Agenda packet — Appointments Committee, September 11, 2024 (part 1 of 2)

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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
Wednesday, September 11, 2024 at 4:00 PM
Roll Call: Jeremiah Williams, Chair
Eric Alvarez, Vice-Chair
Rosa Escutia-Braaton, Member
Alternates: Chris Ricci, Nick Bavaro, David Wright, Sue Zwahlen 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 Comment will only be in person. Members of the public who wish to address the Committee, by providing public comment, during the meeting must do so in-person in the 2001-40 Del Puerto Room. As an alternative, members of the public may also provide written public comment submitted via email as indicated in the Submitting Comments by Email instructions on this agenda. Zoom will still be available for viewing and Wordly translation. *Members of the public will be allowed to provide public comment through Zoom if a Committee Member is participating remotely pursuant to the provisions of Assembly Bill 2449. *Effective March 1, 2023, if a technical issue arises with Zoom or the phone dial-in option, the Committee meeting will continue unless the meeting is being held pursuant to the provisions of Assembly Bill 2449. Alternative viewing options are listed below, and the meeting is physically open to the public.
“Wordly” can translate into 25+ different languages! To access written translation during the meeting, please scan the QR Code or click this link https://attend.wordly.ai/join/RJDY-6364.
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"Wordly" puede traducir a más de 25 idiomas diferentes! Para acceder a la traducción durante la reunión, por favor escanee el código QR o haga clic en el enlace https://attend.wordly.ai/join/RJDY-6364.

You may observe a livestream of the meeting at http://media.modestogov.com. You may also view or listen to the meeting as indicated below.

THE MEETING CAN BE VIEWED BY ZOOM VIDEO

CONFERENCING OR TELEPHONE
Joining the Committee meeting via Zoom
The City of Modesto is now offering the ability to view Committee meetings via telephonic conferencing via “Zoom” video conferencing computer technology. The meeting may be accessed through the use of Zoom using the following options:
 Enter the following link into an Internet Browser
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86945970570,
 Enter the following link into an Internet Browser https://zoom.us/ and using the Webinar ID 869 4597 0570
 Passcode 84326
To use Zoom, please visit: https://zoom.us/ and either sign-up for a free Zoom account or continue as a guest. Once you have downloaded the app onto your mobile device, joined from your web browser, or downloaded the Zoom software on your computer you will be ready for the upcoming Committee meeting.

Joining the Committee meeting via Telephone
If you don’t have a smart phone or computer to access the meeting via Zoom, you can listen by phone, by calling 1-877-853-5257 (Toll Free) or 1-888-475-4499 (Toll Free) and enter the Webinar ID 869 4597 0570 Passcode 84326

PUBLIC COMMENTS IN PERSON
Three-minute time limit per speaker.

Only interested persons in the audience may present these matters. Under State law, Committee Members 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 Committee Member or the Committee itself may take action to direct staff to place a matter of business on a future agenda.

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 - 2 -
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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.

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.

Materials related to an item on this Agenda submitted to the Council after distribution of the agenda packet are available for public inspection in the Clerk’s office during normal business hours. Such documents are also available online, subject to staff’s ability to post the documents before the meeting, at the following website www.modestogov.com/councilmeetings 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
Any and all of the following agenda items are subject to action by the Modesto City Council.

NEW BUSINESS

1. Consider the appointment of one City of Modesto Public Member vacancy for the Measure H Oversight Board District 1 seat and forwarding to Council for approval. (Funding Source: Not Applicable)
 Motion recommending the appointment for one vacant District 1 seat of the City of Modesto Measure H Oversight Board to be filled and forwarding to Council for approval.

BUDGET; Stephan Christensen, 209-577-5390, [email protected]

2. Consider the appointments for three vacancies, including one partial term ending December 31, 2024 and two for a four year term from January 1, 2025 to December 31, 2028 on the City of Modesto Landmark Preservation Commission and forwarding to Council for approval. (Funding Source: Not Applicable)
 Motion recommending the appointment of three vacancies including one partial term ending December 31, 2024 and two for a four year term from January 1, 2025 to December 31, 2028 to the City of Modesto Landmark Preservation Commission and forwarding to Council for approval.

CED; Jessica Hill, 209-577-5267, [email protected]
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3. Consider the appointment of two vacancies on the Measure L Citizens’ Transportation Sales Tax Commission for a four-year term from October 8, 2024 to June 30, 2028 and forwarding to Council for approval. (Funding Source: Not Applicable)  Motion recommending two appointments to the Citizens’ Transportation Sales Tax Commission for a four-year term with a term from October 8, 2024 to June 30, 2028, and forwarding to Council for approval.

ENGINEERING SERVICES; Toby Wells, 209-571-5542, [email protected]

4. Consider the appointment of eleven members to the Modesto Youth Commission for a two-year term from October 9, 2024, to August 31, 2026, and forwarding to Council for approval. (Funding Source: Not Applicable)
 Motion recommending the appointment of eleven members to the Modesto Youth Commission for a two-year term from October 9, 2024, to August 31, 2026, and forwarding to Council for approval.

PRN; John Skeel, 209-577-5216, [email protected]

5. Consider the appointment of one vacancy to the Modesto City-County Airport Advisory Committee for a four-year term with an expiration date of June 30, 2028, and forwarding to Council for approval. (Funding Source: Not Applicable)  Motion recommending the appointment of one vacancy to the Airport Advisory Committee for the position of Small Aircraft Owner/G.A. for a four-year term with an expiration date of June 30, 2028, and forwarding to Council for approval.

PUBLIC WORKS; Marisol Navarro, 209-577-5319, [email protected]

6. Consider the removal of two members from the City of Modesto Blight Abatement Advisory Committee and the appointment of two vacancies to the Committee for a four-year term with an expiration date of December 31, 2028, and forwarding to Council for approval. (Funding Source: Not Applicable)
 Motion recommending the removal of Kathleen Munoz and Mike Kelley from the City of Modesto Blight Abatement Advisory Committee pursuant to Section

4.08(a) of the Committee’s bylaws due to unexcused absences, and the appointment of two vacancies to the Committee for a four-year term with an expiration date of December 31, 2028, and forwarding to Council for approval.

PUBLIC WORKS; Myriah Hill, 209-577-5495, [email protected]

ADJOURNMENT
Posted pursuant to Government Code Section 54954.2 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 11, 2024
Date: August 26, 2024
TO: Appointments Committee
Jeremiah Williams, Chair
Eric Alvarez, Vice-Chair
Rosa Escutia-Braaton, Member

THROUGH: Joseph P. Lopez, City Manager
FROM: Stephan Christensen, Interim OPMB Director
SUBJECT: Measure H Oversight Board Member Appointments – District 1 Seat CONTACT: Stephan Christensen, Interim OPMB Director, [email protected], 209-577-5390
DESCRIPTION:

Consider the appointment of one City of Modesto Public Member vacancy for the Measure H Oversight Board District 1 seat and forwarding to Council for approval. (Funding Source: Not Applicable)
STRATEGIC PLAN ELEMENT:

This item advances the City of Modesto 2020-2025 Strategic Plan Area: Governance and Service Delivery: “build community trust in City government through responsive, transparent and efficient service delivery”; Goal J: “build a high-performance organization”.

BACKGROUND:

On November 8, 2022, the Modesto voters approved Measure H, a one-cent sales tax for general City services, and on November 29, 2022, by Resolution No. 2022-453 the Modesto City Council certified the election results. Measure H is expected to provide the City with approximately $43 million annually in additional sales tax revenue into its General Fund.

One important part of Measure H, which is codified in Modesto Municipal Code section 8-2.1215, was the requirement that Council appoint a nine-member Oversight Board by June 30, 2023. The Measure H Oversight Board has the following responsibilities:
1) Meet quarterly to review all revenues and expenditures of funds from the authorized Measure H sales tax.
2) Review annual audit reports related to the Measure H sales tax. #1..
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Appointments Committee, September 11, 2024
Measure H Oversight Board Member Appointments – District 1

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3) Provide at least one written annual report to the City Council at a public meeting summarizing the Measure H Oversight Board findings.

DISCUSSION:

The Measure H ordinance defined the makeup of the Measure H Oversight Board. The Oversight Board will consist of a representative from each Council district and three “at-large” Modesto residents. Strong preference will be given to members that represent a cross-section of the community, possibly including, but not limited to, representatives of the following types of organizations:
1) Schools
2) Local Trade Associations
3) Chambers of Commerce
4) Nonprofit Organizations
5) Senior Citizen Groups
6) Non-partisan Political Organizations
7) Tax-payer Association
8) Neighborhood Organizations
To be considered as a potential member of the Measure H Oversight Board, applicants must meet the below criteria to qualify:
1) Must be a registered voter and resident of City of Modesto 2) Must complete the online application for Boards, Commissions & Committees for the Measure H Oversight Board
The ordinance requires the Measure H Oversight Board be made up of nine members, six of whom are representatives of the Council districts. As part of this process, each Councilmember from the six districts across the City of Modesto will make a recommendation based upon applications received in their respective districts, to the Appointments Committee.

Currently, there is a single vacancy for the District 1 seat within the Measure H Oversight Board.

The application process for this vacant seat, closed on August 26, 2024.

City staff coordinated with the City’s Communication team to outreach the solicitation of applications for the Measure H Oversight Board positions. The outreach efforts included the following:
 Posted on social media on the City’s Facebook and Instagram accounts with the most recent push on August 10, 2024.
 Posted on the City’s X (formerly “Twitter”) account with the most recent push on August 20, 2024.
 Posted on LinkedIn with the most recent push on August 15, 2024.

During this application process, six applications were received. Of the six applications received, two applications did not live in District 1 and are not eligible for this vacancy but will be held on file for future vacancies on the Measure H Oversight Board. The remaining four applications are up for consideration.
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Appointments Committee, September 11, 2024
Measure H Oversight Board Member Appointments – District 1

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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.

FISCAL IMPACT:

There is no fiscal impact associated with this action.

RECOMMENDED COMMITTEE ACTION:

Staff Recommendations:

Motion recommending the appointment for one vacant District 1 seat of the City of Modesto Measure H Oversight Board to be filled and forwarding to Council for approval.

Approved by:

Stephan Christensen, Interim OPMB Director
Joseph P. Lopez, City Manager
Attachments:

1. Applications – District 1

2. Measure H Oversight Board District 1 Seat Matrix
1https://library.municode.com/ca/modesto/codes/code_of_ordinances?nodeId=CHTR_ARTXIAPBOCO_S1102APT E
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Submission ID 10a29437 3cfb 46d8 ae81 0c1e6a26893d Page 1/9 Boards, Commissions and Committees Application
Advisory Boards and Commissions Application
City of Modesto

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.

Measure H Oversight Board
The Measure H Oversight Board was established pursuant to the Measure H Sales Tax ordinance (Modesto Transactions and Use Tax Ordinance), codified as Article 12 to Chapter 2 of Title 8 of the Modesto Municipal Code with the voter’s approval of Measure H during General Municipal Election on November 8, 2022. The Oversight Board shall review all revenues and expenditures of funds from the tax authorized by this Ordinance, review annual audit reports related to the tax measure, and make at least one (1) written report to the City Council at a public meeting summarizing the Oversight Board’s findings.

Membership Requirements:

The City Council shall appoint a nine (9) -member Oversight Board.

Six (6) members from the Council districts with one (1) member being selected as a representative from each Council district and;
Three (3) “at-large” members chosen from the City as Modesto residents.

The Board shall consist of qualified Members that are registered voters, residing within the City and shall be appointed by the City Council by resolution.

Read full ByLaws, membership requirements and view current members and vacancies.

No
No

Yes
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Submission ID 10a29437 3cfb 46d8 ae81 0c1e6a26893d Page 2/9

Blight Abatement Advisory Committee
04/11/2021
01/11/2022
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Submission ID 10a29437 3cfb 46d8 ae81 0c1e6a26893d Page 3/9 Applicant Information & Background
Lynn
Dickerson
District 1
Nonprofit Organizations

First United Methodist church Tiny Tots Preschool
Stanislaus Community Foundation -grants committee and asset development committee
Friends of Modesto Library - capital campaign co-chair
Document Uploads
You may upload a cover letter and resume to outline your educational, work and community service experiences. #1..
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Submission ID 10a29437 3cfb 46d8 ae81 0c1e6a26893d Page 4/9 Applicant 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.

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Submission ID 10a29437 3cfb 46d8 ae81 0c1e6a26893d Page 5/9 Qualifications

I spent almost 40 years as a business executive. 29 years in the newspaper industry and 12 years in the performing arts industry.

I have been very involved in our community for many years. I am a member and past president of Modesto Rotary, past president of the Downtown Modesto Partnership, past president of the MJC foundation, past board member of the Stanislaus Education Foundation, past Modesto Chamber of Commerce Board member, past board member of Stanislaus Community Foundation. Past member of Focus on Prevention Senior Fellow American Leadership Forum, past Fellow for Irvine Foundations New Leadership Network
I worked hard to help get Measure H passed and care very much about its effectiveness and success

I’m a competent, experienced business executive with an above average interest in and care for our City. I care very much about Measure H funds being used in the most effective way possible
#1..
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Submission ID 10a29437 3cfb 46d8 ae81 0c1e6a26893d Page 6/9 #1..
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Submission ID 10a29437 3cfb 46d8 ae81 0c1e6a26893d Page 7/9 Questionnaire

Other (Please specify)
Instagram post

See above I already listed those groups
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Submission ID 10a29437 3cfb 46d8 ae81 0c1e6a26893d Page 8/9 #1..
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Submission ID 10a29437 3cfb 46d8 ae81 0c1e6a26893d Page 9/9 Signature Agreement
08/11/2024
Application Disclosure
Please confirm that you acknowledge the above responsibilities and understand that your application is a public document and may be disclosed.

Yes, I confirm and acknowledge the above responsibilities and understand that my application is a public document and may be disclosed upon request.

Thank you for providing this information. After clicking ‘Submit’ you will receive a Submission ID number that can be retained for future reference.

You will be updated by our staff as your submission is processed.

Have a great day!
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Zip Code
Education
(Section Break)
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 Modesto
resident?
Yes
If yes, what was the
date of residency?
3/21/1978
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
No
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employed by the City of
Modesto?
Inclusive dates: Field not completed.

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.

As a licensed REALTOR, I have had great experience
introducing our community to incoming residents and have had the opportunity to both see our home town through new
perspectives as well as share the history, promise, and obstacles.

How did you learn
about the board for
which you are
applying?
Other (Please specify)
If other, please specify: I was informed of the opportunity by community member, Lynn Dickerson
Describe your
involvement in
community activities
and civic organizations.
(Do not list partisan
political parties.)
Over the years, I have been involved in offering business consulting for small businesses, worked with the local real estate board, worked with the community advocates of Commonwealth Modesto on the rebranding project and other local improvement projects. I also served on the Memorial Hospital Foundation.

What is it about this
position that interests
you?
As a lifelong resident of Modesto, I feel a great sense of pride and commitment to our community and its potential. I am passionate about doing all I can to identify resources available to contribute to a successful future for our city and to highlight the historical elements of our past.

What qualities,
experience, and
expertise would you
bring to it?
I feel a deep sense of connection with our community and love getting to know and work with the people here of like mind interested in bringing forth the brilliance of our city’s history and future. I would be grateful to partner with others that can envision a great future for our community and implement lasting
enhancements via Measure H. I feel I have the ability to both #1..
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dream big as well as implement practical strategies. I also feel that I connect well with our community for input, vision, and feedback.
(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.

Membership Requirements:

The City Council shall appoint a nine (9) -member Oversight Board.

The Board shall consist of qualified Members that are registered voters, residing within the City and shall be appointed by the City Council by resolution.

Read full ByLaws, membership requirements and view current members and vacancies.

Measure H Oversight Board
No
No

No
Submission ID: acc5fd5f-6cba-42ee-964c-0aec86a465a2 Page 1/8 #1..
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Applicant 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.

Submission ID: acc5fd5f-6cba-42ee-964c-0aec86a465a2 Page 3/8 #1..
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Qualifications

Through a LinkedIn post

I've attended North Valley Thrive Meetings as a representative of Bay Valley Tech.

North Valley Thrive focuses on how to improve the central valley for its residents.

I am an Internship Lead for Bay Valley Tech, an organization that provides free to low cost tech training for those that wish to either upskill, change careers, or are searching for better opportunities.

The chance to be involved with how we can improve Modesto.

Knowledge of Tech trends, legal experience, research experience Submission ID: acc5fd5f-6cba-42ee-964c-0aec86a465a2 Page 4/8 #1..
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Submission ID: acc5fd5f-6cba-42ee-964c-0aec86a465a2 Page 5/8 #1..
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Questionnaire

Other (Please specify)
LinkedIn

Bay Valley Tech
North Valley Thrive
Submission ID: acc5fd5f-6cba-42ee-964c-0aec86a465a2 Page 6/8 #1..
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Submission ID: acc5fd5f-6cba-42ee-964c-0aec86a465a2 Page 7/8 #1..
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Signature Agreement
08/15/2024
Application Disclosure
Please confirm that you acknowledge the above responsibilities and understand that your application is a public document and may be disclosed.

Yes, I confirm and acknowledge the above responsibilities and understand that my application is a public document and may be disclosed upon request.

Thank you for providing this information. After clicking ‘Submit’ you will receive a Submission ID number that can be retained for future reference.

You will be updated by our staff as your submission is processed.

Have a great day!
Submission ID: acc5fd5f-6cba-42ee-964c-0aec86a465a2 Page 8/8 #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 (“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: Other (Please Specify)
If other, please specify: Measure H Oversight Committee First Name Zane
Last Name Johnston
Address
City
State
Zip Code
Home Phone
Work Phone
Email Address
Occupation
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Employer / Business
Business Address
City
State
Zip Code
Education
(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?
Yes
Are you a Modesto
resident?
Yes
If yes, what was the
date of residency?
2/16/1986
Are you a registered
voter in the City of
Modesto?
Yes
Are you a registered
voter in Stanislaus
County?
Yes
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Are you now or have
you ever been
employed by the City of
Modesto?
No
Inclusive dates: Field not completed.

Finance & Administrative Services Director, City of Tracy Feb. 1986 to Jan. 2013
Past President, California Society of Municipal Finance Officers Mayor, City of Waterford 84-85
How did you learn
about the board for
which you are
applying?
Newspaper
Describe your
involvement in
community activities
and civic organizations.
(Do not list partisan
political parties.)
Served on the City Council of the City Waterford 84-86 and as Mayor 84-85
Staff liaison to the Tracy Tomorrow (a City of Tracy multi-year community envisioning process) Land Use Committee
Staff liaison to the City of Tracy Measure E Citizen Oversight Committee (a temporary 1/2 cent sales tax increase)
Controller, Tracy Ares Public Facilities Financing Authority What is it about this
position that interests
you?
The City of Modesto (my community) would benefit from my vast experience and knowledge in local government fiscal
administration and management.

What qualities,
experience, and
expertise would you
bring to it?
In recognition of my fiscal management skills and
accomplishments, upon my retirement the City Council of the City of Tracy dedicated (named) the Zane Johnston wing of the Tracy City Hall. (I also had served as the project manager of the new City Hall construction project.) I always provided a long-term fiscal management perspective and became the "go to" person for creative and out of the box ideas and solutions.
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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)
Email not displaying correctly? View it in your browser. #1..
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Committee Name Lynn Dickerson Sarah Fields Aaron Gunderson Zane Johnston District 1 1 1 1
Occupation Retired VP, Marketing Director Internship Lead/Project Manager/Software Engineer
Retired City of Tracy Finance Director
Education BBA in Marketing BS, Business BA - Political Science Masters of Public Administration, Bacherlor of Science Business
Administration
Resident of Modesto? Yes Yes Yes Yes
Resistered Voter? Yes Yes Yes Yes
Registered in Stanislaus
County? Yes Yes Yes Yes
Have you ever been a City of
Modesto employee? No No No No
Relevant experience I spent almost 40 years as a business executive. 29 years in the newspaper
industry and 12 years in the performing
arts industry.

