amazing way to help out the youth in Modesto, which is important since they are our future. They are our future doctors, lawyers, artists, and most importantly, leaders.

What qualies, experience,
and experse would you
bring to it?
I would bring my experiences and knowledge I have gain from my past community involvement, leadership and the park youth program, along with my abilities I have gained from life. I am a very comfortable in public speaking, allowing me to feel comfortable and in my element at meetings and presentations, along with everyday situations in the world.
(Section Break)
Demographics
City of Modesto invites all applicants to voluntarily self-identify their gender, race/ethnicity, veteran status and disability. Submission of this information is voluntary and refusal to provide will not affect the application process. The information will be kept confidential and will only be used in accordance with the provisions of applicable laws, executive orders and regulations, including those that #5..
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require the information to be summarized and reported to the federal government for civil rights enforcement.

Gender
Ethnicity
Are you currently, or have
you ever, served in the
Armed Forces?
Do you consider yourself
disabled?
(Section Break)
Why do you want to serve
on the Youth Commission?
I heard about this program from my friend who was previously on it and was immediately interested. Our youth is our future, and I would love to do anything possible, being a teen myself, to help my peers out. I also want to become more aware of the challenges that not only youth face in Modesto, but also everywhere. By being in the program and hearing and seeing other people's stories, I feel like it will better myself as a human and help my be able to make an impact that I seek to do on the community around me.

What do you see as the
primary issues currently
impacng youth in our
community?
Our youth currently is pressured with the problems adults and young adults would normally face, removing them from being able to truly experience their youth. In the long run, this affects their mental health, resulting in them not truly being able to live the comfortable and happy life, also known as the American dream, when they are older. Our youth today shouldn't have to worry, they should be able to enjoy the presence and enjoy their youth. If I am able to help accomplish this even just a little, it would bring me immense amount of joy.

What skills and talents will
you bring to the
Commission?
I am a great public speaker. Ever since a young age I have participated in public speaking which has not only helped me speak in meetings and presentation, but also in just daily life conversations. I also enjoy working with numbers and
technology, allowing me to be able to create and present different forms of media.

What other clubs and extra
curriculars are you involved
in?
I am currently involved in Tuolumne River Trust's park youth committee, along with being on my seventh year of leadership, second year of wrestling, and being involved in other school sanctioned clubs like CSF.
a. How many hours a week
do you spend in these
acvies?
Most likely around 8+ hours
b. How will you priorize
your involvement in this
I have gotten more comfortable with prioritizing and managing my time, and since my interest is strong for this program, I #5..
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role? would have no trouble dedicating the time needed to this.

What do you enjoy doing
with your free me?
In my free time I love reading. Ever since a young age I have been emerged in reading and it provides a fun escape from my everyday life by connecting and relating to the characters in the books. I am also a huge sports fan. I love watching sports games with my family and love attending them in person even more.

Parent / Guardian
Acknowledgement
If selected, I commit to attending all my meetings and serving diligently to represent the youth of Modesto on the Youth Commission.

Email not displaying correctly? View it in your browser. #5..
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From: [email protected]
Sent: Tuesday, August 8, 2023 8:02 AM
To: Opmize; Diane Sheatsley; Valerie Garcia
Subject: Online Form Submission #40038 for Boards, Commissions & Commiees Applicaon
External Email: Please use caution when clicking links and/or opening attachments.

Apply To: Youth Commission
First Name Hamza
Last Name Modan
Date of Birth
School
Grade
Address
City Modesto
State CALIFORNIA
Zip Code
Home Phone
Work Phone
Email Address
Occupaon
Employer / Business
Business Address
#5..
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City
State
Zip Code
Educaon
(Section Break)
Qualifications:

Are you enrolled full-me in
high school?
Yes
Modesto Resident
Requirement
I understand that I must be a Modesto resident in order to apply for this committee or commission.

Do you have relaves or a
member of your household
who are employed by the
City of Modesto, or who are
currently serving on the City
Council, or who are Board
members or
Commissioners?
No
List relevant employment,
training, and experience,
cerficates of training,
licenses, and professional
registraon.
- Memorial Medical Health Center Privacy and Medical Training - Sutter Health @ 600 Coffee Privacy and Medical Training - Treasurer of the NAMI Alliance Club at Enochs
- Key Club Community Service Experience; We partnered with other volunteer groups to organize food drives
- Neurodiversity Training: I was able to be certified by the Stanford Neurodiversity Project in providing accommodations for the neurodiverse
- Jessica’s House Friend: A group director position, requiring empathy and stability when discussing the loss of a loved one How did you learn about
the board for which you are
applying?
Place of Employment
Describe your involvement
in community acvies and
civic organizaons. (Do not
list parsan polical
pares.)
- Memorial Medical Health Center Privacy and Medical Training - Sutter Health @ 600 Coffee Privacy and Medical Training - Treasurer of the NAMI Alliance Club at Enochs
- Key Club Community Service Experience; We partnered with other volunteer groups to organize food drives
- Neurodiversity Training: I was able to be certified by the Stanford Neurodiversity Project in providing accommodations for the neurodiverse
- Jessica’s House Friend: A group director position, requiring empathy and stability when discussing the loss of a loved one What is it about this
posion that interests you?
I truly believe that there is no other experience that can so effectively and efficiently convey student voices across the city.

I want to contribute to the youth of the city as I understand and survey my peers and what they struggle with. Furthermore, this is a way to justify the presence I have in volunteering and civic participation. I would like to be able to connect with the community directly, and then return the lessons that I have learned to City Government as a Commission and hopefully, Chair.

What qualies, experience,
and experse would you
bring to it?
A motif in my life up to this point has been the importance of experience and learning, and I would bring the experience and learning that I have acquired from hundreds of hours of volunteering with patients, interacting with people who are hurt, and designing solutions for individuals who need
accommodations, but do not know how or what to receive. #5..
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I would love to become a leader of the Youth Commission as I believe that by attaining the Chair Position, I can reflect my ideas back efficiently and effectively through communication.

I would bring compassion and consistency, perseverance and politeness, and initiative and dedication across all assignments.

Furthermore, a highly powerful quality that I treasure and concentrate my attention on is honesty. Relations are built in trust and I excel in situations where trust is involved. (Section Break)
Demographics
City of Modesto invites all applicants to voluntarily self-identify their gender, race/ethnicity, veteran status and disability. Submission of this information is voluntary and refusal to provide will not affect the application process. The information will be kept confidential and will only be used in accordance with the provisions of applicable laws, executive orders and regulations, including those that require the information to be summarized and reported to the federal government for civil rights enforcement.

Gender
Ethnicity
Are you currently, or have
you ever, served in the
Armed Forces?
Do you consider yourself
disabled?
(Section Break)
Why do you want to serve
on the Youth Commission?
Having previously served on the Youth Commission, I was able to form so many connections and make tangible changes
throughout City Government. I realized that it was my passion to lead, delegate, and hold responsibility throughout our esteemed group. As a result, I strived not to miss any event in which I could make a difference. The StanYEA Youth Summit was one of these opportunities; the Love Modesto Project was another; the opportunity to go to schools and teach children about our government was another; and walking the Banner of the Christmas Lights Parade in winter under the battering rain was one of the best moments in my life.

