Submit Date: Aug 05, 2023
First Name
Last Name
Email Address
Street Address
Suite or Apt
City
State
Postal Code
Primary Phone
Alternate Phone
CITY OF SAN JOSE, CALIFORNIA
Boards and Commissions Application
Profile
Please note, applications are continuously accepted to the City of San Jose Boards and Commissions. The Board or Commission you select may or may not indicate there is a vacancy.
Your application will remain on file for one year from the date of submission. During the year, your application may be considered for unanticipated vacancies.
Additionally, applicants to the following commissions will be required to fill out a Form 700
(California State required Statement of Economic Interest) within 30 days of appointment.
Airport Commission
Appeals Hearing Board
Arena Authority
Arts Commission
Civil Service Commission
Deferred Compensation Advisory Committee (DCAC)
Downtown Parking Board
Board of Fair Campaign and Political Practices (formerly Ethics Commission) Federated and Police & Fire Retirement Boards
Historic Landmarks Commission
Housing & Community Development Commission
Work2future (SVWIB) Board
Planning Commission*
Are you a resident of San Jose?
Yes
No
What district do you live in? To verify, please click here:
https://rovservices.sccgov.org/Home/IndexPost?
selected=dt&electionId=133&distance=5&navtab=vc&asm=simple *
District 4
Length of Residency
6 or more years
Jasvinder
Sohal
San Jose
CA
95133
Jasvinder Sohal
Employer Job Title
Which Boards would you like to apply for?
Airport Commission: Submitted
Current Employer Address
Current Employer of Spouse
Retired
Address of Current Employer of Spouse
Spouse's Job Title
N/A
If you or your spouse is retired and receiving a pension, please state source of pension.
CalPERS: California Public Employees' Retirement System Santa Clara County Office of
Education
Manager, Purchasing / Internal
Business Services
Jasvinder Sohal
Interests & Experiences
High School, College, Professional, Vocational, or Other Schools Attended. Please include Major or Field of Study, Dates Attended, Degree and Date of Degree. - Independence High, San Jose, graduated in1981 - Bachelor’s degree in business management from the University of Phoenix, 1998 - School Business Management/Chief Business Official (CBO) Certification:
One-year certification program at the University of Southern California (USC), completed June 2013 - De Anza College: Asian Pacific American, Leadership Institute (APALI) 2018 Civic Leadership Program graduate - Reserve Police Academy graduate, 1991 - 2015 California Association of School Business Officials (CASBO) Northern Section Professional Council Chair for Public Procurement - Problem-Solving and Process Improvement – Sun Microsystems (SunU), 2003 - Project Management – Sun Microsystems (SunU), 2003
List any position or office held in any governmental agency, civic, or charitable organization including the dates.
- Currently work for Santa Clara County Office of Education as Manager, Purchasing / Internal Business Services - Santa Clara County Juvenile Justice Commission, 2020. - Member, of Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Educators Network at Santa Clara County Office of Education since 2015. - Member, of the California Association of School Business Officials (CASBO) since 2010. - Member, of Fiscal Crisis & Management Assistance Team (FCMAT) and School Services of California since 2010. - President, Bay Area Cultural & Sports Association (a non-profit for Youth Cultural & Sports Activities) from 2003 to 2020. - Currently Director, Sikh Sports Association of USA (a non-profit that nurtures, and promotes sports amongst different communities, Youth, and Adult events) - Volunteer, Sports Director at San Jose Gurdwara: Help organize and manage youth sports tournaments for the community since 1984.
Languages Spoken
English, Hindi and Punjabi
Special Awards or Recognitions Received
Recognition for being on the planning committee for the Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Educators Network at the Santa Clara County Office of Education. Recognition for being a mentor to others in the Santa Clara County Office of Education Champion For Leadership (CFL) Program.
Jasvinder Sohal
Please state why you want to become a member of this Board or Commission including specific objectives which you would work toward as a member.
I relocated from India in 1977 and have established my residence in San Jose ever since. My educational pursuits were undertaken within the local academic institutions, and my professional endeavors have predominantly been concentrated within the South Bay region. As I approach the threshold of retirement, I am motivated to leverage my extensive education and experience for the betterment of our city. With a substantial background spanning both the technological and public sectors, I am poised to introduce a distinctive and innovative perspective to the Airport Commission. The amalgamation of these diverse experiences has honed my ability for unconventional and creative problem-solving. I am deeply appreciative of the privilege to call San Jose my home and am resolute in my desire to actively engage in shaping determinations that bear significance upon our immediate community. In my frequent travels, I am a regular patron of the San Jose Mineta International Airport. It is my aspiration to play an instrumental role in steering the growth, advancement, and operational efficacy of this vital transportation hub, ensuring that its trajectory harmonizes with the aspirations and welfare of our residents. By affiliating myself with the commission, I foresee an indelible source of personal gratification derived from my contribution to the realm of civic duty.