As a licensed REALTOR, I have had great
experience introducing our community
to incoming residents and have had the
opportunity to both see our home town
through new perspectives as well as
share the history, promise, and
obstacles.

Question not answered, but resume
attached with application.

Finance & Administrative Services
Director, City of Tracy Feb.
1986 to Jan. 2013
Past President, California Society of
Municipal Finance Officers
Mayor, City of Waterford 84-85
Community Invovlement I have been very involved in our
community for many years. I am a
member and past president of Modesto
Rotary, past president of the Downtown
Modesto Partnership, past president of
the MJC foundation, past board member
of the Stanislaus Education Foundation,
past Modesto Chamber of Commerce
Board member, past board member of
Stanislaus Community Foundation. Past
member of Focus on Prevention Senior
Fellow American Leadership Forum, past
Fellow for Irvine Foundations New
Leadership Network.

Over the years, I have been involved in
offering business consulting for small
businesses, worked with the local real
estate board, worked with the
community advocates of
Commonwealth Modesto on the
rebranding project and other local
improvement projects. I also served on
the Memorial Hospital Foundation.

I've attended North Valley Thrive
Meetings as a representative of Bay
Valley Tech. North Valley Thrive focuses
on how to improve the central valley for
its residents. I am an Internship Lead for
Bay Valley Tech, an organization that
provides free to low cost tech training for
those that wish to either upskill, change
careers, or are searching for better
opportunities.

Served on the City Council of the City
Waterford 84-86 and as
Mayor 84-85
Staff liaison to the Tracy Tomorrow (a
City of Tracy multi-year
community envisioning process) Land
Use Committee
Staff liaison to the City of Tracy Measure
E Citizen Oversight
Committee (a temporary 1/2 cent sales
tax increase)
Controller, Tracy Ares Public Facilities
Financing Authority
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Committee Name Lynn Dickerson Sarah Fields Aaron Gunderson Zane Johnston What about this position
interests you?
I worked hard to help get Measure H
passed and care very much about its
effectiveness and success.

As a lifelong resident of Modesto, I feel a
great sense of pride and commitment to
our community and its potential. I am
passionate about doing all I can to
identify resources available to contribute
to a successful future for our city and to
highlight the historical elements of our
past.

The chance to be involved with how we
can improve Modesto.

The City of Modesto (my community)
would benefit from my vast experience
and knowledge in local government
fiscal administration and management.

What qualities, experience,
and expertise would you
bring to this board?
I’m a competent, experienced business
executive with an above average interest
in and care for our City. I care very much
about Measure H funds being used in the
most effective way possible.

I feel a deep sense of connection with
our community and love getting to know
and work with the people here of like
mind interested in bringing forth the
brilliance of our city’s history and future.

I would be grateful to partner with others
that can envision a great future for our
community and implement lasting
enhancements via Measure H. I feel I
have the ability to both dream big as well
as implement practical strategies. I also
feel that I connect well with our
community for input, vision, and
feedback.

Knowledge of Tech trends, legal
experience, research experience.

In recognition of my fiscal management
skills and accomplishments, upon my
retirement the City Council of the City of
Tracy dedicated (named) the Zane
Johnston wing of the Tracy City Hall. (I
also had served as the project manager
of the new City Hall construction
project.) I always provided a long-term
fiscal management perspective and
became the "go to" person for creative
and out of the box ideas and solutions.
#1..
- 34 -

CITY OF MODESTO

COMMITTEE AGENDA REPORT
DATE OF MEETING:

September 11, 2024
Date August 8, 2024
TO: Appointments Committee
Jeremiah Williams, Chair
Eric Alveraz, Vice Chair
Rosa Escutia-Braaton, Member
THROUGH: Joseph P. Lopez, City Manager
FROM: Jessica Hill, Director of Community and Economic Development SUBJECT: Appointments to the Landmark Preservation Commission CONTACT: Jessica Hill, Director of Community and Economic Development [email protected] , 209-577-5267
DESCRIPTION:

Consider the appointments for three (3) vacancies, including one partial term ending December 31, 2024 and two for a four year term from January 1, 2025 to December 31, 2028 on the City of Modesto Landmark Preservation 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 Landmark Preservation Commission (LPC) serves as an advisory group to the City Council on matters related to historic structures, in addition to policies and practices pertaining to preservation of City designated landmarks. Seven (7) members are appointed by the City Council to 4-year terms, 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.
1 https://library.municode.com/ca/modesto/codes/code_of_ordinances?nodeId=CHTR_ARTXIAPBOCO_S1102APTE #2..
- 35 -
Appointments Committee, September 11, 2024
Appointments to the Landmark Preservation Commission

Page 2 of 3 ends

DISCUSSION:

Commissioner David Seymour was appointed on December 5, 2023, by Resolution 2023-515 and his resignation was effective July 9, 2024, by Resolution 2024-268. His resignation leaves a vacancy on the Landmark Preservation Commission and a term to fulfill. Commissioner Michelle Buer was appointed on December 14, 2021, Resolution 2021-482 and her resignation was effective August 13, 2024, by Resolution 2024- 271.Her resignation leaves a second vacancy on the Landmark Preservation Commission and a partial term to fulfill. Commissioner Lisa Lomas was appointed on December 1, 2020, by Resolution 2020-494 and her resignation is anticipated to be accepted by the City Council and become effective September 10, 2024. Her resignation leaves a third vacancy on the Landmark Preservation Commission and a second partial term to fulfill. These vacancies should be fulfilled by a candidate with one of the following requirements (if possible): an architect or a person in building trades, experience in history, law, architectural history, planning, real estate, landscaping architecture, or has a background in finance, accounting or appraisals, a member of the Modesto Historical Society and the McHenry Museum or demonstrate an interest in historic properties and preservation. These vacancies are to be filled by the prospective candidates, subject to review by the Appointments Committee, as required by Council policy, and final approval by the City Council.

Outreach for the Landmark Preservation Commission vacancies 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. In addition, the vacancies were advertised through the City of Modesto’s social media.

The Appointments Committee received ten (7) applications for the Landmark Preservation Commission, one (1) candidate has experience in History, Law and/or Planning, and six (6) candidates have an interest in historic properties and preservation.

All applicants have been deemed eligible to be appointed and have responded to staff’s outreach and four have confirmed continued interest in serving on the Landmark Preservation Commission as recently as August 2024.

For one of the vacancies there is a partial term available through December 2024. Staff is requesting the Committee to recommend an individual to serve a partial term through December 2024, and then a full term through December 2028. This commission has struggled to receive quorum, so this would help with efficiency.

FISCAL IMPACT:

There is no fiscal impact related to this action.

RECOMMENDED COMMITTEE ACTION:

Staff Recommendations:

Motion recommending the appointment of three (3) vacancies including one partial term ending December 31, 2024 and two for a four year term from January 1, 2025 to December 31, 2028 to the City of Modesto Landmark Preservation Commission and forwarding to Council for approval.
#2..
- 36 -
Appointments Committee, September 11, 2024
Appointments to the Landmark Preservation Commission

Page 3 of 3 ends

Approved by:

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

1. Landmark Preservation Bylaws

2. LPC Combined Applications 091124

3. Matrix for LPC
#2..
- 37 -
Rules and Regulations of
Landmark Preservation Commission
City of Modesto
February 27, 2017
1 RULES AND REGULATIONS
Of

LANDMARK PRESERVATION COMMISSION OF CITY OF MODESTO
ARTICLE I.

ORGANIZATION
Section 1.1 Establishment. The Landmark Preservation Commission of the City of Modesto, hereafter called “The Commission”, is established pursuant to the provisions of Chapter 10 of Title IX of the Modesto Municipal Code.

ARTICLE II.

POWERS AND DUTIES
Section 2.1 Enumerated. The Commission shall have the powers and duties as noted in Chapter 10 of Title IX and as contained in its enabling Ordinance No. 2619-CS and all subsequent ordinances amending Chapter 10 of Title IX.

ARTICLE III.

MEETINGS
Section 3.1 Regular Meetings. The regular meetings of the Commission shall be held at 1:00 p.m. on the third Monday of each calendar month. If a regular meeting day falls on a holiday as defined by the Government Code of the State of California, the meeting shall be held on the following Monday. If the following Monday falls on a holiday, the meeting shall be held on the next business day after the following Monday.

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.

Section 3.2 Special Meetings. A special meeting may be called at any time by the Chairperson of the Commission whenever, in the Chairperson’s opinion, the public business may require it, or upon the written request of two (2) members of the Commission. Whenever a special meeting shall be called, written notice of such meeting shall be delivered personally or by mail by the office of the Secretary of the Commission to each member of the Commission #2..
- 38 -
Rules and Regulations of
Landmark Preservation Commission
City of Modesto
February 27, 2017
2 and to each local newspaper of general circulation, radio or television station requesting notice in writing.

Such notice must be delivered at least twenty-four (24) hours before the time of such meeting as specified in the notice. The notice shall specify the time and place of the special meeting and the business to be transacted. No other business shall be considered at such meetings by the Commission. The written notice may be dispensed with as to any member of the Commission who, at or prior to the time the meeting convenes, files with the Secretary a written notice of waiver. The written notice may also be dispensed with as to any member who is actually present at the meeting at the time it is convened.

Section 3.3 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 Landmark Preservation Commission.

Section 3.4 Quorum. A majority of the members of the Commission (four members of seven) shall constitute a quorum for the transaction of business, but fewer members than a quorum may adjourn from time to time.

Section 3.5 Meetings to be Public. All meetings of the Commission shall be open to the public.

Section 3.6 Seating and Roll Call Vote. Each quarter, the Chair may establish the order of seating of members. 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 present shall be required to vote, unless a member has a conflict of interest which requires abstention from voting. The affirmative or negative vote of a majority of the entire membership of the Commission shall be necessary for it to take action.

Section 3.7 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.

Section 3.8 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 #2..
- 39 -
Rules and Regulations of
Landmark Preservation Commission
City of Modesto
February 27, 2017
3 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 present 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 arose 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 3.9 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 at which time that case shall be heard.

Section 3.10 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.

ARTICLE IV.

OFFICERS
Section 4.1 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.

If both are absent, a Chairperson, Pro tempore, shall be elected by the Commissioners present at a given meeting.

Section 4.2 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 V.

PROCEDURES, POWERS, DUTIES, AND STAFF
Section 5.1 Designated. The provisions of the Municipal Code of the City of Modesto pertaining to procedures, powers, duties, and staff shall prevail. The City Manager shall designate staff to 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. #2..
- 40 -
Rules and Regulations of
Landmark Preservation Commission
City of Modesto
February 27, 2017
4 ARTICLE VI.

PARLIAMENTARY PROCEDURE
Section 6.1 Rules of Order. Except as otherwise provided in these rules and regulations, all meetings of the Commission shall be conducted in accordance with the City’s Rules of Order as contained in Section 2-1.10 of the Modesto Municipal Code.

ARTICLE VII.

COMMITTEES
Section 7.1 Special Committees. There shall be such special committees as the Commission may establish from time to time.

ARTICLE VIII.

PUBLIC HEARINGS
Section 8.1 Public Hearing Procedures. The following rules shall govern the conduct of public hearings.
(a) All hearings will be recorded by mechanical means. If a court reporter is desired for a verbatim transcript, the fee or fees of such court 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) At the opening of the hearing, a report prepared in advance of the hearing by the staff will be presented by a member of the staff. As a part of this presentation, suitable large-scale plot plans, photos and other graphics of the project may be identified and placed in view of the Commission and all persons attending the hearing. (d) At the conclusion of the presentation by the staff, the applicant and then the proponents may make a presentation, including calling witnesses and presenting any material exhibits, documents or other physical evidence. Reading at length from books and other written material will not be permitted.
(e) At the conclusion of the presentation by the applicant and proponents, any persons who oppose the application may make a presentation, including calling witnesses and presenting any material exhibits, documents or other physical evidence. Reading at length from books and other written material will not be permitted. #2..
- 41 -
Rules and Regulations of
Landmark Preservation Commission
City of Modesto
February 27, 2017
5 (f) All exhibits, documents or other physical evidence used by applicant or other interested parties during the hearings, will become part of the record and retained by the Secretary until the decision becomes final.
(g) Witnesses shall not be required to be sworn. Each witness will be required to approach the microphone and give their full name for the record before making a presentation.
(h) The right to question the witnesses shall be afforded, if requested.

However, the Chairperson may require that such questions be addressed through the Chairperson for resubmission to the witness.
(i) The reading of details of letters and petitions by the persons submitting them will not be permitted. 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.
(j) While it is desirable in a democratic process to permit every person an unlimited right to speak, such a right may unduly prolong a public hearing and cloud the basic issue if the comments presented are merely cumulative and repetitious. Therefore, whenever necessary, the Chairperson will state that cumulative and repetitious comments are to be avoided and may limit the time allocated for persons who wish to speak. Similarly, testimony and comments which are incompetent, irrelevant or immaterial shall be foreclosed by the Chairperson. If, because of the informality of the hearing, such improper comments are received, it shall not be considered by the Commission in reaching its decision. (k) The Commission may establish special rules for individual meetings, establishing time limits for presentations and requiring presentations to be made through spokespersons, if possible.
(l) After those in favor and opposed to an application have been heard, the Chairperson will ask for the recommendation of the staff and the reasons for such recommendation. After such recommendation, one spokesperson for the applicant and one spokesperson for the opponents 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.
(m) 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 Commission members should be delayed until after the public hearing is closed and the matter is presented to the Commission for discussion and decision. (n) The Commission may take 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 #2..
- 42 -
Rules and Regulations of
Landmark Preservation Commission
City of Modesto
February 27, 2017
6 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 or 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. (o) Commissioners are responsible for ensuring that the public hearing is conducted in a fair and impartial manner. If a Commissioner receives a significant personal contact or telephone call outside of the public hearing which concerns a matter pending before or of interest to the Landmark Preservation 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 should 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. (p) Summary of Procedure for Conduct of Public Hearings by the Modesto Landmark Preservation Commission:

1. Opening of public hearing

2. Staff report

3. Applicant’s presentation

4. Presentation by those in favor

5. Presentation by those opposed

6. Staff recommendation

7. Summation by one spokesperson for the applicant and one spokesperson for the opposition

8. Close of public portion of hearing

9. Discussion and decision by the Commission
#2..
- 43 -
From: [email protected]
To: Optimize; Amber Dick; Viktoria Slater
Subject: Online Form Submission #40609 for Boards, Commissions & Committees Application Date: Tuesday, September 19, 2023 8:21:41 AM
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.

Apply To: Landmark Preservation Commission
First Name Bonnie
Last Name Acree
Address
City Modesto
State Ca
Zip Code 95354
Home Phone
Work Phone Field not completed.

Email Address
Occupation Executive Director Enrich & Employ dba Ice Cream Co./Dental Hygienist
Employer / Business Ice Cream Company/Downey Park Family Dentistry Business Address 2401 East Orangeburg suite 650
City Modesto
State Ca
Zip Code 95355
#2..
- 44 -
Education Dental Hygiene Certification AA
(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?
9/1/1969
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
#2..
- 45 -
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.

Field not completed.

What is it about this
position that interests
you?
I’m interested in beautifying Modesto and keeping our history alive.

What qualities,
experience, and
expertise would you
bring to it?
I love our link to graffiti and classic car culture. My husband and I own classic cars and live being involved with community events. (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 #2..
- 46 -
government for civil rights enforcement.

Gender Field not completed.

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. #2..
- 47 -
From: [email protected]
To: Optimize; Amber Dick; Viktoria Slater
Subject: Online Form Submission #40555 for Boards, Commissions & Committees Application Date: Saturday, September 16, 2023 1:46:10 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: Landmark Preservation Commission
First Name Carla
Last Name McKinney
Address
City Modesto
State CA
Zip Code 95354
Home Phone
Work Phone Field not completed.

Email Address
Occupation Retired
Employer / Business Field not completed.

Business Address Field not completed.

City Field not completed.

State Field not completed.

Zip Code Field not completed.

Education AA degree in Behavioral and Social Services
#2..
- 48 -
(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?
7/14/1954
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?
Yes
If yes, in what
capacity?
parks and recreation
Inclusive dates: 6/1/1972 - 9/1/1972
#2..
- 49 -
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.

An expired teaching Credential in Public Services and
Administration Worked for Stanislaus County BHS and CSA for over 30 years.

What is it about this
position that interests
you?
Saving Modesto's cherished landmarks
What qualities,
experience, and
expertise would you
bring to it?
Lng time resident of Modesto. Worked on a number of
committees.as part of my job at Community Services Agency (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 #2..
- 50 -
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..
- 51 -
From: [email protected]
To: Optimize; Amber Dick; Viktoria Slater
Subject: Online Form Submission #40627 for Boards, Commissions & Committees Application Date: Tuesday, September 19, 2023 4:52:08 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: Landmark Preservation Commission
First Name John
Last Name Beard
Address
City Modesto
State Ca
Zip Code 95355
Home Phone
Work Phone Field not completed.

Email Address
Occupation Nurse
Employer / Business Retired
Business Address Field not completed.

City Field not completed.

State Field not completed.

Zip Code Field not completed.

Education Field not completed.
#2..
- 52 -
(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?
6/20/1963
Registered Voter
Requirement
I understand that I must be a registered voter in the City of Modesto to apply for this committee or commission.

Do you have relatives
or a member of your
No
#2..
- 53 -
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.

Field not completed.

What is it about this
position that interests
you?
Being able to help the community
What qualities,
experience, and
expertise would you
bring to it?
Retired nurse, and wanting to help with my 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.
#2..
- 54 -
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..
- 55 -
From: [email protected]
To: Optimize; Amber Dick; Viktoria Slater
Subject: Online Form Submission #40526 for Boards, Commissions & Committees Application Date: Thursday, September 14, 2023 3:05:01 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: Landmark Preservation Commission
First Name Lloyd
Last Name Ellis
Address
City Modesto
State California
Zip Code 95354
Home Phone
Work Phone Field not completed.

Email Address
Occupation Mechanic
Employer / Business Silgan containers
Business Address 567 S. Riverside Dr.

City Modesto
State California
Zip Code 95354
Education High school
#2..
- 56 -
(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?
5/15/2002
Registered Voter
Requirement
I understand that I must be a registered voter in the City of Modesto to apply for this committee or commission.

Do you have relatives
or a member of your
No
#2..
- 57 -
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.

Field not completed.

What is it about this
position that interests
you?
Field not completed.

What qualities,
experience, and
expertise 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.
#2..
- 58 -
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..
- 59 -
From: [email protected]
To: Optimize; Amber Dick; Viktoria Slater
Subject: Online Form Submission #43221 for Boards, Commissions & Committees Application Date: Monday, December 4, 2023 3:06:27 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: Landmark Preservation Commission
First Name Mark
Last Name Farrish
Address
City Modesto
State Ca
Zip Code 95350
Home Phone
Work Phone Field not completed.

Email Address
Occupation Truck driver
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.
#2..
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(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?
12/21/1974
Registered Voter
Requirement
I understand that I must be a registered voter in the City of Modesto to apply for this committee or commission.

Do you have relatives
or a member of your
No
#2..
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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.

Field not completed.

How did you learn
about the board for
which you are
applying?
Other (Please specify)
If other, please specify: Friends
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 part of the community
What qualities,
experience, and
expertise 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 #2..
- 62 -
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..
- 63 -
From: [email protected]
To: Optimize; Amber Dick; Viktoria Slater
Subject: Online Form Submission #40621 for Boards, Commissions & Committees Application Date: Tuesday, September 19, 2023 12:53:24 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: Landmark Preservation Commission
First Name Naramsen
Last Name Goriel
Address
City Modesto
State CA
Zip Code 95355
Home Phone
Work Phone Field not completed.