Alongside the initiative and leadership component, I truly believe that this is an extraordinarily significant opportunity to help others throughout the city.

As a compassionate individual with a diverse and consistent involvement across the community, I constantly strive to #5..
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interact with new people. I find that with every smile I send, dozens of smiles reverberate back to me during each class.

What do you see as the
primary issues currently
impacng youth in our
community?
A plethora of confusion and mental health issues continuously bombard our youth. I find that the innocence of childhood is being interrupted by losses, bullying, and a lack of support in forming an identity. There are hardly any positive messages beyond generic posters that communicate compassion to an individual and their personal concerns. Across all my classes, I see anxiety overpowering each student, to the point that they become desensitized to the world.

There is also a lack of effort made to accommodate minorities such as the neurodiverse. Parks can hardly accommodate
neurodiverse individuals, and school classrooms have few accommodations prepared to help individuals with autism, ADHD, or dyslexia, as well as other physical disabilities.

With that in mind, I have set out to establish connections between myself and the respective authorities on these
matters. I am excited to bring this experience and leadership to the Youth Commission!
What skills and talents will
you bring to the
Commission?
As the captain of my High School Speech and Debate team, I love expressing my concerns in any way possible, most often verbally. I will bring the capacity to connect, network, and communicate on behalf of the commission in order to execute my role effectively. As an example, new volunteers at the Memorial Medical Center are typically referred to me when they begin their orientation. The trust my manager places in me and my communication skills is a trust that I uphold, as well as continue to demonstrate.

What other clubs and extra
curriculars are you involved
in?
In terms of community involvement, I am a volunteer at the Memorial Medical Center and an Intern at the Sutter Health Clinic at 600 Coffee. I also serve as a group director for Jessica’s House, a non-profit organization intended to provide support systems to families who have lost loved ones and close ones. In addition, I am the treasurer of the NAMI Mental Health Alliance Club at Enochs High School. My passion for mental health increased when I took the Stanford Neurodiversity Project Course. During this two-week interactive workshop, professors and doctors demonstrated methods of design that were intended to provide accommodations to the neurodiverse.

In terms of academic exploration, I am the captain of my school’s Science Olympiad team, paving the way for students to excel in their respective events. I am also the vice-captain of the Speech and Debate team of my high school.
#5..
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Finally, in terms of recreation, I am the starting right back for my soccer team. I find that I can make tangible contributions to the soccer pitch while preserving my health. It is truly one of my most exciting past times.
a. How many hours a week
do you spend in these
acvies?
I spend 20 hours a week participating in all my activities.

However, Youth Commission events and meetings have always taken precedence over any other activities.
b. How will you priorize
your involvement in this
role?
As I dabble in civic exercises across the county, I have curated a sense of punctuality. I am willing to demonstrate my time management thoroughly throughout my yearly tenure. It is my strong conviction that community service is a role of integrity. I uphold this and consequently prioritize my assignments in the role first. To reiterate, trust is the basis of all my endeavors.

What do you enjoy doing
with your free me?
I enjoy both reading and playing soccer. I believe both of these test and accelerate the development of mind and body and actively participate in each of these every day.

Parent / Guardian
Acknowledgement
If selected, I commit to attending all my meetings and serving diligently to represent the youth of Modesto on the Youth Commission.

Email not displaying correctly? View it in your browser. #5..
- 235 -
From: [email protected]
Sent: Monday, August 7, 2023 11:08 PM
To: Opmize; Diane Sheatsley; Valerie Garcia
Subject: Online Form Submission #40036 for Boards, Commissions & Commiees Applicaon
External Email: Please use caution when clicking links and/or opening attachments.

Apply To: Youth Commission
First Name Hasan
Last Name Modan
Date of Birth
School
Grade
Address
City Modesto
State California
Zip Code
Home Phone
Work Phone
Email Address
Occupaon
Employer / Business
Business Address
#5..
- 236 -
City
State
Zip Code
Educaon
(Section Break)
Qualifications:

Are you enrolled full-me in
high school?
Yes
Modesto Resident
Requirement
I understand that I must be a Modesto resident in order to apply for this committee or commission.

I currently do not have any family member employed by the City of Modesto, or who are currently serving on the City Council.

How did you learn about
the board for which you are
applying?
Other (Please specify)
If other, please specify: My brother, Hamza Modan, served on the Youth Commission for the school year 2022-23 and that inspired me to pursue the same.

Describe your involvement
in community acvies and
civic organizaons. (Do not
list parsan polical
pares.)
I have participated in Love Modesto projects through my local mosque, the Islamic Center of Modesto.

I have served on PHASTjv, through junior high school, an organization serving to educate youth on the dangers of tobacco and other substance abuse.

I volunteered at the Modesto Marathon and the Peace Officer Memorial Run for the past two years.

In Junior High, I also volunteered at my local elementary school, coaching their Science Olympiad team.

I have been serving as a volunteer at Sutter Health Medical Foundation, and participated in assisting the organizers at a Riverbank Health Fair, and an Asthma convention.

I have been a member of the California Junior Scholarship Federation.

All of these experiences have one thing in common, to serve the community, to educate, expose, and empower the
communities, and be a voice, especially for the vulnerable youth of the community. I realize, by taking an active role in serving my community, the city council is the next step in expanding my passion.

What is it about this
posion that interests you?
I realized that I have a passion to serve the community. While I have had the opportunity to volunteer at local school and community level events, I would like to expand it to serve youth across the city. I would like to take my passion to the next level, by serving the community, especially the Youth across the city. I have several projects in mind, such as a tutoring service for vulnerable youth, working on the local food banks, and more importantly, spreading sport opportunities to the vulnerable youth of the community, providing an outlet and support system, away from gangs and other dangers.
#5..
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What qualies, experience,
and experse would you
bring to it?
I believe my best qualities and perseverance and compassion, and that suits the work of a Youth Commissioner. I believe in working towards my goals and dreams of empowering
marginalized youth through expanding educational
oppurtunities and planning sport-based events. These are challenging tasks, and require a lot of planning and organizing, and with my perseverance and compassion, and the support of the city council, I am already planning educational
oppurtunities, conferences, and events which are events organized by the youth, for the youth.
(Section Break)
Demographics
City of Modesto invites all applicants to voluntarily self-identify their gender, race/ethnicity, veteran status and disability. Submission of this information is voluntary and refusal to provide will not affect the application process. The information will be kept confidential and will only be used in accordance with the provisions of applicable laws, executive orders and regulations, including those that require the information to be summarized and reported to the federal government for civil rights enforcement.

Gender
Ethnicity
Are you currently, or have
you ever, served in the
Armed Forces?
Do you consider yourself
disabled?
(Section Break)
Why do you want to serve
on the Youth Commission?
My passion for community service started in the third grade, while participating in Love Modesto events. These events made an impression on me that simple community service, by an individual, can have far-fetched impacts on the whole
community and its health. This led to my involvement in schoolbased community service projects. All the activities I have done over the years center around working with the communities.

Serving on the Youth Commission provides a wide platform that reaches beyond just a school level or just my local mosque. I feel it's valuable to give my perspective
What do you see as the
primary issues currently
impacng youth in our
community?
Our mental health crisis is the most challenging post-covid reality for majority of youth in the Stanislaus County. With the lack of parental guidance in vulnerable communities, youth depend on, often dangerous, support systems, and can be trapped into a gang or drug environment. Expanding
educational oppurtunities via a robust peer support system, which involves youth who they can look up to for support and #5..
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encouragement, and rely on for emotional and logistical support, is essential in rebuilding these vulnerable youth populations.

What skills and talents will
you bring to the
Commission?
My passion to connect with the youth, and understand them, are key elements. Communication with the youth, and
understanding their struggles, is my biggest skill set. I have come across youth who had troubled childhood and difficult households, where they were able to connect with me
instantaneously and it helped them open their communication barrier.I have been involved in tutoring at the school levels, which can be used in a community setting.

What other clubs and extra
curriculars are you involved
in?
I run for my high school cross country team, and volunteer at Sutter Gould Medical Foundation every Wednesday after
school. Later in the school year, I will be applying for CSF, the California Scholarship Federation.
a. How many hours a week
do you spend in these
acvies?
7-8 hours a week
b. How will you priorize
your involvement in this
role?
Aside from my school schedule, I have a very open schedule most afternoons that will allow me to prioritize my involvement as a Youth Commissioner.

What do you enjoy doing
with your free me?
I have a passion for running, and I value spending my time with youth in my community. Cross country gives me a platform to meet new people, from different communities and schools, and communication.

Parent / Guardian
Acknowledgement
If selected, I commit to attending all my meetings and serving diligently to represent the youth of Modesto on the Youth Commission.

Email not displaying correctly? View it in your browser. #5..
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From: [email protected]
Sent: Tuesday, August 1, 2023 4:03 PM
To: Opmize; Diane Sheatsley; Valerie Garcia
Subject: Online Form Submission #39955 for Boards, Commissions & Commiees Applicaon
External Email: Please use caution when clicking links and/or opening attachments.

Apply To: Youth Commission
First Name Martin
Last Name Montez
Date of Birth
School
Grade
Address
City Modesto
State CA
Zip Code
Home Phone
Work Phone
Email Address
Occupaon
Employer / Business
Business Address
#5..
- 241 -
City
State
Zip Code
Educaon
(Section Break)
Qualifications:

Are you enrolled full-me in
high school?
Yes
Modesto Resident
Requirement
I understand that I must be a Modesto resident in order to apply for this committee or commission.

Are you a Modesto
resident?
Yes
If yes, what was the date of
residency?
Are you a registered voter
in the City of Modesto?
No
Are you a registered voter
in Stanislaus County?
No
Are you now or have you
ever been employed by the
City of Modesto?
No
Inclusive dates: Field not completed.
#5..
- 242 -
Do you have relaves or a
member of your household
who are employed by the
City of Modesto, or who are
currently serving on the City
Council, or who are Board
members or
Commissioners?
No
List relevant employment,
training, and experience,
cerficates of training,
licenses, and professional
registraon.
- Member of a local nonprofit youth group; Park Youth
Committee, through parent company Tuolumne River Trust
How did you learn about
the board for which you are
applying?
Community Group
Describe your involvement
in community acvies and
civic organizaons. (Do not
list parsan polical
pares.)
- Park Youth Committee : Avid member of the organization, one of which will end on December 15.

What is it about this
posion that interests you?
The main thing that interests me is the idea of being able to change around you for the better. Modesto has definitely changed who I am as a person, and I hope to do the same to others, displaying the true, bright side of Modesto that I know.

What qualies, experience,
and experse would you
bring to it?
I would bring my own ideas to the table, as well as taking in others thoughts and opinions, along with what I have learned from Park Youth Committee, on how to get the public excited about the work happening in Modesto, and the aspect to let everyone have a turn to participate, not hogging the floor for myself.
(Section Break)
Demographics
City of Modesto invites all applicants to voluntarily self-identify their gender, race/ethnicity, veteran status and disability. Submission of this information is voluntary and refusal to provide will not affect the application process. The information will be kept confidential and will only be used in accordance with the provisions of applicable laws, executive orders and regulations, including those that require the information to be summarized and reported to the federal government for civil rights enforcement.

Gender
Ethnicity
Are you currently, or have
#5..
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you ever, served in the
Armed Forces?
Do you consider yourself
disabled?
(Section Break)
Why do you want to serve
on the Youth Commission?
I want to serve because Modesto is truly a place I call home. I grew up here and have always loved it, but along with this love I have noticed the unpleasant. I want to speak about this issue at places where I can be heard and where they will take into account of what I say. I understand that I am speaking for many more people than just myself, as the public's opinion always matters most, and I feel with my knowledge and first hand experiences of what Modesto it is as a place and a committee, I believe that I can do such.

What do you see as the
primary issues currently
impacng youth in our
community?
The primary issues I have noticed are drug use and
homelessness, which negatively affects the people of Modesto.

What skills and talents will
you bring to the
Commission?
I will bring forward my ideas and insights on the aspects displayed, as well as providing the specific reasoning of such.

Also, being able to listen to others ideas, as well as building off of them, whether in group conversation or out-of-office work.

What other clubs and extra
curriculars are you involved
in?
I am involved in Mock Trial, Speech and Debate, and Park Youth Committee.
a. How many hours a week
do you spend in these
acvies?
I spend around five hours a week.
b. How will you priorize
your involvement in this
role?
I will by not neglecting my position, as I realize beforehand that this would be a team effort, and that is certainly one of where I should be holding my own weight.

What do you enjoy doing
with your free me?
I enjoy playing tennis and piano, rock climbing, watching television, painting/crafting, reading, and being with friends.

Are you able to meet the
me and travel
commitments of
approximately three to four
hours per month that come
as a member of this
commission?
Yes
Applicant
Acknowledgement
If selected, I commit to attending all my meetings and serving diligently to represent the youth of Modesto on the Youth Commission.
#5..
- 244 -
Parent / Guardian
Acknowledgement
If selected, I commit to attending all my meetings and serving diligently to represent the youth of Modesto on the Youth Commission.

Email not displaying correctly? View it in your browser. #5..
- 245 -
From: [email protected]
Sent: Thursday, August 17, 2023 11:53 PM
To: Opmize; Diane Sheatsley; Valerie Garcia
Subject: Online Form Submission #40190 for Boards, Commissions & Commiees Applicaon
External Email: Please use caution when clicking links and/or opening attachments.

Apply To: Youth Commission
First Name Akhil
Last Name Patel
Date of Birth
School
Grade
Address
City Modesto
State CA
Zip Code
Home Phone
Work Phone
Email Address
Occupaon
Employer / Business
Business Address
#5..
- 246 -
City
State
Zip Code
Educaon
(Section Break)
Qualifications:

Are you enrolled full-me in
high school?
Yes
Modesto Resident
Requirement
I understand that I must be a Modesto resident in order to apply for this committee or commission.

Field not completed.

How did you learn about
the board for which you are
applying?
Other (Please specify)
If other, please specify: I heard about the Modesto Youth Commission from my older sister, Aheli, who graduated last year. She was a part of the original cohort of students from the 2021-2022 school year that revived the commission. She told me about the opportunity and I was interested as I would like to learn more about my city and ways that we can improve it.