Email Address
Occupation Attorney
Employer / Business County
Business Address Field not completed.

City Field not completed.

State Field not completed.

Zip Code Field not completed.

Education Field not completed.
#2..
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(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.

Do you have relatives
or a member of your
No
#2..
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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.

Attorney, Board of Zoning Adjustment, McHenry Museum Board Member.

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 work with LOVE Modesto, I created the Modesto Park Cleanup, I have volunteered with League of Women Voters. I have
volunteered for the Homeless Point in Time Count
What is it about this
position that interests
you?
Preserving Modesto’s historic culture and heritage.

What qualities,
experience, and
expertise would you
bring to it?
I have been on the LPC committee for over 4 years.
(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.
#2..
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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)
Email not displaying correctly? View it in your browser. #2..
- 67 -
From: [email protected]
To: Optimize; Amber Dick; Viktoria Slater
Subject: Online Form Submission #40603 for Boards, Commissions & Committees Application Date: Monday, September 18, 2023 5:18:21 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: Landmark Preservation Commission
First Name Tanya
Last Name Lund
Address
City Modesto
State CA
Zip Code 95350
Home Phone
Work Phone Field not completed.

Email Address
Occupation Social Services Manager
Employer / Business Stanislaus County
Business Address 1010 Tenth Street
City Modesto
State CA
Zip Code 95354
Education Associates Degree in Business Management
#2..
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(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?
4/30/1971
Registered Voter
Requirement
I understand that I must be a registered voter in the City of Modesto to apply for this committee or commission.

Do you have relatives
or a member of your
No
#2..
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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 worked serving the community in social services for the past 17 years. Additionally, I have an associates degree in business management with an emphasis in operations, as well as currently completing my bachelors degree in leadership and management.

How did you learn
about the board for
which you are
applying?
Other (Please specify)
If other, please specify: Field not completed.

Describe your
involvement in
community activities
and civic organizations.
(Do not list partisan
political parties.)
I have been a Girl Scout leader and I have participated in community events.

What is it about this
position that interests
you?
I love Modesto, and I love being a local resident. I also believe in the importance of preserving our history, and I would love to be a part of the group that makes that happen.

What qualities,
experience, and
expertise would you
bring to it?
My experiences serving the community in my employment as well as my desire to increase my community involvement are what I would bring to this role . Additionally, I collaborate well in groups and I enjoy meeting new people and working with others. (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 #2..
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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..
- 71 -
LPC Candidates Bonnie Acree John Beard Lloyd Ellis Mark Farrish Naramsen Goriel Tanya Lund Carla McKinney District 3 6 4 3 5 5 4
Occupation Dental hygienst Retired Nurse Mechanic Truck Driver Attorney Social Services
Manager Retired
LPC Category
Interest in
historic properties
and perservation
Interest in
historic properties
and perservation
Interest in
historic properties
and perservation
Interest in
historic properties
and perservation
Experience in
history,law and
planning
Interest in
historic properties
and perservation
Interest in historic
properties and
perservation
Education
dental hygienst
certification AA left blank High School left blank Law School Associates Degree
in Business
Management
AA degree in Behavorial
and Social Services
Resident of
Modesto? Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
Resistered Voter?Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
Registered in
Stanislaus
County? Have you ever Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
been a City of
Modesto
employee?
No No No No No No Yes - Parks and Rec.

Relevant
experience
I love the classic
car and graffiti
culture. My husband
and I own classic
cars and love being
involved with
community events.

Retired Nurse
wanting to help
with my community Left blank left blank
Has served on the
Landmark
Preservation
Commission for 4
years
My experiences
serving the
community in my
employment as
well as my desire
to increase my
community
involvement are
what I would bring
to this role .

Additionally, I
collaborate well in
groups and I enjoy
meeting new people
and working with
others.

Lng time resident of
Modesto. Worked on a
number of
committees.as part of my
job at Community
Services Agency
#2..
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Community
Invovlement
executive director
of a nonprofit that
job trains those in
our community that
have barriers to
employment left blank Left blank left blank
I work with LOVE
Modesto, I created
the Modesto Park
Cleanup,
I have volunteered
with League of
Women Voters. I
have
volunteered for the
Homeless Point in
Time Count
I have been a Girl
Scout leader and I
have participated
in
community events
An expired teaching
Credential in Public
Services and
Administration Worked
for Stanislaus County
BHS and CSA for
over 30 years.

Which
characteristic
do you meet? general interest general interest general interest general interest Experience in Law general interest general interest What about this
position
interests you?
I am interested in
beautifying Modesto
and keeping our
history alive.

Being able to help
the community Left blank
Being part of the
community
Preserving Modesto’s
historic culture
and heritage.

I love Modesto, and
I love being a
local resident. I
also believe in
the importance of
preserving our
history, and I
would love to be a
part of the group
that makes that
happen
Saving Modesto's
cherished landmarks
#2..
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CITY OF MODESTO

COMMITTEE AGENDA REPORT
DATE OF MEETING:

September 11, 2024
Date: August 21, 2024
TO: Appointments Committee
Jeremiah Williams, Chair
Eric Alvarez, Vice-Chair
Rosa Escutia-Braaton, Member
THROUGH: Joseph P. Lopez, City Manager
FROM: Toby Wells, Director of Engineering Services/City Engineer SUBJECT: Appointments to the Measure L Citizens’ Transportation Sales Tax Commission CONTACT: Toby Wells, Director of Engineering Services/City Engineer [email protected], 209-571-5542
DESCRIPTION:

Consider the appointment of two vacancies on the Measure L Citizens’ Transportation Sales Tax Commission for a four-year term from October 8, 2024 to June 30, 2028 and forwarding to Council for approval. (Funding Source: Not Applicable)
STRATEGIC PLAN ELEMENT:

The recommended action supports the City’s 2020-2025 Strategic Plan Service and Delivery Goals and Strategies – Goal I: “Promote trust and engagement between the community and the City.”
BACKGROUND:

Section 1102 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. The purpose of the Measure L Citizens’ Transportation Sales Tax Commission is to provide oversight of the collection and spending of tax revenue generated by Measure L (Ordinance No. 3656-C.S.).

Pursuant to Citizens’ Transportation Sales Tax Commission Ordinance 3656-C.S. and adopted Bylaws, the Commission shall consist of eleven (11) qualified city residents. Strong consideration shall be given to composing the Commission of:
• 2 members from any bona fide local taxpayer’s association, • 1 member from any bona fide local nonpartisan political organization, • 2 members from bona vide Modesto Neighborhood Associations, • 1 member from any bona fide association representing business, • 1 member from a large business located in the City,
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Appointments Committee, June 5, 2024
Appointments Measure L Citizens’ Transportation Sales Tax Commission

Page 2 of 3 ends

• 1 member from a small business located in the City,
• 2 members from a bona fide labor union with members residing in the City, • 1 member from a former Stanislaus County Civil Grand Jury who has served in that role within the previous 5 years of his or her appointment.

On April 11, 2023, City Council approved Resolution No. 2023-169 adopting the Bylaws for the Measure L Citizen’s Transportation Sales Tax Commission. The adopted Bylaws provide the terms of office and allow for the reappointment for up to two terms.

DISCUSSION:

Citizen’s Transportation Sales Tax Commission has two seats open for new appointments. A summary of the current filled and vacant seats, by representation, is listed and explained below:

Seat Representing Status
1 Local Taxpayer's Association Incumbent
2 Local Taxpayer's Association Incumbent
3 Local Nonpartisan Political Organization Incumbent
4 Modesto Neighborhood Association Incumbent
5 Modesto Neighborhood Association Incumbent
6 Association Representing Business Incumbent
7 Large Business Incumbent
8 Small Business Incumbent
9 Labor Union Incumbent
10 Labor Union Vacant
11 Stanislaus County Civil Grand Jury Vacant
There are currently two seats that remain vacant due to lack of applicants. In accordance with Ordinance No. 3656-C.S., strong consideration shall be given to representatives of the groups shown above, however, any City resident is allowed to serve on the committee and if members of the groups do not apply, the members will be appointed to any vacancy.

Staff continue to post the vacancies on social media, the City website, and send emails to potential applicants. In June and July, a targeted and boosted social media campaign was launched to recruit additional members. We have received two new applications with no previous applications on file.

FISCAL IMPACT:

There is no fiscal impact associated with the appointment action.

RECOMMENDED COMMITTEE ACTION:

Staff Recommendations:

Motion recommending two appointments to the Citizens’ Transportation Sales Tax Commission for a four-year term with a term from October 8, 2024 to June 30, 2028, and forwarding to Council for approval.
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Appointments Committee, June 5, 2024
Appointments Measure L Citizens’ Transportation Sales Tax Commission

Page 3 of 3 ends

Approved by:

Toby Wells, Director of Engineering Services/
City Engineer
Joseph P. Lopez, City Manager
Attachments:

1. Measure L Citizens’ Transportation Sales Tax Commission Bylaws

2. Applications
#3..
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Page 1 ends

Exhibit A

CITIZENS' TRANSPORTATION SALES TAX COMMISSION
BYLAWS
(Approved by City Council: April 11, 2023, Resolution No. 2023-169) #3..
- 77 -

Page 2 ends

Article I. Definitions
Section 1.01 The City Council established a Commission known and designed as the Citizens’ Transportation Sales Tax 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 Citizens’ Transportation Sales Tax Commission.
(b) “Commission” shall mean the Citizens’ Transportation Sales Tax Commission.

Article II. Duties
Section 2.01 Pursuant to MMC 8-10.101(a):
“A Citizen’s Transportation Sales Tax Commission, hereinafter “Commission,” is hereby established for the purpose of providing oversight of the collection and spending of tax revenue from any local transportation sales tax. For purposes of this chapter, a “local transportation sales tax” is defined as a sales tax imposed on City residents for purposes of generating funds to specifically fund the City’s transportation plan; any local tax used to fund general services in the City is not a “local transportation sales tax.” The first such Commission shall be appointed by the Council no later than ninety (90) days from the effective date of the passage of any local dedicated tax imposed for transportation purposes. The Commission shall regularly meet and make recommendations to the Council to provide oversight of any transportation tax then in effect.” Section 2.02 Pursuant to MMC 8-10.101 (b):
“The duties of the Commission shall include, but not be limited to, the following:
(1) Reviewing the annual work plan and priorities for revenue derived from any transportation sales tax then in effect; #3..
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Page 3 ends

(2) Analyzing and commenting on any proposed items in the City budget that would lessen the City’s its commitment to road and street funding from sources of revenue other than any transportation sales tax then in effect;
(3) Reviewing any policies, standards or similar measures that the City uses to set priorities for where revenues from any transportation sales tax then in effect are to be spent; (4) Reviewing any proposals for the City to use bond or similar financing secured by revenues from any transportation sales tax then in effect;
(5) Reviewing any policies, standards or similar measures that the City uses to determine whether work funded by the tax shall be done “in-house” or through outside contracts; and,
(6) Reviewing any other matter the Council deems appropriate related to any local transportation sales tax. The Council shall appropriate adequate funds for the work of the Commission.” Article III. Membership of Commission
Section 3.01 Pursuant to MMC 8-10.102:
“The Commission shall consist of eleven (11) qualified electors residing within the City and shall be appointed by the City Council by resolution pursuant to the provisions below:
(a) Strong consideration shall be given to composing the Commission of:
(1) Two (2) members from any bona fide local taxpayer’s association with tax-exempt status under the relevant
provisions of the Internal Revenue Code;
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Page 4 ends

(2) One (1) member from any 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;
(3) Two (2) members from bona fide Modesto
Neighborhood Associations or organizations with
similar purposes with tax-exempt status under Section
501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code;
(4) One (1) member from any bona fide association
representing business such as a chamber of commerce;
(5) One (1) member from a large business located in the City;
(6) One (1) member from a small business located in the City;
(7) Two (2) members from a bona fide labor union with
members residing in the City; and,
(8) One (1) member from a former Stanislaus County Civil Grand Jury who has served in that role within the
previous five (5) years of his or her appointment.”
(b) No member of the Commission shall be a relative by blood or marriage within the second degree of the Mayor, a member of the Council, any Charter officer, or any department head or deputy department head.
(c) No member of the Commission shall be an employee of the City nor any bargaining unit for employees of the City, nor be a person who receives compensation from the City or from bargaining units of the City in any manner, including
retirement benefits.
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Page 5 ends

(d) 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 state law.
(e) Members of the Commission shall serve without
compensation.
(f) One-half of the Commissioners for the Commission in 2017 shall be appointed to two year terms and one-half shall be appointed to four year terms. Thereafter, each Commissioner shall be appointed to a four year term unless the appointment is to fill a vacancy.

Section 3.02 All Members must complete a Statement of Economic Interest (Form 700) and AB 1234 ethics training by April 1 of each year and when assuming or leaving Commission membership.

Article IV. Terms of Office
No Commissioner shall serve more than two consecutive four year terms on the Commission.

Article V. Attendance at Meetings
Section 5.01 Timely attendance at meetings is expected and necessary to carry out the mission of the Commission. It shall be the responsibility of each Member to know the dates and times of all Commission 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 Commission 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.
#3..
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Page 6 ends

Article VI. Officers and Their Duties
Section 6.01 The Commission shall elect from among its membership a Chairperson, and a Vice Chairperson. The term of office shall be one year.

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, with the consent of the Commission, all ad-hoc Commissions, and shall ensure that the bylaws, rules and regulations as adopted by the Commission 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 Commission Secretary shall be a City staff member, appointed by the Community & Economic Development Department, to serve as secretary to the Commission. 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. An audio recording shall be made at all meetings, retained pursuant to the City’s record retention policies, and shall be made available to all Commissioners by request.

Article VII. Meetings
Section 7.01 Regular meetings of the Commission shall be held not less than at least quarterly, at Tenth Street Place, 1010 Tenth Street Modesto, California.

Section 7.02 Special meetings shall be called by the Chairperson as necessary, in consultation and coordination with the Commission Secretary.

Section 7.03 Meetings may be cancelled by agreement of the Chairperson and Vice Chairperson in coordination with the Commission Secretary.

Section 7.04 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.
#3..
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Page 7 ends

Section 7.05 All meeting agendas will be posted at Tenth Street Place.

Section 7.06 All meetings shall comply with the requirements of the Ralph M. Brown Act.

Section 7.07 A quorum is necessary for the Commission to transact any business. A quorum is six (6) members.

Section 7.08 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 The Standard Code of Parliamentary Procedure 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 & Reports
(h) Matters Too Late For the Agenda
(i) Adjournment
#3..
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Page 8 ends

Article IX. Amendments
Section 9.01 The Bylaws and any future amendments shall be subject to the 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 nor contradict MMC 8-10. 2981909.4
#3..
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Submission ID 1fdf78ee 8a6f 457d 8631 24a5dd19c646 Page 1/9 Boards, Commissions and Committees Application
06/30/2024 1:58 PM (PDT)
Advisory Boards and Commissions Application
City of Modesto

Citizens Transportation Sales Tax Commission
The Citizens Transportation Sales Tax Commission responsibilities are:

1. Reviewing the annual work plan and priorities for revenue derived from any transportation sales tax then in effect;

2. Analyzing and commenting on any proposed items in the City budget that would lessen the City's commitment to road and street funding from sources of revenue other than any transportation sales tax then in effect;

3. Reviewing any policies, standards or similar measures that the City uses to set priorities for where revenues from any transportation sales tax then in effect are to be spent;

4. Reviewing any proposals for the City to use bond or similar financing secured by revenues from any transportation sales tax then in effect;

5. Reviewing any policies, standards or similar measures that the City uses to determine whether work funded by the tax shall be done "in-house" or through outside contracts; and,

6. Reviewing any other matters the Council deems appropriate related to any local transportation sales tax. The Council shall appropriate adequate funds for the work of the Commission.

The Commission consists of 11 members.

Read full ByLaws, membership requirements and view current members and vacancies. citizens transportation sales tax commission
No
No

Yes

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Submission ID 1fdf78ee 8a6f 457d 8631 24a5dd19c646 Page 2/9 i.

Citizens Districting Commission
01/01/2021
04/30/2022
#3..
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Submission ID 1fdf78ee 8a6f 457d 8631 24a5dd19c646 Page 3/9 Applicant Information & Background
Diane
Kroeze
Modesto
California
95355
1 yr MJC high school graduate
Document Uploads
You may upload a cover letter and resume to outline your educational, work and community service experiences. #3..
- 87 -
Submission ID 1fdf78ee 8a6f 457d 8631 24a5dd19c646 Page 4/9 Qualifications

Citizens redistricting commission, Retired CWA member, 40 yrs + pacific Bell to ATT Co.. last position in Bell company was a System Tech. required working alone in other towns and different shift work in Central work office. Finding trouble and physically fixing it if there. Also with other people.

facebook post

Modesto citizens action group MOCAG, Peace Life Center
Citizen involvement needed

I am 83 yrs old, worked as waitress when I was 17 then in 1963 joined the BELL Company Family. Years of interacting with people and the Work of living as all people have.

Union member of CWA and active when needed. Still do if know of activity. Not Shy anymore.
#3..
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Submission ID 1fdf78ee 8a6f 457d 8631 24a5dd19c646 Page 5/9 #3..
- 89 -
#3..
- 90 -
Submission ID 1fdf78ee 8a6f 457d 8631 24a5dd19c646 Page 7/9 Questionnaire

Other (Please specify)
facebook
#3..
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Submission ID 1fdf78ee 8a6f 457d 8631 24a5dd19c646 Page 8/9 #3..
- 92 -
Submission ID 1fdf78ee 8a6f 457d 8631 24a5dd19c646 Page 9/9 Signature Agreement
06/30/2024
Thank you for providing this information. After clicking ‘Submit’ you will receive a Submission ID number that can be retained for future reference.

You will be updated by our staff, if necessary, as your submission is processed.

Have a great day!
#3..
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Submission ID 6745ac86 a9bf 486f a510 95baddf6c43d Page 1/3 Boards, Commissions and Committees Application
06/27/2024 10:24 AM (PDT)
Advisory Boards and Commissions Application
City of Modesto

Citizens Transportation Sales Tax Commission
The Citizens Transportation Sales Tax Commission responsibilities are:

1. Reviewing the annual work plan and priorities for revenue derived from any transportation sales tax then in effect;

3. Reviewing any policies, standards or similar measures that the City uses to set priorities for where revenues from any transportation sales tax then in effect are to be spent;

4. Reviewing any proposals for the City to use bond or similar financing secured by revenues from any transportation sales tax then in effect;

5. Reviewing any policies, standards or similar measures that the City uses to determine whether work funded by the tax shall be done "in-house" or through outside contracts; and,

6. Reviewing any other matters the Council deems appropriate related to any local transportation sales tax. The Council shall appropriate adequate funds for the work of the Commission.

The Commission consists of 11 members.

Read full ByLaws, membership requirements and view current members and vacancies.

Local labor union
No
No

No
Applicant Information & Background
Matthew
Holbrook
#3..
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#3..
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Submission ID 6745ac86 a9bf 486f a510 95baddf6c43d Page 3/3

Questionnaire

Other (Please specify)
X
Signature Agreement
06/27/2024
Thank you for providing this information. After clicking ‘Submit’ you will receive a Submission ID number that can be retained for future reference.

You will be updated by our staff, if necessary, as your submission is processed.