Describe your involvement
in community acvies and
civic organizaons. (Do not
list parsan polical
pares.)
My community engagement activity that I have been
participating in this year would be my membership on the Park Youth Committee. As an elected member, I help organize and advocate secure funding for projects to protect the Tuolumne River. My work at community events and meetings helps to address the issues families are facing that include their concerns for safety and limited access to parks. Currently I’m working with the rest of the committee to share and spread our forms/questionnaire to the public. We created these surveys to develop a digital storytelling map and synthesize results to identify policy changes. Additionally, I’ve helped facilitate group meetings and lead projects. I also volunteer at community park events over the weekends. My service activities consist of volunteering at the community food kitchen weekly, CrossPoint church. The food kitchen is a non-profit that offers free meals to any person and is open to the public.

What is it about this
posion that interests you?
What draws me to this position is the chance to actively contribute to the growth and development of Modesto. I am passionate about making a positive impact on our city,
particularly in areas that are important to its residents. I would also like to learn more about the gaps in our city that might need more attention. This includes increasing entertainment for the youth and mental health support. My experience on the Park Youth Committee has provided me with valuable insights and skills that I believe are directly applicable to the Modesto City Youth Commission. Serving on the Park Youth Committee allowed me to understand the importance of community
engagement, teamwork, and effective communication. I have #5..
- 248 -
witnessed firsthand the positive outcomes that can be achieved when young people actively participate in decision-making processes, especially when it comes to issues related to public spaces and recreational opportunities. Through my involvement in the Park Youth Committee, I have become well-versed in the needs and concerns of our community's youth. I have learned to listen to the voices of my peers, understand their
perspectives, and work collaboratively to address their needs.

This experience has given me a strong foundation to contribute effectively to the Modesto City Youth Commission, where I believe I can be an advocate for the interests of our youth while working to improve the overall quality of life in our city.

Additionally, every year at our school, Parks and Recreation hosts a booth at the career fair and I’ve always been interested in exploring what they have to offer. I think that participating in the commission and collaborating with Parks and Recreation would be a very exciting opportunity. As a prospective
commissioner, I am interested in delving into the specific impact of late school start times on the youth in our city. I believe that by studying this issue, we can identify potential solutions to improve the sleep patterns and overall quality of life for our students. It has been one school year since the passing of the state bill to change our school time, and I would like to explore its results and especially, opinions from students. Being a commissioner would allow me to actively participate in shaping policies and initiatives that directly affect our community's youth. This most directly, excites me about the position.

What qualies, experience,
and experse would you
bring to it?
My experience as an active member of the Park Youth
Committee has honed my ability to work collaboratively and effectively. I have learned how to listen intently, understanding different viewpoints, and fostering an environment where everyone feels valued. This experience has also given me insights into the specific needs and concerns of our youth, allowing me to represent their interests. In terms of expertise, my background in data analysis from the Park Youth
Committee, provides a unique advantage. I am adept at
gathering and interpreting data to inform decision-making. This skill can be instrumental in assessing the impact of various policies and initiatives we undertake as a commission. I believe that a data-informed approach, combined with community input, is the key to making meaningful and sustainable changes that will positively affect our city. Additionally, I have done some research on projects that happened last year and I am aware of the bylaws and expectations as a commissioner. I’ve been to a city council meeting as well and I am comfortable in the setting.

My combination of creativity, community engagement
experience, and data-driven expertise is what I bring to this role, and I am eager to channel these qualities into driving positive change for the youth and the entire community. (Section Break)
Demographics
#5..
- 249 -
City of Modesto invites all applicants to voluntarily self-identify their gender, race/ethnicity, veteran status and disability. Submission of this information is voluntary and refusal to provide will not affect the application process. The information will be kept confidential and will only be used in accordance with the provisions of applicable laws, executive orders and regulations, including those that require the information to be summarized and reported to the federal government for civil rights enforcement.

Gender
Ethnicity
Are you currently, or have
you ever, served in the
Armed Forces?
Do you consider yourself
disabled?
(Section Break)
Why do you want to serve
on the Youth Commission?
I would like to serve on the youth commission because I would like to make myself more active and responsible in local city government. I'm interested in learning more about Modesto and what it has to offer for the youth. I think more kids should be educated and aware about activities, such as the ones outlined from the Parks and Recreation magazines. I am passionate about helping students like me and learning more about their needs.

What do you see as the
primary issues currently
impacng youth in our
community?
Currently, I see artificial intelligence and its involvement within education as a huge challenge. I wonder how it will be utilized in schools and I'm interested in exploring that. Additionally, I would like to a be a part of increasing mental health advocacy as I believe that there is a huge need for that especially with the youth.

What skills and talents will
you bring to the
Commission?
My experience as an active member of the Park Youth
Committee has honed my ability to work collaboratively and effectively. I have learned how to listen intently, understanding different viewpoints, and fostering an environment where everyone feels valued. This experience has also given me insights into the specific needs and concerns of our youth, allowing me to represent their interests. In terms of expertise, my background in data analysis from the Park Youth
Committee, provides a unique advantage. I am adept at
gathering and interpreting data to inform decision-making. This skill can be instrumental in assessing the impact of various policies and initiatives we undertake as a commission. I believe that a data-informed approach, combined with community input, is the key to making meaningful and sustainable changes that will positively affect our city. Additionally, I have done some research on projects that happened last year and I am aware of the bylaws and expectations as a commissioner. I’ve been to a #5..
- 250 -
city council meeting as well and I am comfortable in the setting.

What other clubs and extra
curriculars are you involved
in?
My other extracurricular and club activities that I'm involved in include varsity tennis, cross country, science olympiad and math olympiad. I am also a student advisory member for the Park Youth Committee.
a. How many hours a week
do you spend in these
acvies?
5-6 hours a week
b. How will you priorize
your involvement in this
role?
I will ensure to be very organized when when youth committee meetings are occurring. I will respond to emails about my attendance and communicate accordingly. I will also participate and share my ideas during meetings.

What do you enjoy doing
with your free me?
On my free time, I enjoy playing chess and tennis. I love going outdoors with my family and hiking.

Parent / Guardian
Acknowledgement
If selected, I commit to attending all my meetings and serving diligently to represent the youth of Modesto on the Youth Commission.

Email not displaying correctly? View it in your browser. #5..
- 251 -
From: [email protected]
Sent: Wednesday, August 16, 2023 9:24 PM
To: Opmize; Diane Sheatsley; Valerie Garcia
Subject: Online Form Submission #40166 for Boards, Commissions & Commiees Applicaon
External Email: Please use caution when clicking links and/or opening attachments.

Apply To: Youth Commission
First Name Rudra
Last Name Patel
Date of Birth
School
Grade
Address
City Modesto
State California
Zip Code
Home Phone
Work Phone
Email Address
Occupaon
Employer / Business
Business Address
#5..
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City
State
Zip Code
Educaon
(Section Break)
Qualifications:

Are you enrolled full-me in
high school?
Yes
Modesto Resident
Requirement
I understand that I must be a Modesto resident in order to apply for this committee or commission.

N/A
How did you learn about
the board for which you are
applying?
Other (Please specify)
If other, please specify: I learned of the Youth Commission through students' word of mouth as well as through an Instagram post.

Describe your involvement
in community acvies and
civic organizaons. (Do not
list parsan polical
pares.)
As a student in the City of Modesto, I stay active in community activities and civic organizations as the co-president of the StanCo Volunteer Outreach Organization, also known as The SCOVO. As co-president, I have been in charge of planning community-wide events that involve our youth such as
organizing various speaking engagements relating to the importance of staying involved in the community. I also volunteer in my cultural based community, as I am a member of the Central Valley Gujarati Samaj, which hosts a variety of events that help promote cultural awareness. Through this, I understood the value of each and every volunteer working to make an impact on their community.

What is it about this
posion that interests you?
A position on the Youth Commission interests me because I want to be involved with like-minded teenagers who care about matters pertaining to initiatives, policies, and programs impacting the youth of the City of Modesto. The main objective for the Youth Commission is to give leaders with diverse life experiences, the opportunity to actively participate in a variety of activities on matters affecting the quality of life for all youth.

The youth commission also gives valuable experience of what it is like to take part in government processes and shines light onto resourceful characteristics such as advocacy,
collaboration, communicating the needs of the youth, decision making, leadership, and planning.

What qualies, experience,
and experse would you
bring to it?
At a young age, being involved on sports teams ranging from basketball to baseball to soccer, my coaches always informed me that I was a leader and example for other children around me. They let me know that I could help my peers grow in the skills they lack and become better people overall. That is the job of a leader, to lead by example and help those around us grow. As time grew on, we learned how to work as a team to #5..
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tackle obstacles in our path. Similar to the Youth Commission, we are just a group of leaders working together to tackle the main issues in our youth to bring prosperity to our community.

Not only have I helped others grow in the qualities they aspired to achieve, but I have also grown as a student, human, and leader. It is important to show compassion to other people as well as your community
(Section Break)
Demographics
City of Modesto invites all applicants to voluntarily self-identify their gender, race/ethnicity, veteran status and disability. Submission of this information is voluntary and refusal to provide will not affect the application process. The information will be kept confidential and will only be used in accordance with the provisions of applicable laws, executive orders and regulations, including those that require the information to be summarized and reported to the federal government for civil rights enforcement.

Gender
Ethnicity
Are you currently, or have
you ever, served in the
Armed Forces?
Do you consider yourself
disabled?
(Section Break)
Why do you want to serve
on the Youth Commission?
I would like to serve on the Youth Commission because it is rare for young individuals to have the chance to use their voice and propel initatives to make change in their community. This opportunity demonstrates how much the youth can provide for their city and how capable they are of being leaders. Serving on the Youth Commission would allow me the privilege to help our city's youth change for the better. From my experience around other students and young adults in the City of Modesto, I have seen a variety of behaviors and issues arising, such as cultural insensitivity, peer pressure, and lack of involvement in civic engagement. As a Youth Commissioner, I would make it a
priority to bring awareness to these diverse issues, and collaborate with my peers on ways the Commission can gauge a larger youth involvement to ensure the support we provide as an advisory board is meaningful and can bring about positive change.

What do you see as the
primary issues currently
impacng youth in our
community?
One of the largest issues I see impacting the youth in our community is bullying and mental health. Though we are just children, many factors in our lives wreak havoc onto
adolescents minds. This, thus, results in many teens facing all #5..
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time lows with their mental and physical health, and the need to express their anger and feelings onto their peers. Another leading factor impacting youth in our community is the lack of involvement in local civic organizations. Social media and technology has taken a toll on many young adults minds, resulting in an unmotivated work effort. As young adults, we need to become more interconnected with one another and learn to care about our community, so that our city can thrive and relax knowing it is placed into the hands of responsible, youthful, leaders.

What skills and talents will
you bring to the
Commission?
As many different leaders establish various programs and measures throughout the city of Modesto, I understand the impact the Commission has in ensuring the youth is accounted for and not left behind. Through my communication skills, I hope to engage the youth across the city to gauge their perspective and share their voices when advising on initiatives and policies. In addition, I hope to use my open mindset and hard work ethic to collaborate with the other youth
commissioners to discuss the issues that continue to impact our city, and bring awareness to what the Modesto City has to offer and create change.

What other clubs and extra
curriculars are you involved
in?
I am co-president of the non-profit organization,SCOVO, or the StanCo Volunteer Outreach Organization, that serves to help the community in a positive way by contributing our time and resources to different parts of Stanislaus County. My
experience in SCOVO will enable me to utilize my organization and coordinating skills to prepare for outreach events and initiatives that are discussed on the council. In addition to SCOVO, I hope to become involved in clubs such as Mock
Trial, Speech and Debate, and Model United Nations. I'm also involved in sports, such as basketball, baseball, and track. a. How many hours a week
do you spend in these
acvies?
7 1/2 Hours
b. How will you priorize
your involvement in this
role?
I will prioritize my involvement in this role by ensuring I attend all youth commission meetings, review all agenda items and materials to provide my best input, balance my time, and put the responsibilities this role will require above my other commitments.

What do you enjoy doing
with your free me?
In my free time, I tend to stay busy by participating in afterschool activities such as playing sports, playing the piano, and attending math sessions on the weekend. Aside from that, I enjoy taking small breaks as I believe it is healthy to unwind from the stressful moments of life. These usually take in the form of playing basketball, spending time with my friends, or watching movies.

Are you able to meet the
me and travel
commitments of
Yes
#5..
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approximately three to four
hours per month that come
as a member of this
commission?
Applicant
Acknowledgement
If selected, I commit to attending all my meetings and serving diligently to represent the youth of Modesto on the Youth Commission.

Parent / Guardian
Acknowledgement
If selected, I commit to attending all my meetings and serving diligently to represent the youth of Modesto on the Youth Commission.

Email not displaying correctly? View it in your browser. #5..
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From: [email protected]
Sent: Thursday, August 10, 2023 8:36 AM
To: Opmize; Diane Sheatsley; Valerie Garcia
Subject: Online Form Submission #40069 for Boards, Commissions & Commiees Applicaon
External Email: Please use caution when clicking links and/or opening attachments.

Apply To: Youth Commission
First Name Deen
Last Name Pierstorff
Date of Birth
School
Grade
Address
City Modesto
State CA
Zip Code
Home Phone
Work Phone
Email Address
Occupaon
Employer / Business
Business Address
#5..
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City
State
Zip Code
Educaon
(Section Break)
Qualifications:

Are you enrolled full-me in
high school?
Yes
Modesto Resident
Requirement
I understand that I must be a Modesto resident in order to apply for this committee or commission.

Are you a Modesto
resident?
Yes
If yes, what was the date of
residency?
Are you a registered voter
in the City of Modesto?
Yes
Are you a registered voter
in Stanislaus County?
Yes
Are you now or have you
ever been employed by the
City of Modesto?
No
Inclusive dates: Field not completed.
#5..
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Do you have relaves or a
member of your household
who are employed by the
City of Modesto, or who are
currently serving on the City
Council, or who are Board
members or
Commissioners?
No
List relevant employment,
training, and experience,
cerficates of training,
licenses, and professional
registraon.

I am a student who believes in civic engagement and positive change making.

How did you learn about
the board for which you are
applying?
Other (Please specify)
If other, please specify: My sister was a former Youth Commissioner. Her name is Ameena Pierstorff.