Have a great day!
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CITY OF MODESTO

COMMITTEE AGENDA REPORT
DATE OF MEETING:

September 11, 2024
Date: August 21, 2024
TO: Appointments Committee
Jeremiah Williams, Chair
Eric Alvarez, Vice Chair
Rosa Escutia-Braaton, Member
THROUGH: Joseph P. Lopez, City Manager
FROM: Jeremy Rogers, Director of Parks, Recreation and Neighborhoods SUBJECT: Modesto Youth Commission Appointments
CONTACT: John Skeel, Recreation and Neighborhoods Services Manager, [email protected], 209-577-5216
DESCRIPTION:

Consider the appointment of eleven members to the Modesto Youth Commission for a two-year term from October 9, 2024, to August 31, 2026, 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:

On June 28, 2020, Council adopted Resolution No. 2022-290, reconvening the Youth Commission. The Modesto Youth Commission (Youth Commission) provides opportunities for Modesto high school students to participate in governmental processes, expand civic participation, and share ideas, recommendations, and youth perspectives. On June 25, 2024, Council adopted Resolution No. 2024-237, approving an update to the Youth Commission Bylaws to expand the number of seats from nine to seventeen and expanding the appointment term from one year to two years.

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.
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Modesto Youth Commission Appointment s

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2. Formulate and recommend programs to the City Council relating to the concerns and needs of youth in the City of Modesto.

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 Youth Commission is comprised of seventeen (17) members who attend a high school within the boundaries of the City of Modesto and are enrolled full-time in high school. Members are appointed for two years, September through August. The City’s standard Board, Commission, and Committee application was supplemented with questions specific to youth interests and experience.

DISCUSSION:

The Youth Commission has eleven vacancies with eighteen applications for consideration.

Vacancies were advertised on social media, the City’s website and by current and former Youth Commissioners. Online applications were accepted from July 1 through August 19, 2024. The eighteen applications were received from new applicants that did not participate in the 2023- 2024 term.

The 2023-2024 Youth Commission had a successful year reaching out and connecting to the youth of Modesto. Accomplishments included:
 Council approval of Resolution No. 2024-237 to update the Youth Commission Bylaws  Partnering with the Park Youth Committee for Council approval of Resolution No. 2024- 155 to set Modesto’s commitment to creating equitable parks and protective and healthy environments.
 Presenting to middle school students on government policies and opportunities  Participating in a LoveModesto clean up
 Creating a social media campaign.

The City’s Appointment Committee will review applications and make appointment recommendations for Council’s consideration and approval. Those applicants not appointed to #4..
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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 or the Youth Commission’s $5,000 budget for programs and activities.

RECOMMENDED COMMITTEE ACTION:

Staff Recommendations:

Motion recommending the appointment of eleven members to the Modesto Youth Commission for a two-year term from October 9, 2024, to August 31, 2026, and forwarding to Council for approval.

Approved by:

Jeremy Rogers, Director of Parks, Recreation &
Neighborhoods
Joseph P. Lopez, City Manager
Attachments:

1. YC Bylaws

2. Application Summary

3. Applications
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Youth Commission Bylaws
Amended 6/25/2024 – Resolution No. 2024-237 Page 1

YOUTH COMMISSION
BYLAWS
Adopted June 28, 2022, by Resolution No. 2022-290;
Amended June 25, 2024, by Resolution No. 2024-237
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
Amended 6/25/2024 – Resolution No. 2024-237 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 seventeen (17) 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
(All Seventeen Commissioners)
Two years, appointed by City Council.

Section 3.02 Eleven (11) members of the Commission shall be from one of the schools outlined below, with one seat designated per school, and six (6) seats for members at-large. If no qualified applications are received from a school listed below, that seat will convert to an at-large position for the remainder of the school year. #4..
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Youth Commission Bylaws
Amended 6/25/2024 – Resolution No. 2024-237 Page 3
(a) Beyer High School, Big Valley Christian School, Central Catholic High School, Davis High School, Downey High School, Elliot Alternative Education Center, Enochs High School, Gregori High School, Johansen High School, Modesto Christian School, Modesto High School Section 3.03 Youth Commissioners must either:
(a) Be a full-time student enrolled in a City of Modesto high school; or (b) Be a full-time student enrolled in a homeschool program with accredited curriculum and reside within the boundaries of the City of Modesto.

Section 3.04 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 3.05 All appointments to the Commission shall be recommended by the City’s Appointments Committee and approved by the City Council.

Section 3.06 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 two (2) consecutive full terms or past graduation, whichever comes first.

Section 4.02 A full term is two (2) years in duration.

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

Section 4.04 Full term appointments begin on September 1 and expire on August 31.

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.

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 pursuant to Section 3.05. When a vacancy occurs during a term, the appointment to fill such vacancy shall be for the unexpired portion of the term.
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Youth Commission Bylaws
Amended 6/25/2024 – Resolution No. 2024-237 Page 4
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 eligible for membership 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 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.
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Youth Commission Bylaws
Amended 6/25/2024 – Resolution No. 2024-237 Page 5
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.

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. Commission Members shall become inactive after graduation.

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
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Youth Commission Bylaws
Amended 6/25/2024 – Resolution No. 2024-237 Page 6
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. #4..
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2024 ‐ 2025 Youth Commission Application and Vacancy Summary Matrix Page App. Page Category Grade Candidate Application History 1 1 Central Catholic High 12 Gulsayn Grewal None
1 5 Davis 10 Julianna Garcia None
2 9 Downey 10 Izzy Altadonna None
2 13 At Large 10 Rudra Patel Applied for 23/24 Term
3 17 At Large 9 Niya Kundiyana None
3 21 At Large 10 Hasan Modan Applied for 23/24 Term
4 25 At Large 9 Deen Wafa None
4 29 At Large 10 Neha Prabhakar Applied for 23/24 Term
5 33 At Large 10 Rudraansh Korlakunta None
6 38 At Large 10 Valentina Zeff None
6 43 At Large 11 Christopher‐Krew Masterson None
7 47 At Large 11 Ibrahim Khan None
8 51 At Large 11 Gurnoor Jhatu None
8 55 At Large 11 Josephine Hughes None
9 59 At Large 11 Zoya Gagan None
9 63 At Large 12 Benjamin Parke None
10 67 At Large 12 Henry Kinzie None
10 71 At Large 12 Myra Belkahla None
Current Commissioners Filled Positions
Hamza Modan Enochs
Belle Garza Gregori
Kayvon Banankhah Modesto High
Saida Alvarez (Modesto High) At Large ‐ 1
Martin Montez (Gregori) At Large ‐ 2
Sabrina Toor (Modesto High) At Large ‐ 3
At Large ‐ Modesto Christian
Unfilled Positions
Central Catholic High
Davis
Downey
At Large ‐ 4
At Large ‐ 5
At Large ‐ 6
At Large ‐ Beyer
At Large ‐ Big Valley Christian
At Large ‐ Elliot
At Large ‐ Johansen
Page Summary
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Candidate Gulsayn Grewal Julianna Garcia
School Central Catholic High Davis
Grade Senior Sophomore
App. History None None
Criteria Met? Yes Yes
Describe your
involvement in
community
and/or school
activities and
organizations.

I am elated to say I am proud of the community I
come from and try my hardest to make it the best it
can be by participating in various activities such as
hosting blood drives at my local temple, playing the
harmonium at my temple and donating the
proceeds to the Stanislaus county children’s crisis
line. I am elated to say I am the founder of my
schools stewardship club where we recycle and
use the proceeds to buy fabrics to hand make
blankets for newborns. As for organizations I am
the founder of my own non profit, “AAPI” and on the
board of various other non profits.

I am involved in several extracurricular clubs and activities including being Vice President of Speech and Debate Club, where I compete in “congress” as well as an attorney in mock trials. I am Vice President of Project Her, a school club that promotes and celebrates individual differences, expression, dignity and acceptance. I have student government experience as Freshman class president and ASB executive media director. I am relaunching the Davis newspaper, The Corinthian. I am involved in the community by volunteering at Love Modesto, retirement communities, and school beautification activities. I also helped build beds for children in need through the Sleep in Heavenly Peace program. I compete in cross-country, tennis, and swimming as a student athlete and fundraise to help offset the costs. I understand the need for school/work/home life balance, and time management. These experiences have taught me that community involvement is about fostering connections and promoting civic duty. ** What qualities,
experience,
and expertise
would you
bring to the
Board,
Commission or
Committee?
I have a unique blend of qualities to bring to the
board. I have experience in leadership through my
roles in various community organization such as
the Stanislaus county leadership academy and the
rotary leadership district awardee, and as a
speaker at significant events. I am committed to
service; today I received the 2023 silver
presidential service award. My experience includes
my internship at the DA’s office with hands on legal
system experience enhancing my understanding of
civic engagement. Lastly, my expertise come from
my non- profit I founded called AYR, recognized by
the White House at the United we stand summit.

This emphasizes my expertise in activism and
educational programming. **
My experiences in student leadership have prepared me with the desired qualities of a commissioner. Through my experience in the various clubs that I am part of, I have developed an easy public speaking style, quick wit, and a tempered approach that is critical for conveying ideas to my peers in a way that they can understand.

These experiences have also galvanized my commitment to inclusivity and social awareness, which are vital for representing diverse perspectives. My experience as a media director opened my eyes to the need for efficient and effective communication strategies and broadened my ability to communicate with the student body. My role as freshman class president taught me the importance of representing and advocating for my peers’ interests. Additionally, my work in launching a school newspaper showcases my ability to bring my ideas to life and take initiative. My involvement in Mock Trial has afforded me a glance into the world of rhetoric, which is valuable for discussions, argumentation, and decisionmaking processes. Furthermore, my consistent community service demonstrates a strong sense of civic duty and understanding of local needs that scope out beyond my school community. My experiences as well as my open mind will make me an asset to the Youth Commission. **
Why do you
want to serve
on the Youth
Commission?
I am passionate about empowering young people
and amplifying their voices in decision- making
processes. By serving on this commission, I hope
to contribute to policies and initiatives that address
the needs of the youth, fostering a more inclusive
and responsive community.

I have a genuine desire to help people, especially my peers. Serving on this committee would allow me to channel this passion into meaningful action. I find great satisfaction in seeing progression in my community and contributing to the development of youth. I value a sense of belonging and being a part of an initiative that will make a significant difference in our community. This committee aligns with my aspirations and will allow me to meaningfully contribute to our community while gaining valuable leadership skills and civic involvement. ** What do you
see as the
primary issues
currently
impacting
youth in our
community?
I see mental health as the primary issue currently
impacting the youth in your community. The
pressures of academic achievement, social
dynamics, and the pervasive influence of social
media have significantly increased stress and
anxiety amongst young people. Many lack
adequate mental health resources and support
systems, leading to the feeling of isolation and
hopelessness.

As a young person in our community, I frequently see issues that significantly impact our youth. Mental health is a rising issue in our group. We are under immense pressure to succeed socially, academically, and in extracurricular activities. The constant push for achievement drastically affects our self-esteem and causes anxiety and depression. Financial stability is another growing issue impacting our youth; unfortunately, due to high prices, many young people struggle to afford necessities, and in some scenarios, it is a setback that holds them from thriving. Addressing these issues is the first step to finding solutions; it will require support from all aspects of the community to ensure the well-being and success of our youth.

What do you
enjoy doing
with your free
time?
I enjoy playing tennis. I find it’s my outlet to get
away from the real world and all my stress going
on. When I’m on the court I drop everything from
the real world and just focus on the game.

My greatest joy is being creative and spending time with my loved ones. I love painting, baking (especially for my friends and family), crocheting, and creative writing. Being creative is truly second nature to me, and I try my best to foster it even when I am busy. I am very close with my family and we do many things together, I also spend a lot of time with my best friends. ** ** Edited due to space constraints, full text on application. Page 1 #4..
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Candidate Izzy Altadonna Rudra Patel
School Downey Modesto High
Grade Sophomore Sophomore
App. History None Applied for 23/24 Term
Criteria Met? Yes Yes
Describe your
involvement in
community
and/or school
activities and
organizations.

Leadership, clubs, honor roll, csf,
volleyball and basketball teams.

I am involved with numerous school activities and my community. Mock trial and speech and debate teams gave insight into public policy and law, leading me to become a fellow on Mayor Zwahlen’s campaign. I learned the importance of field research and brought societal conflicts to life through writing with the academic decathlon and being Vice President of my school's newspaper. As President of the Stanislaus County Outreach Volunteer Organization, I manage projects such as raising money to create dog beds for at-risk animals at local shelters. I also bring student voices to the Modesto City Schools District. I help bring students’ voices to the Student Advisory Council (SAC). I advocate for budget allocations in programs such as career readiness and access to technology at the Local Control and Accountability Plan Committee (LCAP) for Modesto City Schools. I joined the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) as a Legislative Ambassador. I am the co-chair of the ACS Society of Emerging Leaders in the Council of Emerging Leaders (CELC), and I continue to advocate for projects throughout California to increase the quality of life for cancer patients and survivors during and after their treatment. **
What qualities,
experience,
and expertise
would you
bring to the
Board,
Commission or
Committee?
Strong engagement and decision
making skills from my leadership
class. Learned how to be apart of
a team through participating on
multiple sports teams. I know
how to dedicate myself and focus
on a job until it’s finished or
completed.

I would bring my skills in advocacy and public speaking to the Youth Commission to ensure that I maximize my impact as a young leader. My Speech and debate and mock trial experience honed my communication skills and a growth mindset to effectively convey my ideas, and listen to others’ perspectives. My journalism experience enables me to further develop efforts in bringing awareness to local issues with the intent of creating passion and unity throughout our community. Much like my time in ACS CAN, working with adults to promote bills and advocacy projects, I will bring my collaborative efforts and problem-solving skills to engage in Modesto’s political process. As a youth commissioner, I will devote my time and effort to the Youth Commission to provide compassion, respect, and integrity to the board to assist in further developing the youth voice. ** Why do you
want to serve
on the Youth
Commission?
I want to be able to have a say in
the issues and decisions make in
our community.

I want to serve on the Youth Commission because I believe this platform amplifies the youth voice needed in order to make effective change to our city. I value the Youth Commission because it would allow me to be surrounded by like-minded individuals that are passionate in growing and strengthening Modesto. The Youth Commission’s approach to teamwork and civic organization is unique in its approach to dealing with local government affairs as it allows the youth to implement their diverse perspectives to ensure fairness and equity for all. By serving on this commission, I believe I would be able to work with my peers, and create a lasting impact for our community, fulfilling my passion for facilitating others in the process.

What do you
see as the
primary issues
currently
impacting
youth in our
community?
Community engagement. Having
safe places for us to come
together and spend our time.

Poor education on the long term
affects of substance abuse and
addiction. Creating more support
for teens and children needing
more than just a place to live.

The primary issue I see impacting the youth in our community is a clear social divide with youth.

Religion, politics, difference in values, or wealth, should not have a strenuous impact on our social relationships. Oftentimes, I have noticed that the circumstances and the diverse population of our society have become points of divide, rather than conversation. For example, close peers of mine have cut ties amongst one another due to differences in religion. Many of my classmates find that variations in political viewpoint to be a separation point. Instead of using these differences to spark conversation to gain perspective and understanding, it has only led to a widening disparity. With the rise in peer social pressure to engage in substance use behaviors, there is an increasing sense for conformity, and disdain for diversity. If nothing is done about it, our future generations will not be united, and as a member of the youth commission, it would be my goal to work with my peers to overcome this social divide and address this issue **
What do you
enjoy doing
with your free
time?
Playing sports, swimming,
traveling, spending time with
friends and family.

In my free time, I enjoy playing basketball and playing piano. Ever since I was five years olds, my passion for playing sports has only grown. The main sport I enjoy playing is basketball since over the 10 years I have played it, my love for the game has strengthened. Basketball increases my competitive nature and promotes self-discipline to be the best I can be everyday, since I know I can get better. On the other hand, playing piano calms my attitude and allows me to focus on the present rather than worrying about the past or future.
** Edited due to space constraints, full text on application. Page 2 #4..
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Candidate Niya Kundiyana Hasan Modan
School Modesto High Gregori
Grade Freshman Sophomore
App. History None Applied for 23/24 Term
Criteria Met? Yes Yes
Describe your
involvement in
community
and/or school
activities and
organizations.

My community involvement varies immensely including
volunteering at the Hughson Arboretum and planting
trees and co-coaching non-profit soccer teams. I was
School President in Junior High, and worked with
student council members to better the school. Together, we were able to raise money for school activities to grow participation and enthusiasm. We also reduced schoolwide violence and behavior significantly. I strive to help people who do not have the same opportunities as me. I
am proud to support people who live under different
circumstances and may not receive the necessary
resources. Providing these resources makes me feel like I am positively impacting my community and the not-asfortunate people around me. ** I started my own nonprofit: Sole Support- aimed at providing athletic equipment, support and opportunities to disadvantaged youth and communities. I have participated in Love Modesto through my local mosque, as well as other initiatives to bring people closer to their community. I've been involved in high school volunteering clubs, such as CSF or Interact, for which I am the secretary.

Through these, I have had the opportunity to volunteer at the Peace Officer Memorial Run and the Modesto Marathon. I volunteer at Sutter Gould Medical Foundation every week, guiding patients and helping physicians. I am involved in projects to improve physician patient communications. Finally, I serve as a member of a local nonprofit, the Park Youth Committee, aimed at restoring and rejuvenating the Tuolumne River Park, as well as giving community members equitable opportunities to go to safe and clean parks in the city.

What qualities,
experience,
and expertise
would you
bring to the
Board,
Commission or
Committee?
I would bring leadership qualities and the ability to speak for my fellow classmates on how to increase student
participation in the community. I would be able to speak about matters impacting youth and provide contact
between adolescents and the city council.

I have a passion to serve the community. I have volunteered at local school and community level events, and I would like to expand to serve 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, to provide an outlet and support system, away from gangs and other dangers. Finally, I will bring my organizational skills to this committee. Through my nonprofit as well as the Park Youth Committee, I have catered events, managed funds to bring new ideas to fruition, and engaged people in new projects. **
Why do you
want to serve
on the Youth
Commission?
I want a chance to have a voice in my community and
make significant impacts that improve my classmates
daily lives.

The Park Youth Committee provided me a perspective that youth are valued and can help Modesto's poorer parks. The Youth Commission will give me a larger reach to continue to voice my concerns about Modesto's children. I want to make a positive change that can be facilitated by this commission for the future of Modesto. As I walk around Modesto, I have always noticed the irritations and discomforts, and I believe as part of the Youth Commission, I can be a part in changing Modesto by utilizing my experience and skills and making sure that issues faced by todays youth are amended. **
What do you
see as the
primary issues
currently
impacting
youth in our
community?
Primary issues in my community are promoting violence,
drug abuse, and mental health issues. Students need
more support in their daily lives and I want to be the
voice that gets to communicate these issues.

Our mental health crisis is the most challenging post-covid reality for a majority of youth in the Stanislaus county. With the lack of parental guidance in vulnerable, youth depend on , often dangerous support systems, and can be trapped in a gang or drug environment. Expanding education opportunities 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 positions.

What do you
enjoy doing
with your free
time?
I do competitive soccer, reading, working on my farm,
and spending time with my family and pet. I am also
actively seeking and pursuing opportunities to get
admitted into my dream college, Columbia University. I
work to achieve my dreams and with the support of my
parents I have been able to better my chances for a
greater future and endeavor.

I run for my high school cross country and track team, and volunteer at Sutter Gould Medical Foundation every Wednesday after school. I am part of CSF and I am secretary of my high school interact club. I have also been involved in Debate, Math Olympiad, and Science Olympiad teams. I am organizing events for my nonprofit Sole Support, attempting to garner support and create community ties.
** Edited due to space constraints, full text on application. Page 3 #4..
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Candidate Deen Wafa Neha Prabhakar
School Gregori Enochs
Grade Freshman Sophomore
App. History None Applied for 23/24 Term
Criteria Met? Yes Yes
Describe your
involvement in
community
and/or school
activities and
organizations.

While I was attending Prescott Junior High School, I was chosen to represent our school's leadership class. I was also a part of our school's CJSF program (California Junior Scholarship Federation). In this program, you are required to do 10 hours of community service, both outside and inside of school, every semester. As I'm entering my freshman year of High School, I also got accepted to Gregori High School's leadership program. At the time of applying, I don't know yet, but I will also be trying to become treasurer of the freshman class.

I actively volunteer at Sutter health memorial medical center, gaining valuable experience in healthcare and supporting community well-being. Additionally, I participate in environmental justice programs, advocating for sustainable practices. At school, I’m involved in the Speech and Debate team in which I have gone to state tournaments and various clubs, where I develop leadership skills and engage in meaningful projects. My commitment to these activities reflects my dedication to making a positive impact both in my community and academic environment. I also will be a part of my school's South Asian Student Alliance club officer, The school's new Create For Kids club officer, and president of the new women empowerment club at Enochs. These new voyages help me work with the community as well as all schools in the district.

What qualities,
experience,
and expertise
would you
bring to the
Board,
Commission or
Committee?
Some qualities I would bring to the table is being a motivator, taking initiative when other people don't want to, and always trying my best. I already have experience in multiple youth leader programs and at a young age that's valuable. Some expertise I have is I can be open minded and always cooperate with others.

I bring a strong commitment to service, leadership, and academic excellence to the Commission. My past leadership and volunteering gave me a deep understanding of community needs and a passion for making a positive impact. As an active member and officer of various school clubs, I have developed strong communication, problem-solving, and teamwork skills. These experiences taught me to approach challenges with a collaborative and solutionoriented mindset. I will bring new innovative ideas and plans to execute them to better impact Modesto's youth. **
Why do you
want to serve
on the Youth
Commission?
I want to serve on the youth commission to do my best to make our community a better place and hopefully by the end of it, I would have made a big enough impact to change Modesto for the better.

I want to serve on the Youth Commission because I am passionate about creating positive change within our community. I believe that youth voices are crucial in shaping the future. My experiences in volunteering, advocacy, and school activities taught me the importance of community engagement and leadership. I hope to contribute my skills and perspectives to address the needs and interests of young people in our city. I am eager to collaborate with others to develop innovative solutions and programs that will make a meaningful impact on our community. **
What do you
see as the
primary issues
currently
impacting
youth in our
community?
The primary issue I see in our youth community is engagement. The youth aren't participating in activities as much as they used to in the past. Teen and tweens nowadays are glued to their phones scrolling on TikTok and Instagram, instead of enjoying their lives as kids.

The primary issues currently impacting youth in our community include mental health challenges, access to quality education, and opportunities for meaningful engagement. Many youth face significant stress and anxiety, exacerbated by academic pressures and social challenges. Disparities in educational resources and support affect students’ academic outcomes and future
opportunities. There is a need for more avenues for youth to get involved in community service and leadership activities. These issues require a comprehensive approach includes improving mental health support, ensuring equitable educational resources, and creating more opportunities for youth engagement and development **
What do you
enjoy doing
with your free
time?
In my free time I enjoy playing tennis with family and friends, going on bike rides, hanging out with friends, and occasionally playing video games.

In my free time, I enjoy playing tennis, which helps me stay active and relieve stress. I also love participating in community service.

Additionally, I find relaxation in reading and exploring new topics related to my academic interests. These activities not only enrich my personal life but also align with my commitment to making a positive impact in my community.
** Edited due to space constraints, full text on application. Page 4 #4..
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Candidate Rudraansh Korlakunta
School Gregori
Grade Sophomore
App. History None
Criteria Met? Yes
Describe your
involvement in
community
and/or school
activities and
organizations.

Throughout high school, I've actively engaged in athletics, academics, and community service. As a sophomore, I was on the water polo team, basketball and golf school team. I'm involved in several academic clubs, including National Honor Society, Speech and Debate, Math Blast, Math Olympiad, and Future Business Leaders of America, where I hold a leadership role. My community involvement is diverse and impactful. In January last year, I organized an event providing 250 meals for the Salvation Army, driven by my desire to contribute meaningfully to my community. For over a year, I've been volunteering at XYZ Medical Center, offering physical and emotional support to patients and assisting medical staff with resource management. This summer, I broadened my horizons by attending a camp on Smart Cities and Sustainability in Amsterdam. There, I gained valuable insights into urban innovation and sustainable practices, further fueling my interest in community development and environmental stewardship.

What qualities,
experience,
and expertise
would you
bring to the
Board,
Commission or
Committee?
I would bring a diverse set of qualities, experiences, and expertise to the Youth Committee: Qualities:- Strong critical thinking skills by analyzing problems from multiple perspectives, anticipating potential obstacles, and developing comprehensive, inclusive solutions.- Public speaking confidence: My experience in public settings taught me to articulate ideas clearly and confidently before audiences.

Experiences:- International exposure: I've gained valuable insights into governance and public systems outside the U.S., such as understanding the success factors of public transport in Amsterdam compared to Modesto. Expertise: I'm proficient in coding languages like Python and HTML and posses basic knowledge emerging technologies such as AI principles and large-scale data collection and analysis. This combination of analytical thinking, global perspective, and technical knowledge would enable me to contribute unique and valuable insights to the Youth Committee's initiatives. ** Why do you
want to serve
on the Youth
Commission?
I am passionate about serving on the Youth Commission so I can invest in our city's future through its young people. My motivation stems from a deep-seated belief that education is a powerful, liberating force that can provide purpose and open countless doors for students. In our city, I've observed many students don't fully grasp educational significance or potential impact. To change this, I will leverage my public speaking skills and critical thinking abilities to engage with students in a relatable way, through a resonating, fresh perspective. My ultimate goal is to foster a culture where education is not just valued, but actively sought after by our city's youth. I want to help students recognize that education can empower them to pursue any path they desire. Serving on the Youth Commission would provide me with a platform to make a tangible, positive impact on our city's young people. I'm committed to dedicating my time and efforts to this cause, and I'm grateful for the opportunity to potentially contribute to shaping a brighter future for our youth and, by extension, our entire community. **
What do you
see as the
primary issues
currently
impacting
youth in our
community?
The primary issue affecting youth in our community, is the lack of engaging and comprehensive educational opportunities. This issue manifests in two key areas: 1. Limited Curriculum Diversity that don't fully align with students' interests. At Gregori, students passionate about computer science only have 2 related classes available. Many students lack resources to pursue interests outside of school, limiting and stifling curiosity and career exploration. 2. Current teaching approach and motivation fails to convey the realworld relevance and purpose of subjects, and places excessive emphasis on grades. This leads students to complete work mechanically, without genuine engagement or understanding and contributes to issues like cheating and plagiarism. The Youth Commission can focus on: 1. Advocating for a more diverse and flexible curriculum that caters to a wider range of student interests and future career paths. 2. Promoting teaching methods that emphasize the practical applications and intrinsic value of education, rather than just grades. 3. Encouraging programs that help students explore and express their interests inside and outside the classroom. Addressing these areas will inspire a genuine desire for learning among students, enabling them to better express themselves through education and preparing them more effectively for their futures. ** What do you
enjoy doing
with your free
time?
In my free time, I pursue a variety of interests that challenge me intellectually and physically, while also enjoying the companionship of my pets: Coding is a long-standing passion that leads me to develop new software projects during my spare hours. This hobby sharpens my technical skills and allows me to explore creative solutions to real-world problems. Hiking provides great joy in exploring nature, particularly in the Twain Harte area. I dedicate time to learning new chess strategies and enjoy playing matches, while honing my analytical thinking and strategic planning skills. I'm also passionate about playing video games as it provides entertainment and develops my problem-solving skills, reflexes, and time to socialize with friends online. I devote to my two cute goldendoodles by going for walks, playing in the yard, or simply relaxing together. This time brings me joy and helps me unwind from my other activities.

These diverse interests reflect my enthusiasm for continuous learning, personal growth, and maintaining a balanced lifestyle. My varied hobbies demonstrate my ability to engage with both intellectual challenges and nurturing relationships. ** ** Edited due to space constraints, full text on application. Page 5 #4..
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Candidate Valentina Zeff Christopher-Krew Masterson
School Modesto High Modesto High
Grade Sophomore Junior
App. History None None
Criteria Met? Yes Yes
Describe your
involvement in
community
and/or school
activities and
organizations.

I am extremely involved in my local community. Since January of 2024, I have put in over 100 hours of volunteering at the Modesto Children's Museum by assisting staff and entertaining kids with activities during daily operations and the museum’s science education summer camp. I currently serve as VP and President of the Fundraising Committee for Modesto High School’s Key Club International that promotes community service and friendship. I have led multiple meetings over the school year and organized 3 successful fundraisers to support children suffering in Gaza. This past April, I joined the Parks Youth Committee (PYC), where I created speeches and informational videos for the Modesto City Council to influenced future bills and local laws. I also participate in school and local tennis teams, track teams and have volunteered and participated in the half marathon, Teens Run Modesto. I am in the accelerated learning program, International Baccalaureate (IB) and the school leadership council, Student Senate, full of students wanting to better the school. **
I attend Modesto High School as a full IB program
student maintaining straight A's. There I play football, basketball, and baseball. I've been awarded the
Coaches Choice and Defensive Player of the Year
Award in Basketball and Football. I attended Rose
Avenue for Elementary, La Loma for Junior High, and
was slated to attend Downey High, but when I was
selected for IB, I accepted the transfer. I work at Fun Sport Bikes as a mechanic and enjoy Dry Creek for
bike rides. I was born and raised in Modesto and so
were my mom and dad.

What qualities,
experience,
and expertise
would you
bring to the
Board,
Commission or
Committee?
I have many qualifications that I feel like would make me an ideal candidate for serving on the Modesto Youth Commission Board. I am a leader, proficient public speaker, and believe highly in the power of teamwork and civic duty. I was very active this past school year on the speech and debate team at my high school.

While on the team, I acquired valuable public speaking, debate and problem solving skills. Serving on the Student Senate of my freshman class, I represented the viewpoints of my peers and often gave my input into how we could improve our school as a whole. The experience as a member of the Parks Youth Committee, has taught me the value of protecting and caring for our environment and community. I strongly believe in taking initiative and becoming involved to make our city a better place for all.

What qualifies me for the youth committee is I am
familiar with multiple different youth demographics in
Modesto. I've grown up in North Modesto and East
Modesto, but now that I've been attending Modesto
High School, going on my 3rd year, many of my peers
are from West Modesto. With this background and
diverse peer groups I am well informed of the needs
and wants of the youth in North, East, and West
Modesto. I have a younger sister who is 11 and I want
to make a positive impact in the community for her as
she gets older. I am personable, patient, a critical
thinker and am good at ensuring I understand both
sides of a topic before making my own opinion on it.

Why do you
want to serve
on the Youth
Commission?
I want to serve on the Youth Commission because I would like to gain valuable information on research and community involvement. This commission would allow me to meet influential community mentors that could help me grow and evolve as a leader. My career goal is to be in science and research and I know this commission would support my future aspirations.

I want to serve the Youth Commission because I want
to be an advocate for my peers and a leader among
them. I'd like to learn the local government process and how I can affect change within my community for the
greater good. On top of that, by learning how to impact change within my community I can then forward those
skills into my adult life.

What do you
see as the
primary issues
currently
impacting
youth in our
community?
The primary issues I see impacting the youth in our community is an absence of direction and motivation to live a fulfilling life. I’ve witnessed many of my peers fall into bad habits that lead to self-destructive behaviors. Being a student at Modesto High School, I have seen a lot of drug abuse and violence around the area. I believe the cause of this to be a lack of goals or direction. Their lack of motivation has the ability to harm the people around them, which ultimately erodes the community.

Primary issues I see impacting youth and my peers
within the community are feeling empowered, drug
abuse, lack of transportation or safe walking paths
especially in Western Modesto. As well as, gang
violence overlooked inside of our schools, which are
seeded as a safe space for us. Community outreach to
youth to develop involvement throughout their school
years that would extend into their adulthood.

What do you
enjoy doing
with your free
time?
In my free time I enjoy being active, spending time with friends, and baking for my family. Participating in exercise, such as tennis and running allows me to clear my head and focus on what is important to me. Being with friends always puts a smile on my face because I am a social person that loves to get to know people better.

Baking has always been a big passion of mine and I hope to incorporate it in my future career goal as a scientist. I also like to bake because it is experimentally precise which makes a fun challenge.

In my free time when I'm not at school or doing a
school activity I work at Fun Sport Bikes, volunteer at a local nonprofit for kids arts, music, & sports CoCo AMS, and spend time with my family. I like to ride my bike,
dirt bike, and go to the gym. During the summer I am
one of the Modesto High Students who is lucky enough
to attend the overseas international trips and get to
experience different cultures and communities.
** Edited due to space constraints, full text on application. Page 6 #4..
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Candidate Ibrahim Khan
School Enochs
Grade Junior
App. History None
Criteria Met? Yes
Describe your
involvement in
community
and/or school
activities and
organizations.

In 2023 a good friend of mine invited me to one of the Stanislaus County Youth Empowerment Alliance meetings, at the time I was not sure what the benefit or purpose of such a meeting could be. However, when I arrived there it was to my surprise when the first speaker came up and spoke of her upbringing filled with trials and tribulations, I could not imagine the loneliness she would have felt nor the distress within the sanctity of her own home. Yet she stood there smiling, speaking confidently alongside other speakers. Among these speakers were representatives from the Modesto Youth Commission who following this speech listed numerous resources individuals could utilize so they wouldn’t have to suffer in silence like her. This was my introduction to the Modesto Youth Commission.

What qualities,
experience,
and expertise
would you
bring to the
Board,
Commission or
Committee?

1. Speech and Debate Captain for two years, winning local tournaments and competing in State and National tournaments as debate captain. 2. Science Olympiad Captain for 6 years, since fifth grade, while participating in academic STEM activities. 3.

Varsity Football for 2 years, a foreign world where I learned discipline, perseverance, and mental fortitude. 4. Volunteering at my local masjid for 8+ years. This integral portion of my upbringing, included organizing community events, speaking for the youth, and charity drives 5. Red Cross Club Co-Founder, which I began with a fellow Youth Commissioner to increase public health and volunteering initiatives. This year we will be hosting our first blood drive. ** Why do you
want to serve
on the Youth
Commission?
My strongest characteristic is my perseverance and bravery in persevering in both physical and academic endeavors.

Academically, I persevere to seek opportunities for myself by spending hours on speeches, studying to be top in my classes, and writing science Olympiad notes. A recent struggle to join an AP Calculus class as a junior took months of emailing, researching, and self-studying to gain approval. Physically, I have struggled with weight loss for my entire life. After years of trial and error, I've found a healthy diet, and safe exertion levels resulting in a sense of confidence that many lack. This struggle helps me relate to the detrimental mental health situation many youth face. The final facet of my perseverance was on the football field with no experience beyond “nerdy” academics. I endured physical exertion to extreme levels, taunting that made me want to stay home, and detachment from others. I endured it and was able to enjoy it, receiving awards for my season performance and further building my confidence. My experience in sports, bullying, and academic dedication developed skills and insight I can share with the Youth Commission to influence change. I admire the Commissioners who dedicate their time to benefiting our community and I aspire to do the same. Joining this community expands my horizons and opportunities beyond my high school to benefit the community as a whole **
What do you
see as the
primary issues
currently
impacting
youth in our
community?
What if I told you that COVID-19 was one of many pandemics in the last decade? The pandemic of loneliness, depression, and other mental health issues have all exponentially risen, becoming endemic at times. I truly believe mental health is the greatest issue affecting youth today. I believe that mental health encapsulates our confidence and our perseverance, both of which are tested as I fall repeatedly while playing football at school. I fear that not many youth have the resources to stand back up after the obstacles they face. The rate of trials and tribulations seems to increase while the amount of resources available stagnates. My goal as a Youth Commissioner is to expand awareness of resources. Falling alone is hard; as a Youth Commissioner, I would fall with everyone else and stand up with everyone else! **
What do you
enjoy doing
with your free
time?
I enjoy the process of studying for mandatory school and SAT tests along with studying and speechwriting to boost my academic performance. I spend 4 hours a day after school on the football field, enjoying the discipline it builds and the relationships it makes.

I enjoy learning the rabab, a form of the guitar in my heritage that connects me to my homeland. My greatest pastime is learning my mother's tongue, Pashto. It is an indescribable feeling to be unable to speak with your own family. With only two of my grandparents remaining, I've dedicated years rereading a 300-page book 5 times, making use of US military linguistic programs, and speaking despite massive struggle. I am motivated to use my free time to benefit myself and those around me. ** ** Edited due to space constraints, full text on application. Page 7 #4..
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Candidate Gurnoor Jhatu Josephine Hughes
School Modesto High Modesto High
Grade Junior Junior
App. History None None
Criteria Met? Yes Yes
Describe your
involvement in
community
and/or school
activities and
organizations.

I’m involved in the leadership CASL
Ambassador program outside of school and a
student ambassador program at school. I help
incoming freshmen with the day to day life
and I'm an AVID and International
Baccalaureate student. Outside of school I
volunteer at Doctors Medical Center and
have taken quite a few college classes at
MJC. **
I have taken part in numerous community and school activities and organizations. I have 30+ hours volunteering at the Modesto Childrens Museum, assisting in running activities and keeping things in order. I also am an active part of the Modesto High varsity water polo and swim team. Also at school, I am a member of the Dance Production team and Science Olympiad team. I have experience an ASB leadership student at Modesto High as well. Outside of school I also participate in the Modesto Junior College community orchestra playing violin. I have 30+ hours volunteering at the Modesto Childrens Museum, assisting in running activities and keeping things in order. I also am an active part of the Modesto High varsity water polo and swim team. Also at school, I am a member of the Dance Production team and Science Olympiad team. I have experience an ASB leadership student at Modesto High as well. Outside of school I also participate in the Modesto Junior College community orchestra playing violin.

What qualities,
experience,
and expertise
would you
bring to the
Board,
Commission or
Committee?
I’m a very good communicator and can get
people to voice their opinions openly. I also
am very initiative in teamwork projects and
enjoy working with people as well.

I bring a sense of opened-mindedness and understanding along with experience working with people of all ages. I am good at getting my point across and a motivated worker.

Why do you
want to serve
on the Youth
Commission?
I want to serve on the youth commission so I
can bring in my own perspective on the
issues that are currently happening in our
youth and give some solutions as well for
these issues
I want to serve on the Youth Commission because I am passionate about making sure that our community is equitable to all people, including the youth. It is important to have fresh input and perspectives from the youth of Modesto in order to attain a community that they want to return to.

What do you
see as the
primary issues
currently
impacting
youth in our
community?
The primary issues in today’s youth is
definitely the rise of drug use, racism,
addiction to technology, and the mental
issues such as depression and anxiety which
I’ve seen in my peers.

The primary issues currently impacting youth in our community revolve around drug use, mental health, and violence. Mental heath in particular is a very important subject to discuss from my perspective.

What do you
enjoy doing
with your free
time?
In my free time I enjoy listening to music,
painting, reading classics, taking random
online courses, and baking.

I enjoy playing water polo, playing violin, reading, writing, cooking, and hanging out with family and friends in my free time.
** Edited due to space constraints, full text on application. Page 8 #4..
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Candidate Zoya Gagan Benjamin Parke
School Gregori Gregori
Grade Junior Senior
App. History None None
Criteria Met? Yes Yes
Describe your
involvement in
community
and/or school
activities and
organizations.

Recently I have been volunteering at Sutter Health Hospital as a Junior Volunteer, where I assist with administrative tasks, provide patient support, and help create a positive environment for patients making the hospital more welcoming. In addition, I am also involved in multiple different school clubs like HOSA, Red Cross, Speech and Debate, Mock Trial, Project Change, Asian American Association, and Future Physicians. Through these school clubs, I have developed strong leadership, communication, and teamwork skills, while also contributing to the betterment of my school and local community.