Describe your involvement
in community acvies and
civic organizaons. (Do not
list parsan polical
pares.)
As long as I can remember my family has been a part of many activities, such as participating in Love Modesto, Walk a Mile in Her Shoes for Haven Women's Center, the State Theater
fundraising. I also help with events and organizations that my parents host and are a part of such as Mod Shop, Modesto Porchfest, The ILL List Poetry Slam, Battle of the Bands and the Stanislaus County Commission for Women.

What is it about this
posion that interests you?
I'm curious about civic engagement and what it takes to be a part of the community council that can make positive change. I would like to use my voice to help the city that I love so much.

What qualies, experience,
and experse would you
bring to it?
I have been a part of student council since elementary school into junior high and hope to also continue on that path into high school. I enjoy public speaking. I'm grateful to have been able to observe my parents in their leadership roles in this community for example my dad who is the President of The State Theater and my mom is the Vice President of the
Commission for Women, and through that I have helped with their duties when I'm needed. I really like to play Pickelball and think it would be neat to start a a Youth Pickleball League. It would be a great activity that is healthy and fun.
(Section Break)
Demographics
City of Modesto invites all applicants to voluntarily self-identify their gender, race/ethnicity, veteran status and disability. Submission of this information is voluntary and refusal to provide will not affect the application process. The information will be kept confidential and will only be used in accordance with the provisions of applicable laws, executive orders and regulations, including those that #5..
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require the information to be summarized and reported to the federal government for civil rights enforcement.

Gender
Ethnicity
Are you currently, or have
you ever, served in the
Armed Forces?
Do you consider yourself
disabled?
(Section Break)
Why do you want to serve
on the Youth Commission?
My sister, Ameena Pierstorff was a former Youth Commissioner and she recommended for me to get involved. She has shared with me the positive change that this commission can offer our community and I'm excited to be a part of that change.

What do you see as the
primary issues currently
impacng youth in our
community?
I think that young people are turning to drugs and alcohol for entertainment, and it can have scary consequences. I also see that there is a lack of free opportunities for health and fitness activities for teens.

What skills and talents will
you bring to the
Commission?
I love health and fitness and cooking. I would be able to support tips and fitness training for young people. I can try to help support activities at The State Theater for young people. Movie nights, club events, things like that.

What other clubs and extra
curriculars are you involved
in?
At the moment I'm not a part of any clubs. I hope to find out more about opportunities at my new school when school starts.

I'm interested in Speech & Debate and Mock Trial.
a. How many hours a week
do you spend in these
acvies?
3 b. How will you priorize
your involvement in this
role?
I will make myself available for all meetings
What do you enjoy doing
with your free me?
I enjoy working out at the gym, meal prepping and spending time with family and friends.

Are you able to meet the
me and travel
commitments of
approximately three to four
hours per month that come
as a member of this
commission?
Yes
#5..
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Applicant
Acknowledgement
If selected, I commit to attending all my meetings and serving diligently to represent the youth of Modesto on the Youth Commission.

Parent / Guardian
Acknowledgement
If selected, I commit to attending all my meetings and serving diligently to represent the youth of Modesto on the Youth Commission.

Email not displaying correctly? View it in your browser. #5..
- 262 -
From: [email protected]
Sent: Sunday, July 30, 2023 12:23 PM
To: Opmize; Diane Sheatsley; Valerie Garcia
Subject: Online Form Submission #39918 for Boards, Commissions & Commiees Applicaon
External Email: Please use caution when clicking links and/or opening attachments.

Apply To: Youth Commission
First Name Sharvesh
Last Name Prabhakar
Date of Birth
School
Grade
Address
City Modesto
State California
Zip Code
Home Phone
Work Phone
Email Address
Occupaon
Employer / Business
Business Address
#5..
- 263 -
City
State
Zip Code
Educaon
(Section Break)
Qualifications:

Are you enrolled full-me in
high school?
Yes
Modesto Resident
Requirement
I understand that I must be a Modesto resident in order to apply for this committee or commission.

I bring valuable experience and training that reflects my commitment to serving the community. I have been actively involved in school clubs such as student council and debate club, which have honed my leadership and communication
skills. Volunteering at local community events and fundraisers has given me a deeper understanding of the needs and
challenges faced by different groups in our society. I have volunteered for 100+ hours at my local hospital.

How did you learn about
the board for which you are
applying?
Community Group
Describe your involvement
in community acvies and
civic organizaons. (Do not
list parsan polical
pares.)
My involvement in community activities and civic organizations reflects my dedication to making a positive impact. I
volunteered for over 100 hours at the hospital, demonstrating my commitment to helping others in need. At the library, I organized engaging events for teens and children to promote reading and social interaction, showcasing my leadership skills and passion for fostering a sense of community. Additionally, participating in multiple cleanups of the Stanislaus River allowed me to contribute to environmental preservation and instilled in me the importance of being an environmental steward. Building mountain bike trails further highlighted my dedication and willingness to work hard for causes I care about.

I believe that joining the youth commission would provide me with the opportunity to collaborate with like-minded individuals, take on meaningful responsibilities, and continue making a difference in my community.

What is it about this
posion that interests you?
The youth commission's ability to empower youth voices, engage in meaningful community work, and drive impactful change excites me. I am passionate about contributing to my community and believe my perspective as a young individual is valuable. Joining the commission will also offer opportunities for personal growth and leadership development, preparing me for future responsibilities. Overall, I am eager to be part of positive change and help shape a better future for our community.

What qualies, experience,
and experse would you
bring to it?
I bring commitment to community service, leadership and organizational skills, effective communication, problem-solving abilities, environmental awareness, and a passion for positive change. I embrace diversity and am open-minded, eager to learn and collaborate for the betterment of our community and its youth.
#5..
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(Section Break)
Demographics
City of Modesto invites all applicants to voluntarily self-identify their gender, race/ethnicity, veteran status and disability. Submission of this information is voluntary and refusal to provide will not affect the application process. The information will be kept confidential and will only be used in accordance with the provisions of applicable laws, executive orders and regulations, including those that require the information to be summarized and reported to the federal government for civil rights enforcement.

Gender
Ethnicity
Are you currently, or have
you ever, served in the
Armed Forces?
Do you consider yourself
disabled?
(Section Break)
Why do you want to serve
on the Youth Commission?
I want to serve on the Youth Commission because I believe in the power of youth voices and their ability to make a positive impact on our community. I am passionate about advocating for issues that matter to young people and contributing to creating a more inclusive and supportive environment. Serving on the commission will also provide opportunities for personal growth and leadership development, allowing me to collaborate with others dedicated to driving positive change. I am eager to be an advocate for positive youth development and contribute my skills and experiences to benefit our community.

What do you see as the
primary issues currently
impacng youth in our
community?
Mental health challenges among young individuals are
prevalent in many communities, including Modesto. The wellbeing of youth is crucial for their personal growth, academic success, and overall quality of life. In the city of Modesto, like in many other places, there may be factors contributing to mental health issues among young people, such as academic
pressures, social isolation, family dynamics, and economic uncertainties.

What skills and talents will
you bring to the
Commission?
As a member of the Commission, I will bring a diverse set of skills and talents that will contribute to its effectiveness and success. Through my experience organizing library events and building mountain bike trails, I have developed strong
leadership skills and can inspire others to take action.