I'm apart of my schools dance production and social media team, JNN. I also dance at 5678 dance studio and run cross country and track on Gregori’s varsity team. I volunteer often, such as Love Modesto, catering at galas for local school fundraisers. I was also apart of key club at my previous school in Tennessee for my freshman and sophomore year where we teamed up with Kiwanis and volunteered at local restaurants to raise money for service projects.

What qualities,
experience,
and expertise
would you
bring to the
Board,
Commission or
Committee?
My volunteer work at a Sutter Health has helped me gain many skills including essential organizational and interpersonal skills as well as creating a sense of leadership amongst my teammates. In addition, my participation in different in school extracurricular activities helped my communication, strategic planning, and teamwork skills. These experiences make me well prepared to contribute to the Youth Committee’s goals for Modesto, helping to develop and implement initiatives that can positively impact our town.

I've got a sufficient amount of volunteering experience that I can bring to the committee while also qualities, such as: social media abilities, editing and filming, athletic, extrovert, and friendly.

Why do you
want to serve
on the Youth
Commission?
I want to start contributing to the Youth Commission for the well being and development of our community's youth. My experiences and challenges today have shown me the importance of advocacy and proactive engagement in addressing the needs and challenges faced by today's generation. By serving on the Commission, I hope to use my skills and experiences to create meaningful changes and ensure that the voices of all youth are heard and valued.

I enjoy volunteering and youth commission will give me the ability to schedule volunteering events. I also want to serve because I get to meet peers who are just as passionate about volunteering as I am while also having the opportunity to meet local council men and get a deeper understanding of local government
What do you
see as the
primary issues
currently
impacting
youth in our
community?
Some of the primary issues facing our community's youth include mental health challenges, educational disparities, and a lack of safe, inclusive spaces for personal and social development. Mental health, in particular, has become a critical area of concern, with many young people needing more support and resources.

And it’s even worse for youth, like I mentioned before, down town Modesto hosts dozens of high school proms. Those are iconic once in a life time core moments and if I can do anything to prevent the homeless from ruining it and make it more safe for everyone who goes then why shouldn’t I.

What do you
enjoy doing
with your free
time?
In my free time, I enjoy playing tennis, reading a variety of books, and baking. I also love spending time with friends and participating in various other extracurricular activities.

Dancing! I love love love dancing. Contemporary mainly
but I still dance hip hop and jazz. I also spend a lot of my time running and getting my miles up. I’m always finding 5k’s or even 10k’s. I think a half marathon, which is 13.1 miles, is kind of pushing it but I think I’ll be ok if I go with friends. Anyway, dancing, running, And also baking. I try to do it often as much as I can but now that my Nona is
visiting for the summer, I’m sure I will be spending more time baking
Throughout the past few years at Enochs, I have participated in several on campus clubs, including the Red Cross Club, History Club, Academic Decathlon, CSF, Environmental Club, and Speech and Debate. I have also held leadership positions for other clubs, including being the President of the MENA Club, the Vice President of the Key Club, the treasurer of the Badminton club, and a representative on the School's Site Council. I have also participated on my school's Track & Field Team for four years. In my community, I have served as an intern for the CAPs program which consisted of researching the climate change actions and efforts made by the Modesto City School District. As well as participated in Kaiser's Think Neuro internship which consisted of researching ways to aid those who have become homeless due to California's opioid crisis. This upcoming year I will also be partaking in the Stanislaus county's Leadership Academy
What qualities,
experience,
and expertise
would you
bring to the
Board,
Commission or
Committee?
I would bring a fresh perspective and an open mind to the Commission. I have always had a curiosity to learn more about our community and how to help as well as to hear
about other’s perspectives and situations. Along with that I see youth participation in our community as incredibly
important, as shown by my activity in our school’s Student Senate. I know that our community needs our input and
involvement to constantly improve. Other qualities I have include patience and understanding, as well as a readiness to help out whenever necessary
I believe that through my various roles on officer boards, committees, and research groups, I have gained the necessary collaboration, leadership, and organizational skills needed for the Youth Committee. I believe by pairing these skills with creativity and transparency I can successfully work with the committee to ensure the best decision, that will benefit everyone included, is made
Why do you
want to serve
on the Youth
Commission?
I want to be an active participant in my community and I would love to provide my help and input wherever it is
needed. I also know how important it is to provide
representation to a large demographic of our community
who can tend to feel unheard. I believe providing the city with perspective from our youth is incredibly beneficial.

I would like to serve on the Youth Commission to be able to represent the youth of my school, neighborhood, and that have a similar background to me, in the decisions that pertain to them. It would be a great honor to be able to serve on a governmental committee that seeks to solve real-world problems, while also providing youth such as myself with the experience of having such a valuable role in the community.

What do you
see as the
primary issues
currently
impacting
youth in our
community?
I believe the primary issues impacting our youth is a
general apathy for our community. I believe this has been brought on by social media and its bombardment on young people with too much of a world view and too little of a communal view. While I believe it is important to
understand and know issues impacting the world around
us, I believe our youth is overstimulated by social media and tends to forget how important our community is. No
matter how small the city around us feels, our city holds great importance and impact on our lives and I believe the youth need to be better involved in our community.

In our community, I see many issues related to the pressure of doing activities that involve drugs and smoking. I see a lot of youth suffering from addiction to vapes and similar paraphernalia. I see a lot of issues relating to safety and many youth who feel unsafe in our community. I also see a lot of issues relating to isolation and struggles with mental health issues like anxiety and depression.

What do you
enjoy doing
with your free
time?
I enjoy being active in all sorts of ways. I enjoy playing sports, working out, doing yard work which I know is a little odd but putting in work and seeing positive results is
fulfilling for me, and hanging out with friends. I also find enjoyment from reading classic literature and even comic books from time to time.

In my free time, I enjoy cooking, going for walks reading, and watching movies with my little sister. I love trying new things so it always brings me much joy to try new recipes, new walking routes, and new movies. ** Edited due to space constraints, full text on application. Page 10 #4..
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Submission ID 814a143e b45d 4e29 9578 6a253b9facd5 Page 1/8 Boards, Commissions and Committees Application
07/22/2024 5:33 PM (PDT)
Advisory Boards and Commissions Application
City of Modesto

Youth Commission
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.

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

2. Formulate and recommend programs to the City Council relating to the concerns and needs of youth in the City.

3. Promote engagement from non-profit organizations, neighborhood associations, and 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 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 are established by the City related to youth activities.

7. Work with City staff to promote better youth services and to find solutions to concerns involving youth in the City.

The Youth Commission is comprised of 17 commissioners that are either full-time students enrolled in a City of Modesto high school; or full-time students enrolled in a homeschool program with accredited curriculum and reside within the boundaries of the City of Modesto.

Read full ByLaws, membership requirements and view current members and vacancies.

No
No

No
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Submission ID 814a143e b45d 4e29 9578 6a253b9facd5 Page 2/8 Applicant Information & Background
Gulsayn
Grewal

Central Catholic High School, Modesto, CA
12th
Unemployed
Modesto
California
95356
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Submission ID 814a143e b45d 4e29 9578 6a253b9facd5 Page 4/8 Qualifications
Yes

I am elated to say I am proud of the community I come from and try my hardest to make it the best it can be by participating in various activities such as hosting blood drives at my local temple, playing the harmonium at my temple and donating the proceeds to the Stanislaus county children’s crisis line. I am elated to say I am the founder of my schools stewardship club where we recycle and use the proceeds to buy fabrics to hand make blankets for newborns. As for organizations I am the founder of my own non profit, “AAPI” and on the board of various other non profits.

I believe I have a unique blend of qualities that I would bring to the board. I have experience in leadership through my roles in various community organization such as the Stanislaus county leadership academy and the rotary leadership district awardee, and as a speaker at significant events. I am committed to service and elated to day I received the 2023 silver presidential service award. My experience includes my internship at the DA’s office where I have got hands on experience in the legal system, enhancing my understanding of civic engagement. Lastly, my expertise come from my non- profit I founded called AYR, recognized by the White House at the United we stand summit. This emphasizes my expertise in activism and educational programming.

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Submission ID 814a143e b45d 4e29 9578 6a253b9facd5 Page 6/8 Questionnaire

Place of Employment
I am passionate about empowering young people and amplifying their voices in decision- making processes. By serving on this commision, I hope to contribute to policies and initiatives that adress the needs of the youth, fostering a more inclusive and responsive community.

I see mental health as the primary issue currently impacting the youth in your community. The pressures of academic achievement, social dynamics, and the pervasive influence of social media have significantly increased stress and anxiety amongst young people. Many lack adequate mental health resources and support systems, leading to the feeling of isolation and hopelessness.

I enjoy playing tennis. I find it’s my outlet to get away from the real world and all my stress going on. When I’m on the court I drop everything from the real world and just focus on the game.

Yes
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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Boards, Commissions and Committees Application
08/17/2024 11:01 PM (PDT)
Advisory Boards and Commissions Application
City of Modesto

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

2. Formulate and recommend programs to the City Council relating to the concerns and needs of youth in the City.

4. Work with other youth organizations in the City 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 are established by the City related to youth activities.

7. Work with City staff to promote better youth services and to find solutions to concerns involving youth in the City.

Read full ByLaws, membership requirements and view current members and vacancies.

No
No

No
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Qualifications
Yes

I am a student at Grace M. Davis High School, and in my time here, I have had the opportunity to be involved in several school and community-based activities. I am grateful for these opportunities.

At Davis, I am active in extracurricular clubs and activities. They include Speech and Debate, where I compete in “congress” and I am vice president of the club. I am also a mock trial team member, where I participate as an attorney. I am a member and vice president of Project Her, a school club that promotes and celebrates individual differences, ensuring that members have a fair chance at expression, and fostering a work climate where everyone is treated with dignity and acceptance. I have also participated in student government, where I progressed from freshman class president to ASB executive media director in my sophomore year. Additionally, I am working to relaunch the Davis newspaper, The Corinthian. I am actively involved in my community and have been volunteering for several years. I have participated in events like Love Modesto, assisted at retirement communities, and contributed to school beautification activities in Modesto. One of my core memories was helping build beds for children in need through the Sleep in Heavenly Peace program, which was a tremendous experience.

As a student-athlete, I have competed in cross-country, tennis, and swimming. It is important to add that being active in these sports has also required me to learn the need for school/work/home balance, including the importance of time management. Along with these activities, I have also been fundraising to help offset the costs of these sports, like paying for uniforms, equipment, and officials.

These experiences have taught me that community involvement is about fostering connections and promoting civic duty.

As stated, my experiences in student leadership have prepared me with a mix of qualities that would be beneficial to those whom the commission serves. Through my experience in the various clubs that I am part of, I have developed an easy public speaking style, quick wit, and a tempered approach that is critical for conveying ideas to my peers in a way that they can understand. These experiences have also galvanized my commitment to inclusivity and social awareness, which are vital for representing diverse perspectives.

My experience as a media director has expanded my understanding of the need for efficient and effective communication strategies. In whole, these experiences have broadened my ability to communicate with the student body. My role as freshman class president taught me the importance of representing and advocating for my peers’ interests. Additionally, my work in launching a school newspaper showcases my ability to bring my ideas to life and take initiative.

My involvement in Mock Trial has afforded me a glance into the world of rhetoric, which is valuable for discussions, argumentation, and decision-making processes.

Furthermore, my consistent community service demonstrates a strong sense of civic duty and understanding of local needs that scope out beyond my school community. My experiences as well as my open mind will make me an asset to the Youth Commission.

Submission ID: 09cf3484-afdc-47d5-8e4f-b4da13648c54 Page 4/8 Youth Commission Applications Page 7 of 73
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Questionnaire

Other (Please specify)
I found out about this committee through an instagram ad.

I have a genuine desire to help people, especially my peers. Serving on this committee would allow me to channel this passion into meaningful action. I find great satisfaction in seeing progression in my community. I feel the youth committee will allow me the opportunity to contribute to the development of our local youth. I value a sense of belonging and being a part of an initiative that will make a significant difference in our community. This committee aligns with my aspirations and will allow me to meaningfully contribute to our community while gaining valuable leadership skills and civic involvement.

I find the greatest joy in my free time being creative and with my loved ones. I love painting, baking (especially for my friends and family), crocheting, and creative writing. Being creative is truly second nature to me, and I try my best to foster it even when I am busy. I am very close with my immediate family and we do many things together, I also spend a lot of time with my best friends.

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

Submission ID: 09cf3484-afdc-47d5-8e4f-b4da13648c54 Page 6/8 Youth Commission Applications Page 8 of 73
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Submission ID b6499036 7fa1 4582 b252 9fbdad6b6cf2 Page 1/8 Boards, Commissions and Committees Application
07/21/2024 1:49 PM (PDT)
Advisory Boards and Commissions Application
City of Modesto

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

2. Formulate and recommend programs to the City Council relating to the concerns and needs of youth in the City.

4. Work with other youth organizations in the City 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 are established by the City related to youth activities.

7. Work with City staff to promote better youth services and to find solutions to concerns involving youth in the City.

Read full ByLaws, membership requirements and view current members and vacancies.

No
No

No
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Submission ID b6499036 7fa1 4582 b252 9fbdad6b6cf2 Page 2/8 Applicant Information & Background
Izzy
Altadonna

Thomas Downey High School
10 Na
Modesto
California
95354
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Submission ID b6499036 7fa1 4582 b252 9fbdad6b6cf2 Page 4/8 Qualifications
Yes

I learned from a former participant of the youth commission.

Leadership, clubs, honor roll, csf, volleyball and basketball teams.

Strong engagement and decision making skills from my leadership class. Learned how to be apart of a team through participating on multiple sports teams. I know how to dedicate myself and focus on a job until it’s finished or completed.

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Submission ID b6499036 7fa1 4582 b252 9fbdad6b6cf2 Page 6/8 Questionnaire

Other (Please specify)
Through a friend
I want to be able to have a say in the issues and decisions make in our community.

Community engagement. Having safe places for us to come together and spend our time. Poor education on the long term affects of substance abuse and addiction. Creating more support for teens and children needing more than just a place to live.

Playing sports, swimming, traveling, spending time with friends and family.

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

Youth Commission Applications Page 12 of 73
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Submission ID 376d0654 9c08 4ea8 ab45 655ae6a82c07 Page 1/8 Boards, Commissions and Committees Application
07/30/2024 12:14 PM (PDT)
Advisory Boards and Commissions Application
City of Modesto

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

2. Formulate and recommend programs to the City Council relating to the concerns and needs of youth in the City.

4. Work with other youth organizations in the City 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 are established by the City related to youth activities.

7. Work with City staff to promote better youth services and to find solutions to concerns involving youth in the City.

Read full ByLaws, membership requirements and view current members and vacancies.

No
No

No
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Submission ID 376d0654 9c08 4ea8 ab45 655ae6a82c07 Page 2/8 Applicant Information & Background
Rudra
Patel

Modesto High School
10 High school student
Modesto
California
95356
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Submission ID 376d0654 9c08 4ea8 ab45 655ae6a82c07 Page 4/8 Qualifications
Yes

I learned about the Youth Commission through recommendations from my school peers.

Attending Modesto High School has provided me with numerous resources and materials to be involved with school activities and my community. As a member of the mock trial and speech and debate teams, I have gained insight and knowledge into public policy and law, fostering my desire to learn more about the political process as a fellow on Mayor Sue Zwahlen’s campaign. As Vice President of the Panther Press, my school’s newspaper, and experience on academic decathlon, I have gained a broader understanding of the value of conducting fieldresearch, bringing different societal conflicts to life through writing. Furthermore, as President of the Stanislaus County Outreach Volunteer Organization, I continue to manage and oversee developing projects, such as raising money to create dog beds for at-risk animals at local shelters. These skills have also allowed me to become more involved, bringing student voices to the Modesto City Schools District. The Student Advisory Council (SAC), has allowed me to bring the necessary student input to ensure that all students’ voices are uplifted and heard.

In addition, this past term at the Local Control and Accountability Plan Committee (LCAP) for Modesto City Schools, has allowed me to further advocate for budget allocations in programs, such as career readiness and access to technology.

Recognizing my ability to contribute meaningfully in these activities motivated me to join the American Cancer Society, Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) where I work as a Legislative Ambassador. As the co-chair of the ACS Society of Emerging Leaders in the Council of Emerging Leaders (CELC), I continue to overlook advocacy projects throughout California to increase the quality of life for cancer patients and survivors during and after their treatment.

As an incoming sophomore, I would bring my skills in advocacy and public speaking to the Youth Commission to ensure that I maximize my impact as a young leader. Given my experience in speech and debate and mock trial, I would bring my communication skills and a growth mindset to effectively convey my ideas, and listen to others’ perspectives. Based on my journalism experience, I would be able to further develop efforts in bringing awareness to local issues with the intent of creating passion and unity throughout our community. Much like my time in ACS CAN, working with adults to promote bills and advocacy projects, I will bring my collaborative efforts and problem-solving skills to engage in Modesto’s political process. As a youth commissioner, I will devote my time and effort to the Youth Commission to provide compassion, respect, and integrity to the board to assist in further developing the youth voice.

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Submission ID 376d0654 9c08 4ea8 ab45 655ae6a82c07 Page 6/8 Questionnaire

Other (Please specify)
Through school peers such as Kayvon Banankhah, Sabrina Toor, and Abigail Manzano
I want to serve on the Youth Commission because I believe this platform amplifies the youth voice needed in order to make effective change to our city. I value the Youth Commission because it would allow me to be surrounded by like-minded individuals that are passionate in growing and strengthening Modesto. The Youth Commission’s approach to teamwork and civic organization is unique in its approach to dealing with local government affairs as it allows the youth to implement their diverse perspectives to ensure fairness and equity for all. By serving on this commission, I believe I would be able to work with my peers, and create a lasting impact for our community, fulfilling my passion for facilitating others in the process.

The primary issue I see impacting the youth in our community is a clear social divide. Our youth are extremely divided. Whether it is due to religion, politics, difference in values, or wealth, these matters should not have a strenuous impact on our social relationships. Oftentimes, I have noticed that the circumstances and the diverse population of our society have become points of divide, rather than conversation. For example, close peers of mine have cut ties amongst one another due to differences in religion. Many of my classmates find that variations in political viewpoint to be a separation point. Instead of using these differences to spark conversation to gain perspective and understanding, it has only led to a widening disparity. With the rise in peer social pressure to engage in substance use behaviors, there is an increasing sense for conformity, and disdain for diversity. As of now, the social divide is at an all time high. Whereas, instead of using social differences as points of separation, they should be used to listen and learn from unique individuals. If nothing is done about it, our future generations will not be united, and as a member of the youth commission, it would be my goal to work with my peers to overcome this social divide and address this issue.

Yes
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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Submission ID 68876931 2d28 4716 ba5b ebaf8c887bc6 Page 1/8 Boards, Commissions and Committees Application
08/07/2024 3:08 PM (PDT)
Advisory Boards and Commissions Application
City of Modesto

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

2. Formulate and recommend programs to the City Council relating to the concerns and needs of youth in the City.

4. Work with other youth organizations in the City 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 are established by the City related to youth activities.

7. Work with City staff to promote better youth services and to find solutions to concerns involving youth in the City.

Read full ByLaws, membership requirements and view current members and vacancies.

No
No

No
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Submission ID 68876931 2d28 4716 ba5b ebaf8c887bc6 Page 2/8 Applicant Information & Background
Niya
Kundiyana

Modesto High School
9 Student
Hughson
California
95326
Youth Commission Applications Page 18 of 73
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Submission ID 68876931 2d28 4716 ba5b ebaf8c887bc6 Page 4/8 Qualifications
Yes

My community involvement varies immensely from volunteering to helping to plant trees and set up the Hughson Arboretum, to co-coaching non-profit soccer teams.

At my junior high school, I was elected School President, and worked alongside fellow student council members to better the school. Together, we were able to raise money to fund school activities to grow participation and enthusiasm. We also reduced school-wide violence and behavior significantly. Helping other people who do not have the same opportunities as me always makes me feel content and proud to be able to support people who live under different circumstances. Not everyone is privileged enough to receive the necessary resources. Being able to provide these resources makes me feel like I am positively impacting my community and the not-as-fortunate people around me.

I would bring leadership qualities and the ability to speak for my fellow classmates on how to increase student participation in the community. I would be able to speak about matters impacting youth and provide contact between adolescents and the city council.

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Submission ID 68876931 2d28 4716 ba5b ebaf8c887bc6 Page 6/8 Questionnaire

Community Group
I want a chance to have a voice in my community and make significant impacts that improve my classmates daily lives.

Primary issues in my community are promoting violence, drug abuse, and mental health issues. Students need more support in their daily lives and I want to be the voice that gets to communicate these issues.

I do competitive soccer, reading, working on my farm, and spending time with my family and pet. I am also actively seeking and pursuing opportunities to get admitted into my dream college, Columbia University. I work to achieve my dreams and with the support of my parents I have been able to better my chances for a greater future and endeavor.

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

Youth Commission Applications Page 20 of 73
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Submission ID 6b94b286 d0f9 4732 886d b149f7e8288d Page 1/8 Boards, Commissions and Committees Application
08/09/2024 7:57 PM (PDT)
Advisory Boards and Commissions Application
City of Modesto

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

2. Formulate and recommend programs to the City Council relating to the concerns and needs of youth in the City.

4. Work with other youth organizations in the City 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 are established by the City related to youth activities.

7. Work with City staff to promote better youth services and to find solutions to concerns involving youth in the City.

Read full ByLaws, membership requirements and view current members and vacancies.

No
No

No
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Submission ID 6b94b286 d0f9 4732 886d b149f7e8288d Page 2/8 Applicant Information & Background
Hasan
Modan

Gregori High School
10 Modesto
California
95355
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Submission ID 6b94b286 d0f9 4732 886d b149f7e8288d Page 4/8 Qualifications
Yes

Family/Friends

I started my own nonprofit: Sole Support- aimed at providing athletic equipment, support and opportunities to disadvantaged youth and communities. I have participated in Love Modesto through my local mosque, as well as other initiatives to bring people closer to their community. I've been involved in high school volunteering clubs, such as CSF or Interact, for which I am the secretary. Through these, I have had the opportunity to volunteer at the Peace Officer Memorial Run and the Modesto Marathon. I volunteer at Sutter Gould Medical Foundation every week, guiding patients and helping physicians. I am involved in projects to improve physician patient communications. Finally, I serve as a member of a local nonprofit, the Park Youth Committee, aimed at restoring and rejuvenating the Tuolumne River Park, as well as giving community members equitable opportunities to go to safe and clean parks in the city.

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 and outlet and support system, away from gangs and other dangers. Finally, I can bring my organizational skills to this committee. Through my nonprofit as well as the Park Youth Committee, I have had to cater events, as well as manage funds and bring new ideas to fruition, to engage people in any new project.

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Submission ID 6b94b286 d0f9 4732 886d b149f7e8288d Page 6/8 Questionnaire

Other (Please specify)
Friends/Family
As part of the Park Youth Committee, I found that my perspective as a youth was valued and could be used to help the youth that attend many of Modesto's poorer parks. The Youth Commission gives me a larger reach to continue to voice my concerns about Modesto's children. I want to make a positive change that can be facilitated by this commission for the future of Modesto. As I walk around Modesto, I have always noticed the irritations and discomforts, and I believe as part of the Youth Commission, I can be a part in changing Modesto by utilizing my experience and skills and making sure that issues faced by todays youth are amended.

Yes
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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Submission ID 49501372 c379 4f59 a784 e4ea367faf8b Page 1/8 Boards, Commissions and Committees Application
07/28/2024 10:29 PM (PDT)
Advisory Boards and Commissions Application
City of Modesto

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

2. Formulate and recommend programs to the City Council relating to the concerns and needs of youth in the City.

4. Work with other youth organizations in the City 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 are established by the City related to youth activities.

7. Work with City staff to promote better youth services and to find solutions to concerns involving youth in the City.

Read full ByLaws, membership requirements and view current members and vacancies.

No
No

No
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Submission ID 49501372 c379 4f59 a784 e4ea367faf8b Page 2/8 Applicant Information & Background
Deen
Wafa

Gregori High School
9th
Student
Modesto
California
95356
Youth Commission Applications Page 26 of 73
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Submission ID 49501372 c379 4f59 a784 e4ea367faf8b Page 4/8 Qualifications
Yes

As I'm entering my freshman year of High School, I also got accepted to Gregori High School's leadership program. At the time of applying, I don't know yet, but I will also be trying to become treasurer of the freshman class.

Some qualities I would bring to the table is being a motivator, taking initiative when other people don't want to, and always trying my best. I already have experience in multiple youth leader programs and at a young age that's valuable.

Some expertise I have is I can be open minded and always cooperate with others.

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Submission ID 49501372 c379 4f59 a784 e4ea367faf8b Page 6/8 Questionnaire

Other (Please specify)
Parents
I want to serve on the youth commission to do my best to make our community a better place and hopefully by the end of it, I would have made a big enough impact to change Modesto for the better.

The primary issue I see in our youth community is engagement. The youth aren't participating in activities as much as they used to in the past. Teen and tweens nowadays are glued to their phones scrolling on TikTok and Instagram, instead of enjoying their lives as kids.

In my free time I enjoy playing tennis with family and friends, going on bike rides, hanging out with friends, and occasionally playing video games.

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

Youth Commission Applications Page 28 of 73
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Submission ID 668dc495 ca64 48ea 997b ee4c7bb0be4c Page 1/8 Boards, Commissions and Committees Application
07/21/2024 9:58 PM (PDT)
Advisory Boards and Commissions Application
City of Modesto

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

2. Formulate and recommend programs to the City Council relating to the concerns and needs of youth in the City.

4. Work with other youth organizations in the City 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 are established by the City related to youth activities.

7. Work with City staff to promote better youth services and to find solutions to concerns involving youth in the City.

Read full ByLaws, membership requirements and view current members and vacancies.

No
No

No
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Submission ID 668dc495 ca64 48ea 997b ee4c7bb0be4c Page 2/8 Applicant Information & Background
Neha
Prabhakar

James Enochs High School
10 student
modesto
California
95355
Youth Commission Applications Page 30 of 73
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Submission ID 668dc495 ca64 48ea 997b ee4c7bb0be4c Page 4/8 Qualifications
Yes

I would bring a strong commitment to service, leadership, and academic excellence to the Board, Commission, or Committee. My past leadership and volunteering opportunities equipped me with a deep understanding of community needs and a passion for making a positive impact. As an active member and officer of various school clubs, I have developed strong communication, problemsolving, and teamwork skills. These experiences have honed my ability to approach challenges with a collaborative and solution-oriented mindset, making me well-prepared to contribute effectively to the Board, Commission, or Committee. I will be able to bring new innovative ideas as well as plans to execute them to better impact our youth of Modesto for the better.

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Submission ID 668dc495 ca64 48ea 997b ee4c7bb0be4c Page 6/8 Questionnaire

Community Group
I want to serve on the Youth Commission because I am passionate about creating positive change within our community and believe that youth voices are crucial in shaping the future. My experiences in volunteering, advocacy, and school activities have shown me the importance of community engagement and leadership. By joining the Youth Commission, I hope to contribute my skills and perspectives to address the needs and interests of young people in our city. I am eager to collaborate with others to develop innovative solutions and programs that will make a meaningful impact on our community.

The primary issues currently impacting youth in our community include mental health challenges, access to quality education, and opportunities for meaningful engagement. Many young people face significant stress and anxiety, exacerbated by academic pressures and social challenges. Additionally, disparities in educational resources and support can affect students’ academic outcomes and future opportunities. Finally, there is a need for more avenues for youth to get involved in community service and leadership activities. Addressing these issues requires a comprehensive approach that includes improving mental health support, ensuring equitable educational resources, and creating more opportunities for youth engagement and development.

In my free time, I enjoy playing tennis, which helps me stay active and relieve stress. I also love participating in community service. Additionally, I find relaxation in reading and exploring new topics related to my academic interests. These activities not only enrich my personal life but also align with my commitment to making a positive impact in my community

Yes
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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Boards, Commissions and Committees Application
08/19/2024 3:34 PM (PDT)
Advisory Boards and Commissions Application
City of Modesto

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

2. Formulate and recommend programs to the City Council relating to the concerns and needs of youth in the City.

4. Work with other youth organizations in the City 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 are established by the City related to youth activities.

7. Work with City staff to promote better youth services and to find solutions to concerns involving youth in the City.

Read full ByLaws, membership requirements and view current members and vacancies.

No
No

No
Applicant Information & Background
Rudraansh
Submission ID: d5f24d70-3a98-4676-b58b-ea432f65a310 Page 1/5 Youth Commission Applications Page 33 of 73
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Youth Commission Applications Page 34 of 73
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patients and assisting medical staff with resource management.

This summer, I broadened my horizons by attending a camp on Smart Cities and Sustainability in Amsterdam. There, I gained valuable insights into urban innovation and sustainable practices, further fueling my interest in community development and environmental stewardship.

I would bring a diverse set of qualities, experiences, and expertise to the Youth Committee:

Qualities:
- Strong critical thinking skills: I excel at analyzing problems from multiple perspectives, anticipating potential obstacles, and developing comprehensive, inclusive solutions.
- Public speaking confidence: My experience in public settings has equipped me with the ability to articulate ideas clearly and confidently before audiences.

Expertise:
- Computer Science: I'm proficient in coding languages like Python and HTML. - Emerging Technologies: I possess basic knowledge of AI principles and understand the fundamentals of large-scale data collection and analysis.

This combination of analytical thinking, global perspective, and technical knowledge would enable me to contribute unique and valuable insights to the Youth Committee's initiatives.

Questionnaire

Community Group
I am passionate about serving on the Youth Commission because I believe in investing in our city's future through its young people. My motivation stems from a deep-seated belief that education is a powerful, liberating force that can provide purpose and open countless doors for students.

In our city, I've observed that while educational initiatives exist, many students don't fully grasp their significance or potential impact. I want to change this perception. By leveraging my public speaking skills and critical thinking abilities, I aim to engage with students in a relatable way, presenting education through a fresh perspective that resonates with them.

My ultimate goal is to foster a culture where education is not just valued, but actively sought after by our city's youth. I want to help students recognize that education can empower them to pursue any path they desire.

Serving on the Youth Commission would provide me with a platform to make a tangible, positive impact on our city's young people. I'm committed to dedicating my time and efforts to this cause, and I'm grateful for the opportunity to potentially contribute to shaping a brighter future for our youth and, by extension, our entire community.

The primary issue affecting youth in our community, in my view, is the lack of engaging and comprehensive educational opportunities. This issue manifests in two key areas:

1. Limited Curriculum Diversity:

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Many high schools, including Gregori, offer a narrow range of subjects that don't fully align with students' diverse interests. For instance, as a student passionate about computer science, I've found only two related classes available, with minimal differentiation between them. While some students can pursue their interests outside of school, many lack these resources. This limitation can stifle curiosity and potential career exploration for students who don't see their passions reflected in the curriculum.

2. Teaching Approach and Motivation:

The current teaching methodology often fails to convey the real-world relevance and purpose of subjects, while placing excessive emphasis on grades. This approach can lead to students completing work mechanically, without genuine engagement or understanding. It also contributes to issues like cheating and plagiarism, as students prioritize grades over actual learning.

To address these issues, I believe the Youth Committee should focus on:

1. Advocating for a more diverse and flexible curriculum that caters to a wider range of student interests and future career paths.

2. Promoting teaching methods that emphasize the practical applications and intrinsic value of education, rather than just grades.

3. Encouraging programs that help students explore and express their interests both within and outside the classroom.

By addressing these areas, we can inspire a genuine desire for learning among students, enabling them to better express themselves through education and preparing them more effectively for their futures.

In my free time, I pursue a variety of interests that challenge me intellectually and physically, while also enjoying the companionship of my pets:

1. Coding: My long-standing passion for programming often leads me to develop new software projects during my spare hours. This hobby not only sharpens my technical skills but also allows me to explore creative solutions to real-world problems.

2. Hiking: I find great joy in exploring nature, particularly in the Twain Harte area.

These outdoor excursions provide a perfect balance to my tech-focused activities, offering physical exercise and a chance to appreciate the natural beauty of our region.

3. Chess: Recently, I've discovered a fascination with chess. I dedicate time to learning new strategies and enjoy playing matches, finding that the game challenges my analytical thinking and strategic planning skills.

4. Video Games: I'm also passionate about playing video games. This hobby not only provides entertainment but also helps me develop problem-solving skills, enhances my reflexes, and often offers a platform for social interaction with friends online.

5. Time with My Goldendoodles: A significant part of my free time is devoted to my two cute goldendoodles. Whether it's going for walks, playing in the yard, or simply relaxing together, the time spent with my dogs brings me joy and helps me unwind from my other activities.

These diverse interests reflect my enthusiasm for continuous learning, personal growth, and maintaining a balanced lifestyle. From technological pursuits to outdoor activities, strategic games, digital entertainment, and the companionship of my pets, my varied hobbies demonstrate my ability to engage with both intellectual challenges and nurturing relationships.

Yes
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Submission ID 2ff51ddf 5098 4fd4 b19d de0c7c1018bb Page 1/9 Boards, Commissions and Committees Application
07/21/2024 9:35 PM (PDT)
Advisory Boards and Commissions Application
City of Modesto

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

2. Formulate and recommend programs to the City Council relating to the concerns and needs of youth in the City.

4. Work with other youth organizations in the City 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 are established by the City related to youth activities.

7. Work with City staff to promote better youth services and to find solutions to concerns involving youth in the City.

Read full ByLaws, membership requirements and view current members and vacancies.

No
No

Yes
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Submission ID 2ff51ddf 5098 4fd4 b19d de0c7c1018bb Page 2/9

Tuolumne River Regional Park Citizens Advisory Committee 04/12/2024
04/12/2025
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Submission ID 2ff51ddf 5098 4fd4 b19d de0c7c1018bb Page 3/9 Applicant Information & Background
Valentina
Zeff

Modesto High School
10 Student
Modesto
California
95356
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Submission ID 2ff51ddf 5098 4fd4 b19d de0c7c1018bb Page 5/9 Qualifications
Yes

I am extremely involved in my local community. Since January of 2024, I have accumulated over 100 hours of volunteer time at the newly opened Modesto Children's Museum. My job there is to assist the staff and entertain the children with activities while the museum is operating or during the museum’s science education summer camp for children. I am currenty serving as Vice President and President of the Fundraising Committee for Modesto High School’s Key Club International which promotes community service and friendship. As VP and President of the Fundraising Committee, I have led multiple meetings over the school year and organized three successful fundraisers to support children suffering in Gaza. This past April, I was granted the opportunity to be a part of the Parks Youth Committee (PYC). At PYC, I have been a contributing member of speeches and informational videos that were given to the Modesto City Council that influenced future bills and local laws. Besides participating on my school’s tennis and track teams, I have been both a student volunteer and an active participant in Teens Run Modesto (completing the 13.1 race distance). I am also currently involved in a local tennis summer league in which we play against various teams in Modesto. At Modesto High School, I am involved with the International Baccalareate Program (IB) and Student Senate. IB is an accelerated learning program for students who want to grow their minds academically and Student Senate is a school leadership council composed of a diverse, select team of students wanting to better the school.

I have many qualifications that I feel like would make me an ideal candidate for serving on the Modesto Youth Commission Board. I am a leader, proficient public speaker, and believe highly in the power of teamwork and civic duty. I was very active this past school year on the speech and debate team at my highschool.

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Submission ID 2ff51ddf 5098 4fd4 b19d de0c7c1018bb Page 7/9 Questionnaire

Community Group
I want to serve on the Youth Commission because I would like to gain valuable information on research and community involvement. This commission would allow me to meet influential community mentors that could help me grow and evolve as a leader. My career goal is to be in science and research and I know this commission would support my future aspirations.

The primary issues I see impacting the youth in our community is an absence of direction and motivation to live a fulfilling life. I’ve witnessed many of my peers fall into bad habits that lead to self-destructive behaviors. Being a student at Modesto High School, I have seen a lot of drug abuse and violence around the area. I believe the cause of this to be a lack of goals or direction. Their lack of motivation has the ability to harm the people around them, which ultimately erodes the community.

In my free time I enjoy being active, spending time with friends, and baking for my family. Participating in exercise, such as tennis and running allows me to clear my head and focus on what is important to me. Being with friends always puts a smile on my face because I am a social person that loves to get to know people better.

Yes
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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Boards, Commissions and Committees Application
08/13/2024 6:31 PM (PDT)
Advisory Boards and Commissions Application
City of Modesto

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

2. Formulate and recommend programs to the City Council relating to the concerns and needs of youth in the City.

4. Work with other youth organizations in the City 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 are established by the City related to youth activities.

7. Work with City staff to promote better youth services and to find solutions to concerns involving youth in the City.

Read full ByLaws, membership requirements and view current members and vacancies.

No
No

No
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Applicant Information & Background
Christopher-Krew
Masterson

Modesto High School
11 Modesto
California
95355
Submission ID: d651746a-5f87-4985-a9d1-34aadfc3df79 Page 2/8 Youth Commission Applications Page 44 of 73
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Qualifications
Yes

I attend Modesto High School as a full IB program student maintaining straight A's. There I play football, basketball, and baseball. I've been awarded the Coaches Choice and Defensive Player of the Year Award in Basketball and Football. I attended Rose Avenue for Elementary, La Loma for Junior High, and was slated to attend Downey High, but when I was selected for IB, I accepted the transfer. I work at Fun Sport Bikes as a mechanic and enjoy Dry Creek for bike rides. I was born and raised in Modesto and so were my mom and dad.

What qualifies me for the youth committee is I am familiar with multiple different youth demographics in Modesto. I've grown up in North Modesto and East Modesto, but now that I've been attending Modesto High School, going on my 3rd year, many of my peers are from West Modesto. With this background and diverse peer groups I am well informed of the needs and wants of the youth in North, East, and West Modesto. I have a younger sister who is 11 and I want to make a positive impact in the community for her as she gets older. I am personable, patient, a critical thinker and am good at ensuring I understand both sides of a topic before making my own opinion on it.

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Questionnaire

Community Group
I want to serve the Youth Commission because I want to be an advocate for my peers and a leader among them. I'd like to learn the local government process and how I can affect change within my community for the greater good. On top of that, by learning how to impact change within my community I can then forward those skills into my adult life.

Primary issues I see impacting youth and my peers within the community are feeling empowered, drug abuse, lack of transportation or safe walking paths especially in Western Modesto. As well as, gang violence overlooked inside of our schools, which are seeded as a safe space for us. Community outreach to youth to develop involvement throughout their school years that would extend into their adulthood.

Yes
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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Boards, Commissions and Committees Application
08/18/2024 11:58 PM (PDT)
Advisory Boards and Commissions Application
City of Modesto
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.

Which Board, Committee or
Commission are you expressing
interest in?
Youth Commission
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.

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

2. Formulate and recommend programs to the City Council relating to the concerns and needs of youth in the City.

4. Work with other youth organizations in the City 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 are established by the City related to youth activities.

7. Work with City staff to promote better youth services and to find solutions to concerns involving youth in the City.

Read full ByLaws, membership requirements and view current members and vacancies.