Additionally, my ability to articulate ideas clearly and listen actively enables me to be an effective communicator, ensuring #5..
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that the voices of fellow youth are heard and represented.

Having participated in environmental cleanups and community service initiatives, I have honed my problem-solving abilities, analyzing complex issues and finding creative solutions.

Furthermore, I value diversity and will actively promote inclusivity within the Commission, championing efforts to ensure equal opportunities for all. My environmental awareness drives me to advocate for sustainable practices, and my passion for community service and positive change fuels my dedication to making a meaningful impact. I am adaptable and open to new ideas, embracing change and remaining flexible in evolving situations. With these skills and attributes, I am eager to collaborate with fellow members and contribute to creating a more vibrant, inclusive, and youth-oriented community.

What other clubs and extra
curriculars are you involved
in?
My extracurriculars include Science Olympiad, Math tutoring, hospital volunteering, and the debate team. I have won awards and honors in each one, showcasing my dedication to any given topic. I am also actively involved in various community events and environmental initiatives. I participate in cleanups, engage in building bike trails, and created an app that calculates the environmental impact of cars. These diverse activities have allowed me to excel academically, showcase leadership skills, and contribute to causes I am passionate about. With a focus on community involvement and
environmental stewardship, I am eager to bring my experiences and expertise to the Youth Commission, advocating for the interests of young people in our community.
a. How many hours a week
do you spend in these
acvies?
10+ hours
b. How will you priorize
your involvement in this
role?
As a member of the Youth Commission, I will prioritize my involvement by dedicating time and effort to fulfill the responsibilities of the role. Understanding the significance of the commission's work, I will make it a priority to attend all meetings and actively participate in discussions and decisionmaking processes. I will also allocate time to research and understand the issues affecting young people in our community, ensuring that I am well-informed and prepared to advocate effectively.

What do you enjoy doing
with your free me?
In my free time, I enjoy playing video games, tennis with friends, reading, running, and baking. These activities bring me joy and allow me to unwind, stay active, and explore my creative side.

Are you able to meet the
me and travel
commitments of
approximately three to four
hours per month that come
as a member of this
commission?
Yes
#5..
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Applicant
Acknowledgement
If selected, I commit to attending all my meetings and serving diligently to represent the youth of Modesto on the Youth Commission.

Parent / Guardian
Acknowledgement
If selected, I commit to attending all my meetings and serving diligently to represent the youth of Modesto on the Youth Commission.

Email not displaying correctly? View it in your browser. #5..
- 268 -
From: [email protected]
Sent: Wednesday, August 2, 2023 1:33 PM
To: Opmize; Diane Sheatsley; Valerie Garcia
Subject: Online Form Submission #39968 for Boards, Commissions & Commiees Applicaon
External Email: Please use caution when clicking links and/or opening attachments.

Apply To: Youth Commission
First Name Emily
Last Name Rontal
Date of Birth
School
Grade
Address
City Modesto
State California
Zip Code
Home Phone
Work Phone
Email Address
Occupaon
Employer / Business
Business Address
#5..
- 269 -
City
State
Zip Code
Educaon
(Section Break)
Qualifications:

Are you enrolled full-me in
high school?
Yes
Modesto Resident
Requirement
I understand that I must be a Modesto resident in order to apply for this committee or commission.

Field not completed.

How did you learn about
the board for which you are
applying?
Other (Please specify)
If other, please specify: I was referred by Lolamaya Evans, (Senior at Modesto High School).

Describe your involvement
in community acvies and
civic organizaons. (Do not
list parsan polical
pares.)
Last year I was the Student Body President of La Loma Junior High School. I was also the President of CJSF,(California Junior Scholarship Federation), and Vice Chairperson of the school Site Council. During my time in La Loma Leadership, I ran our Instagram page, planned events/dances, decorated and set up for every Fun Friday and rally, and I led every student council meeting. I’ve been involved in helping out with Love Modesto. I participated in competitive cheer, volleyball, basketball, track, and am currently in Modesto High Cheer. As a Freshman at Modesto High, I am currently involved in Leadership and full IB, and I plan on joining ASB and other clubs. I look forward to having the chance to partake in this wonderful opportunity! What is it about this
posion that interests you?
I think it would be great to branch out and help with my community in any opportunity I have, and this is a wonderful way for me to give back to the community that has helped me so much. I want to participate in making Modesto a better place!
What qualies, experience,
and experse would you
bring to it?
I want to help with growth in my community, and I know that I can bring experience in working with others in all age groups, and I see myself as a good representation of today’s youth. I am both Filipino and White, so I experience being a biracial teenager, like most of our youth. This helps me relate to many, as well as work easily with most.
(Section Break)
Demographics
City of Modesto invites all applicants to voluntarily self-identify their gender, race/ethnicity, veteran status and disability. Submission of this information is voluntary and refusal to provide will not affect the application process. The #5..
- 271 -
information will be kept confidential and will only be used in accordance with the provisions of applicable laws, executive orders and regulations, including those that require the information to be summarized and reported to the federal government for civil rights enforcement.

Gender
Ethnicity
Are you currently, or have
you ever, served in the
Armed Forces?
Do you consider yourself
disabled?
(Section Break)
Why do you want to serve
on the Youth Commission?
I want to serve on the Youth Commission because I want to make a positive change on our community, whether that means I give my insight, experience, or time within the youth of Modesto. I genuinely love helping others, and it would be a wonderful experience to make Modesto better for many.

What do you see as the
primary issues currently
impacng youth in our
community?
Within the youth in our community, I feel that poverty is a huge issue because it causes people to be hungry and to not have things available to them, including clothing, entertainment, food, school supplies, and overall places to go. People aren’t able to be involved in extracurriculars, such as clubs and sports. These provide comfort and safe-spaces for kids. Without available clubs, people don’t have peers or adults that they can go to for help or acceptance, so it increases the separation in our today’s society. With this, people unable to afford clubs and acceptance feel left out and “different” in a negative sense.

Making more belonging areas for kids, it’ll provide more representation in cultures and our community. The issue of poverty concerns the issue of certain people not feeling that they belong.

What skills and talents will
you bring to the
Commission?
I have the ability of working well anyone, and I am dedicated to everything I’m apart of. I have a positive attitude, as well as being organized. I also have a great mindset towards finding solutions, so I will help with issues needing solutions and with creating recommendations in order to better our community.

Overall, I think that I would be a great asset for the Youth Commission!
What other clubs and extra
curriculars are you involved
in?
Although last year I was involved in Yes Company, Love
Modesto, Rams competitive cheer, volleyball, basketball, track, leadership, ASB Presidency, CJSF Presidency, Site council, and running a school Instagram page, I am starting my
Freshman year included in only cheer, leadership, and full IB. I hope to be chosen for this wonderful opportunity in helping our #5..
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community. I am looking forward to being more involved in Modesto and being apart of the Youth Commission!
a. How many hours a week
do you spend in these
acvies?
Cheer takes about 15 hours a week, additional to my other extracurricular being included in my regular school hours. b. How will you priorize
your involvement in this
role?
I am great at time-management/multitasking, and I am
responsible for all activities I partake in. Youth Commission will not interfere with my existing schedule and responsibilities.

What do you enjoy doing
with your free me?
On Sundays I go to Mass, but otherwise, during my free time I enjoy reading, swimming, walking my dogs, and spending time with my friends and family.

Parent / Guardian
Acknowledgement
If selected, I commit to attending all my meetings and serving diligently to represent the youth of Modesto on the Youth Commission.

Email not displaying correctly? View it in your browser. #5..
- 273 -
From: [email protected]
Sent: Tuesday, August 15, 2023 6:52 PM
To: Opmize; Diane Sheatsley; Valerie Garcia
Subject: Online Form Submission #40144 for Boards, Commissions & Commiees Applicaon
External Email: Please use caution when clicking links and/or opening attachments.

Apply To: Youth Commission
First Name Sabrina
Last Name Toor
Date of Birth
School
Grade
Address
City Modesto
State California
Zip Code
Home Phone
Work Phone
Email Address
Occupaon
Employer / Business
Business Address
#5..
- 274 -
City
State
Zip Code
Educaon
(Section Break)
Qualifications:

Are you enrolled full-me in
high school?
Yes
Modesto Resident
Requirement
I understand that I must be a Modesto resident in order to apply for this committee or commission.

List relevant employment,
training, and experience,
cerficates of training,
licenses, and professional
registraon.

Field not completed.

How did you learn about
the board for which you are
applying?
Field not completed.

Describe your involvement
in community acvies and
civic organizaons. (Do not
list parsan polical
pares.)
Field not completed.

What is it about this
posion that interests you?
Field not completed.

What qualies, experience,
and experse would you
bring to it?
Field not completed.
(Section Break)
Demographics
City of Modesto invites all applicants to voluntarily self-identify their gender, race/ethnicity, veteran status and disability. Submission of this information is voluntary and refusal to provide will not affect the application process. The information will be kept confidential and will only be used in accordance with the provisions of applicable laws, executive orders and regulations, including those that require the information to be summarized and reported to the federal government for civil rights enforcement.

Gender
Ethnicity
Are you currently, or have
you ever, served in the
Armed Forces?
Do you consider yourself
disabled?
#5..
- 276 -
(Section Break)
Why do you want to serve
on the Youth Commission?
Serving on the Youth Commission is an opportunity to work with students coming from different schools and backgrounds who share a common goal: making effective changes in their
community. I’m looking forward to working with other
community changemakers and becoming a voice for youth in Modesto. What will make me an impactful member of the
Commission is my work with reducing nicotine usage in our community’s youth. I have started a nonprofit about nicotine cessation and look forward to sharing my ideas with the Commission. We partner with other local nonprofits such as the Youth Empowerment Organization and have found mentorship in Modesto City council members Rosa Escutia-Braaton and Jeremiah Williams, as well as the mayor, Sue Zwahlen. I am working with these city council members to find solutions to concerns that my nonprofit aims to address, and being a part of the Youth Commission would allow me to work with other
students to greatly enhance our ability to make a positive impact on the community. I am looking forward to my nonprofit being at the forefront of programs and initiatives impacting youth in the city of Modesto. The skills that I have and continue to refine as a well-versed young professional who is passionate about changemaking, will make me an impactful delegate on the Youth Commission. It is my priority that the issues faced by many of today’s students are recognized and rectified for the future of Modesto.

What do you see as the
primary issues currently
impacng youth in our
community?
Nicotine addiction is the primary issue currently impacting youth in our community. As a student at Modesto High School, I observe students vaping on a daily basis. Prolonged exposure to vaping poses a significant health risk to these students. This activity goes beyond the classroom, infiltrating into mental health, family, social relationships, and financial issues; making it the primary issues plaguing the emerging generation locally.

Once I identified this as a significant issue, I started a nonprofit organization called Creation4Cessation, which aims to promote nicotine cessation through art among middle and high school students. Students create art pieces relating to peer pressure, quitting vaping, and health risks which will be shown at an annual art exhibition. We will donate to the American Cancer Society, partner with the local Boys and Girls Club, and city council members to maximize participation and reach to an underserved student population. I am also working to establish a Tobacco Retail License (TRL) with all stores selling tobacco, in an effort to limit the sale of tobacco in Modesto. My nonprofit and establishing the TRL are two steps I am actively taking to suppress the youth nicotine epidemic locally, and I am looking forward to these youth-centered community initiatives being furthered through meaningful delegation on the Youth
Commission. There is a correlation between adolescents
vaping and an increased susceptibility to developing other addictive behaviors such as substance abuse. It can also be a gateway to smoking, and is associated with increased
#5..
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respiratory issues. It is crucial that Modesto’s rising generation is not hindered by such negative outcomes.

What skills and talents will
you bring to the
Commission?
I have had the opportunity to speak to Modesto City
Councilmembers Rosa Escutia-Braaton and Jeremiah Williams to discuss community exposure and partnerships with my
nonprofit. This month, I will be on a radio show called “Making a Difference,” which highlights Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) change makers within California. These
instances where I was put on the spot to highlight myself and my projects have made me a credible and confident
communicator, quick to build rapport with others, and become more methodical in planning and performing. My involvement in various district and community forums such as the Student Advisory Council and MCS Boundary Change Forum have
allowed me to consistently make a strong impact at meetings, encourage delegation, consistently foster a cooperative and collaborative environment, and turn problems into opportunities.

I am also very prompt in responding to emails and easily reachable.

What other clubs and extra
curriculars are you involved
in?
Along with my nonprofit, I enjoy writing opinion editorials for the Modesto Bee regarding issues that affect youth in the Modesto City Schools (MCS) district. I have written articles about the new bell schedule change and its impact on students as well as setting clear guidelines on the use of AI in the classroom to maximize learning efficiency for students and teachers. At school, I’m involved with the Protecting Health and Slamming Tobacco club, the Indian Student Union, and Newspaper. I also serve as a Student Senator, which is a selected student representative invited to attend meetings to discuss issues on campus as well as a Student Ambassador, where I help bridge the gap of hesitation and unfamiliarity between freshmen and new students. After observing the leaders of the clubs I was involved in during my freshman year, I’m looking forward to leading many club activities and initiatives this year. a. How many hours a week
do you spend in these
acvies?
I spend about 15 hours a week in these activities.
b. How will you priorize
your involvement in this
role?
I will prioritize my role on the Youth Commission by revisiting topics discussed in meetings, collaborating with peers, and closing the loop of communication with members on topics that have been raised at each meeting. At school, I will be sure to keep an open mind about matters that concern my peers to discuss at meetings. I believe that it is important to respond in an unbiased manner to the issues brought to me by students, remembering that each student has valuable concerns that deserve to be considered.

What do you enjoy doing
with your free me?
In my free time, I like to cook and bake, read a wide variety of books, spend time with my family and friends, and watch Netflix.
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Are you able to meet the
me and travel
commitments of
approximately three to four
hours per month that come
as a member of this
commission?
Yes
Applicant
Acknowledgement
If selected, I commit to attending all my meetings and serving diligently to represent the youth of Modesto on the Youth Commission.

Parent / Guardian
Acknowledgement
If selected, I commit to attending all my meetings and serving diligently to represent the youth of Modesto on the Youth Commission.

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Appointments CommitteeSeptember 28, 2023

Appointments Committee
September 28, 2023