Are you currently serving on this
board?
No
Have you ever served on this
board?
No
Have you previously served or are
you currently serving on a Board,
Committee or Commission for the
City Modesto?
No
Applicant Information & Background
First Name Ibrahim
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Last Name Khan
Date of Birth
School Enochs High School
Grade 11
Phone Number
Email Address
Occupation Student
Your Address
City Modesto
State California
Zip 95356
Qualifications
Are you enrolled full-time in high
school?
Yes
Explain how you learned about
the board or commission you are
applying for
In 2023 a good friend of mine invited me to one of the Stanislaus County Youth Empowerment Alliance meetings, at the time I was not sure what the benefit or purpose of such a meeting could be. However, when I arrived there it was to my surprise when the first speaker came up and spoke of her upbringing filled with trials and tribulations, I could not imagine the loneliness she would have felt nor the distress within the sanctity of her own home. Yet she stood there smiling, speaking confidently alongside other speakers. Among these speakers were representatives from the Modesto Youth Commission who following this speech Submission ID: b15b83b6-5834-4946-bb9b-38fa341a826d Page 2/5 Youth Commission Applications Page 48 of 73
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listed numerous resources individuals could utilize so they wouldn’t have to suffer in silence like her. This was my introduction to the Modesto Youth Commission.

Describe your involvement in
community and/or school
activities and organizations.

1. Speech and Debate Captain (2 years)
For my freshman and sophomore years, I won in local tournaments and competed in both the State and National
tournaments while being the debate captain.

2. Science Olympiad Captain (6 years)
Ever since fifth grade, I have been an avid participant in STEM activities targeting academic enrichment in our city

3. Varsity Football (2 years)
For the first time, I joined a world so foreign to myself where I learned discipline, perseverance, and mental fortitude in a way unlike any other

4. Volunteering at my local masjid (8+ years)
This has been an integral portion of my upbringing, including organizing community events, speaking for the youth, and
charity drives

5. Red Cross Club Co-Founder
I began this club with a fellow Modesto Youth Commission member, to increase public health and volunteering initiatives in
my school and many others. This year we will be hosting our first blood drive.

What qualities, experience, and
expertise would you bring to the
Board, Commission or
Committee?
I believe my strongest characteristic above all others is my perseverance and the bravery it gave me. And by bravery, I don’t mean going on a scary rollercoaster, I mean persevering to the point I would have never imagined. This perseverance carries on into numerous fields of endeavors be it physical, academic, or even both. Academically, I persevere to the best of my ability to seek opportunities for myself. I would work hours and hours on end on my speeches, studying to aim for the top in my classes, writing my science olympiad notes, etc. For example, one recent struggle of mine was for my teacher to allow me into her AP Calculus class as a junior, a relatively unorthodox choice. Months, and months of both emailing, researching, and self-studying finally led me to this anticipated moment when school began. Physically, I have struggled with weight loss for my entire life, a struggle a large portion of Modesto’s youth also deals with. After years of trial and error, with unhealthy diets, overexertion, healthy diets, and safe exertion I have gained a sense of confidence. Confidence I believe is lacking in many. I believe that with my experience with this struggle, I can relate to Modesto’s youth above others in a situation that I know is detrimental to the mental health of both children and teens alike. Finally, the final facet of my perseverance is how I applied it last year on the football field. This was my first year in a team sport and with no experience beyond “nerdy” academics where I was able to receive awards for my season performance. The path to that was a much longer story. I endured physical exertion to the point I wanted to collapse, taunting that made me want to stay home, and a sense of detachment from others that made me feel that I should have never joined, Yet, I endured and enjoyed the fruit of my labors further building my confidence. Be it through my experience in sports, childhood bullying, or academic dedication the skillset I gained from all these experiences led me to believe that I could share invaluable insight on this Youth Commission.

Questionnaire
How did you learn about the
board for which you are applying?
Other (Please specify)
Other (Please Specify) A Friend as mentioned previously Why do you want to serve on the
Youth Commission?
I want to serve on this Youth Commission truly to make a change I know I am capable of influencing. My first introduction described earlier, was one of both admiration and inspiration. I admired those of this very committee who dedicated Submission ID: b15b83b6-5834-4946-bb9b-38fa341a826d Page 3/5 Youth Commission Applications Page 49 of 73
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their time to benefiting our community. Most importantly, however, I am inspired to utilize the qualities I know I possess to make a change just like them. Joining this community expands my horizons and opportunities where for example if I want to start a Red Cross initiative I am not just confined to my high school but I am free to benefit the community as a whole.

What do you see as the primary
issues currently impacting youth
in our community?
What if I told you that COVID-19 was one of many pandemics in the last decade? The pandemic of loneliness, depression, and other mental health issues have all exponentially risen, becoming endemic at times. I truly believe mental health is the greatest issue affecting youth today. Beyond its rather cliche use, I believe that mental health encapsulates more than our mental sanctity. It encapsulates our confidence and our perseverance, both of which have been tested as I fall down repeatedly on weekdays till 7 PM playing football on my school's varsity team.

However, I fear that a lot of youth do not have the resources to stand back up after the obstacles they face. That’s an issue because the rate of trials and tribulations seems to be increasing while the amount of resources available stagnates. As a Youth Commissioner, my goal would be to expand awareness of resources, to stand back up with everyone else. Falling alone is hard; as a Youth Commissioner, I would fall with everyone else and stand up with everyone else! What do you enjoy doing with
your free time?
In my free time, I love engaging in activities that enrich myself and build bridges and relationships with those around me. For my enrichment, I enjoy learning the rabab, a form of the guitar unique to my heritage that allows me to still have a connection to my beautiful homeland despite a 10,000-mile distance. Additionally, I spend my time at home enjoying the process of both mandatory studying for school tests and the SAT or supplementary studying or speechwriting to boost my academic performance. However, despite this the majority of my free time activities are communal. I spend 4 hours a day immediately after school traversing through high school football. As mentioned before I enjoy the discipline it builds, but most importantly I enjoy the relationships made. I made friends with individuals I would have never met otherwise while maintaining connections from academic extracurriculars. Going back to my cultural connection, by far the greatest pastime of mine is learning my own language. There is a feeling like no other, being unable to speak with your own family that loves you but you can't even verbally comprehend it. To tackle this problem with only two of my grandparents remaining, I dedicated the past few years of my life to absorbing every single form of education surrounding my mother tongue Pashto. Rereading a 300-page book 5 times, making use of US military linguistic programs, and speaking despite massive struggle. This decreasing amount of time with a busier schedule only motivates me further to use my free time to benefit myself and those around me.

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
Applicant 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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Submission ID 0261458a 284f 4da7 9811 12da54f0ceae Page 1/8 Boards, Commissions and Committees Application
07/21/2024 10:31 AM (PDT)
Advisory Boards and Commissions Application
City of Modesto

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

2. Formulate and recommend programs to the City Council relating to the concerns and needs of youth in the City.

4. Work with other youth organizations in the City 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 are established by the City related to youth activities.

7. Work with City staff to promote better youth services and to find solutions to concerns involving youth in the City.

Read full ByLaws, membership requirements and view current members and vacancies.

No
No

No
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Submission ID 0261458a 284f 4da7 9811 12da54f0ceae Page 2/8 Applicant Information & Background
Gurnoor
Jhatu

Modesto High School
11 Student
Modesto
California
95355
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Submission ID 0261458a 284f 4da7 9811 12da54f0ceae Page 4/8 Qualifications
Yes

I’m involved in the CASL Ambassador program which is a leadership program outside of school. I’m also a part of a student ambassador program at school where I help incoming freshmen with the day to day life in school. I’m also an AVID and International Baccalaureate student as well. Outside of school I’m in a volunteering program through Doctors Medical Center now. I’ve also taken quite a few college classes at MJC.

I’m a very good communicator and can get people to voice their opinions openly. I also am very initiative in teamwork projects and enjoy working with people as well.

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Submission ID 0261458a 284f 4da7 9811 12da54f0ceae Page 6/8 Questionnaire

Other (Please specify)
Instagram
I want to serve on the youth commission so I can bring in my own perspective on the issues that are currently happening in our youth and give some solutions as well for these issues

The primary issues in today’s youth is definitely the rise of drug use, racism, addiction to technology, and the mental issues such as depression and anxiety which I’ve seen in my peers.

In my free time I enjoy listening to music, painting, reading classics, taking random online courses, and baking.

Yes
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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Submission ID 6d25bc9b 6d89 49c0 8fa4 d741e4ccc857 Page 1/8 Boards, Commissions and Committees Application
07/16/2024 6:32 PM (PDT)
Advisory Boards and Commissions Application
City of Modesto

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

2. Formulate and recommend programs to the City Council relating to the concerns and needs of youth in the City.

4. Work with other youth organizations in the City 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 are established by the City related to youth activities.

7. Work with City staff to promote better youth services and to find solutions to concerns involving youth in the City.

Read full ByLaws, membership requirements and view current members and vacancies.

No
No

No
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Submission ID 6d25bc9b 6d89 49c0 8fa4 d741e4ccc857 Page 2/8 Applicant Information & Background
Josephine
Hughes

Modesto High School
11th
j
Student
Modesto
California
95350
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Submission ID 6d25bc9b 6d89 49c0 8fa4 d741e4ccc857 Page 4/8 Qualifications
Yes

I have taken part in numerous community and school activities and organizations.

I have 30+ hours volunteering at the Modesto Childrens Museum, assisting in running activities and keeping things in order. I also am an active part of the Modesto High varsity waterpolo and swim team. Also at school, I am a member of the Dance Production team and Science Olympiad team. I have experience an ASB leadership student at Modesto High as well. Outside of school I also participate in the Modesto Junior College community orchestra playing violin.

I bring a sense of opened-mindedness and understanding along with experience working with people of all ages. I am good at getting my point across and a motivated worker.

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Submission ID 6d25bc9b 6d89 49c0 8fa4 d741e4ccc857 Page 6/8 Questionnaire

Other (Please specify)
My sister has previously served on the commission.

I want to serve on the Youth Commission because I am passionate about making sure that our community is equitable to all people, including the youth. It is important to have fresh input and perspectives from the youth of Modesto in order to attain a community that they want to return to.

I enjoy playing waterpolo, playing violin, reading, writing, cooking, and hanging out with family and friends in my free time.

Yes
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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Boards, Commissions and Committees Application
08/18/2024 4:58 PM (PDT)
Advisory Boards and Commissions Application
City of Modesto

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

2. Formulate and recommend programs to the City Council relating to the concerns and needs of youth in the City.

4. Work with other youth organizations in the City 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 are established by the City related to youth activities.

7. Work with City staff to promote better youth services and to find solutions to concerns involving youth in the City.

Read full ByLaws, membership requirements and view current members and vacancies.

No
No

No
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Applicant Information & Background
Zoya
Gagan

Joseph Gregori Highschool
11th
Student
Modesto
California
95356
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Qualifications
Yes

I learned about the Youth Commision through my friends and had asked for a link to apply for it.

In addition, I am also involved in multiple different school clubs like HOSA, Red Cross, Speech and Debate, Mock Trial, Project Change, Asian American Association, and Future Physicians. Through these school clubs, I have developed strong leadership, communication, and teamwork skills, while also contributing to the betterment of my school and local community.

My volunteer work at a Sutter Health has helped me gain many skills including essential organizational and interpersonal skills as well as creating a sense of leadership amongst my teammates. In addition, my participation in different in school extracurricular activities helped my communication, strategic planning, and teamwork skills. These experiences make me well prepared to contribute to the Youth Committee’s goals for Modesto, helping to develop and implement initiatives that can positively impact our town.

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Questionnaire

Other (Please specify)
Friends
I want to start contributing to the Youth Commission for the well being and development of our community's youth. My experiences and challenges today have shown me the importance of advocacy and proactive engagement in addressing the needs and challenges faced by today's generation. By serving on the Commission, I hope to use my skills and experiences to create meaningful changes and ensure that the voices of all youth are heard and valued.

Some of the primary issues facing our community's youth include mental health challenges, educational disparities, and a lack of safe, inclusive spaces for personal and social development. Mental health, in particular, has become a critical area of concern, with many young people needing more support and resources.

In my free time, I enjoy playing tennis, reading a variety of books, and baking. I also love spending time with friends and participating in various other extracurricular activities.

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

Submission ID: 9c17d326-c933-4e38-bfba-9f461bc2a420 Page 6/8 Youth Commission Applications Page 62 of 73
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Submission ID e60dd9b0 06ba 4033 9c8c ecdbfee6ef26 Page 1/8 Boards, Commissions and Committees Application
07/04/2024 8:07 AM (PDT)
Advisory Boards and Commissions Application
City of Modesto

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

2. Formulate and recommend programs to the City Council relating to the concerns and needs of youth in the City.

4. Work with other youth organizations in the City 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 are established by the City related to youth activities.

7. Work with City staff to promote better youth services and to find solutions to concerns involving youth in the City.

Read full ByLaws, membership requirements and view current members and vacancies.

No
No

No
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Submission ID e60dd9b0 06ba 4033 9c8c ecdbfee6ef26 Page 4/8 Qualifications
Yes

Martin Montez and saida alverez. Current members

Im apart of my schools dance production and social media team, JNN. I also dance at 5678 dance studio and run cross country and track on Gregori’s varsity team. I volunteer often, such as Love Modesto, catering at galas for local school fundraisers. I was also apart of key club at my previous school in Tennessee for my freshman and sophomore year where we teamed up with Kawanis and volunteered at local restaurants to raise money for service projects.

Ive got a sufficient amount of volenteering experience that I can bring to the committee while also qualities, such as: social media abilities, editing and filming, athletic, extrovert, and friendly.

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Submission ID e60dd9b0 06ba 4033 9c8c ecdbfee6ef26 Page 6/8 Questionnaire

Other (Please specify)
Martín Montez. Saida Alvarez
I enjoy volunteering and youth commission will give me the ability to schedule volenteering events. I also want to serve because I get to meet peers who are just as passionate about volenteering as I am while also having the opportunity to meet local council men and get a deeper understanding of local government

Homelessness. It’s not even funny how bad it is. I’m sitting here at the Starbucks on J street, down town Modesto after running a quick 3 miles and there’s a homeless man screaming at passing cars begging for money. There’s homelessness on every street camping out in every city. It seems as though no matter how much money and federal funding goes into making cities a beautiful place to shop, eat, and celebrate there will always be a village of homeless people to ruin your experience. And it’s even worse for youth, like I mentioned before, down town Modesto hosts dozens of high school proms. Those are iconic once in a life time core moments and if I can do anything to prevent the homeless from ruining it and make it more safe for everyone who goes then why shouldn’t I.

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

Youth Commission Applications Page 66 of 73
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Submission ID fb3c6b0a 5033 406b b96f 8b61310faf98 Page 1/8 Boards, Commissions and Committees Application
07/14/2024 6:05 PM (PDT)
Advisory Boards and Commissions Application
City of Modesto

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

2. Formulate and recommend programs to the City Council relating to the concerns and needs of youth in the City.

4. Work with other youth organizations in the City 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 are established by the City related to youth activities.

7. Work with City staff to promote better youth services and to find solutions to concerns involving youth in the City.

Read full ByLaws, membership requirements and view current members and vacancies.

No
No

No
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Submission ID fb3c6b0a 5033 406b b96f 8b61310faf98 Page 2/8 Applicant Information & Background
Henry
Kinzie

Modesto High School
12 Modesto
California
95358
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Submission ID fb3c6b0a 5033 406b b96f 8b61310faf98 Page 4/8 Qualifications
Yes

I am heavily involved in school extracurriculars including sports such as golf and football, as well as many clubs and opportunities. Some clubs include our school’s Random Acts of Kindness club which aims to spread kindness and positivity throughout the campus and our community, Math Olympiad, Biology Club, Speech and Debate, Recycling Club, and our Environmental Club. I am also heavily involved in our Student Senate. I believe the Student Senate is an important way to provide student and youth perspective to our school’s staff and activities.

I would bring a fresh perspective and an open mind to the Commission. I have always had a curiosity to learn more about our community and how to help as well as to hear about other’s perspectives and situations. Along with that I see youth participation in our community as incredibly important, as shown by my activity in our school’s Student Senate. I know that our community needs our input and involvement to constantly improve. Other qualities I have include patience and understanding, as well as a readiness to help out whenever necessary.

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Submission ID fb3c6b0a 5033 406b b96f 8b61310faf98 Page 6/8 Questionnaire

Other (Please specify)
A friend who is on the Commission.

I want to be an active participant in my community and I would love to provide my help and input wherever it is needed. I also know how important it is to provide representation to a large demographic of our community who can tend to feel unheard. I believe providing the city with perspective from our youth is incredibly beneficial.

I believe the primary issues impacting our youth is a general apathy for our community. I believe this has been brought on by social media and its bombardment on young people with too much of a world view and too little of a communal view. While I believe it is important to understand and know issues impacting the world around us, I believe our youth is overstimulated by social media and tends to forget how important our community is. No matter how small the city around us feels, our city holds great importance and impact on our lives and I believe the youth need to be better involved in our community.

I enjoy being active in all sorts of ways. I enjoy playing sports, working out, doing yard work which I know is a little odd but putting in work and seeing positive results is fulfilling for me, and hanging out with friends. I also find enjoyment from reading classic literature and even comic books from time to time.

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

Youth Commission Applications Page 70 of 73
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Boards, Commissions and Committees Application
08/19/2024 6:04 PM (PDT)
Advisory Boards and Commissions Application
City of Modesto

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

2. Formulate and recommend programs to the City Council relating to the concerns and needs of youth in the City.

4. Work with other youth organizations in the City 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 are established by the City related to youth activities.

7. Work with City staff to promote better youth services and to find solutions to concerns involving youth in the City.

Read full ByLaws, membership requirements and view current members and vacancies.

No
No

No
Applicant Information & Background
Myra
Submission ID: f7531cef-0001-42d9-ab05-a12814b73de7 Page 1/4 Youth Commission Applications Page 71 of 73
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CITY OF MODESTO

COMMITTEE AGENDA REPORT
DATE OF MEETING:

September 11, 2024
Date: August 2, 2024
TO: Appointments Committee
Jeremiah Williams, Chair
Eric Alvarez, Vice Chair
Rosa Escutia-Braaton, Member
THROUGH: Joseph P. Lopez, City Manager
FROM: Bill Sandhu, Director of Public Works
SUBJECT: Airport Advisory Committee, Appointment of Vacant Position CONTACT: Marisol Navarro, Airport Manager [email protected] 209-577-5319 DESCRIPTION:

Consider the appointment of one vacancy to the Modesto City-County Airport Advisory Committee for a four-year term with an expiration date of June 30, 2028, and forwarding to Council for approval. (Funding Source: Not Applicable)
STRATEGIC PLAN ELEMENT:

The recommended action supports the City’s Governance and Service Delivery Strategic Plan Initiative: 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 City-County Airport (Airport) operates for the benefit of all businesses, industries, visitors and residents in the City of Modesto, Stanislaus County, and the surrounding areas. To ensure that the Airport is maintained and developed in such a manner that it will continue to be a high-quality aviation facility for its users and a good neighbor in the community, the Airport Advisory Committee (AAC) was formed. Interested citizens are appointed as members to the AAC by both the Modesto City Council and the Stanislaus County Board of Supervisors to advise on numerous matters, including policy and planning pertaining to the operation and management of the Airport.

DISCUSSION:

The AAC is somewhat of a unique committee that is made up of very specific airport related voting positions. Past practice has shown over the years these positions were difficult to fill and is why there were many reappointments in the past. With the understanding of the importance of keeping the committee the City has taken a different approach to filling this vacancy. Since the #5..
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Appointments Committee, September 11, 2024
Airport Advisory Committee, Appointment of Vacant Position

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Appointments CommitteeSeptember 11, 2024

Appointments Committee
September 11, 2024