Please state any other information which you feel would be useful in reviewing your application
In addition to the qualifications and skills highlighted earlier, I am motivated by a profound sense of civic duty and a genuine commitment to contributing meaningfully to the enhancement of our city's vital infrastructure and services. My desire to join the Airport Commission is rooted in a deep-seated appreciation for the pivotal role that the Mineta San Jose International Airport plays in fostering economic growth, connectivity, and the overall well-being of our community. Having resided in San Jose for decades, I have witnessed firsthand the city's evolution and growth. This longstanding association has instilled within me a keen understanding of the aspirations, needs, and concerns of our local residents. I am resolute in my belief that the Airport Commission offers an unparalleled platform through which I can leverage my expertise, experience, and acumen to contribute to informed decision-making that will shape the airport's trajectory in a manner that resonates positively with our community. Furthermore, my immersion in diverse sectors, ranging from technology to public service, has endowed me with a unique vantage point that can facilitate the infusion of innovative thinking and pragmatic solutions into the commission's deliberations. My capacity to seamlessly bridge the realms of intricate data analysis, legislative compliance, and strategic planning equips me to make substantive contributions to the commission's pursuits. As I stand at the cusp of retirement, I am steadfast in my commitment to channeling my energy, passion, and intellect into meaningful avenues of service. Joining the Airport Commission aligns perfectly with this aspiration, affording me the privilege to apply my cumulative wisdom to an endeavor that not only shapes the city's aviation landscape but also exemplifies my unwavering dedication to the betterment of San Jose and its thriving community.
Do you own property in the City of San José?
Yes
No
If yes, please list the addresses here.
Do you rent property in the City of San José?
Yes
No
Jasvinder Sohal
If yes, is it a month-to-month lease?
Yes
No
Question applies to multiple boards
Are you currently experiencing homelessness or have you experienced it in the past?
Yes
No
State and local law require that you abstain from participation in decisions that may affect your financial interests, including sources of income, interest in real property, personal finances or investments.
In addition, if appointed, you may be required to fill out a disclosure statement which identifies certain financial interest beginning with the immediate twelve-month period prior to your appointment.
Please review the scope of your
board/commission in Municipal Code Chapter 2.08.
Based on your best judgment, does this
Board or Commission make decisions that may affect sources of income, interests in real property, personal finances or investments of you or your spouse?
Yes
No
If yes, please explain.
Please identify any organizations, associations, corporations, or entities by which you are employed or associated that might be affected by decisions of this Board or Commission, and the positions you hold in these entities.
Question applies to multiple boards
If appointed, you will be required to fill out a disclosure statement, which identifies certain of your financial interests beginning with the immediate twelve-month period prior to your appointment and annually on or before April 1 of each year thereafter. Please confirm that you have read Fair Political Practices Commission (FPPC) Form 700 Reference Pamphlet and agree to file required FPPC Form 700 Statements of Economic Interest, as required by current City Council Conflict of Interest resolution.
Yes
No
Question applies to multiple boards
Have you ever been required to file a Statement of Economic Interest (Form 700) and failed to do so?
Yes
No
Question applies to multiple boards
If yes, please explain in complete detail.
Question applies to multiple boards
Please confirm that you have reviewed and agree to comply with the San Jose Municipal Code Chapter 12.08 (Prohibition of Gifts), City of San Jose Ethics Policy (City Policy Manual
1.2.1), and City of San Jose Gift Policy (City Policy Manual 1.2.2).
Yes
No
Jasvinder Sohal
Reference 1 Name
Bob Dhillon
Reference 1 Address
Reference 1 Email address
Reference 1 Phone
Reference 2 Name
Surjit Bains
Reference 2 Address
Reference 2 Email address
Reference 2 Phone
Supplemental Questions
If applicable, have you ever attended or watched a meeting of the Commission(s) to which you are applying?
Yes No
Would you be available to attend meetings at the scheduled time? Yes No
Jasvinder Sohal
Please describe your experience in serving on a Commission or Board.
Through my education in School Business Management/Chief Business Official (CBO) Certification at USC, I have knowledge of the Brown Act and Brown Act Agenda. I currently work at the Santa Clara County Office of Education (SCCOE) and have done presentations to SCCOE's Board. For a short term, I was a member of the Santa Clara County Juvenile Justice Commission and conducted a review and produce a report for the commission. I am on the board of the Sikh Sports Association (a Non-Profit Organization).
Considering your experience and activities in business, labor, School, professional, social,
Commissions, Boards, or other organizations, indicate the experience, training, knowledge and/or skills which qualify you for appointment.
The portfolio of experiences that I bring forth distinctly positions me as a well-qualified candidate for the proposed appointment. My diverse professional trajectory encompasses a spectrum of roles and responsibilities, each of which underscores my commitment to excellence and civic engagement.
Noteworthy facets of my background include: Contract Analysis and Expenditure Oversight: Within my current role at the Santa Clara County Office of Education, I am intricately involved in the rigorous analysis of contracts, accompanied by the meticulous scrutiny of expenditure reports. This professional involvement equips me with a comprehensive understanding of financial dynamics and strategic oversight. Engagement with Public Commissions: In 2020, I proudly served as a member of the Santa Clara County Juvenile Justice Commission, contributing insights and solutions to matters of social import.
This experience attests to my dedication to fostering a just and equitable community. Commitment to Education and Networks: As a longstanding member of the Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Educators Network at the Santa Clara County Office of Education since 2015, my engagement underscores a commitment to inclusivity and educational advancement. Moreover, my membership in the California Association of School Business Officials (CASBO) since 2010 underscores a commitment to best practices in school administration and fiscal management. Strategic Affiliations and Leadership: My alignment with the Fiscal Crisis & Management Assistance Team (FCMAT) and School Services of California since 2010 underscores a proactive stance towards efficient resource management. My tenure as President of the Bay Area Cultural & Sports Association, spanning from 2003 to 2020, signifies my organizational acumen in orchestrating youth cultural and sports endeavors. Nurturing Community through Sports: In my capacity as Director of the Sikh Sports Association of USA, I have facilitated the convergence of diverse communities through sports, nurturing engagement and camaraderie.
Longstanding Community Involvement: Since 1984, my voluntary role as Sports Director at the San Jose Gurdwara has enabled the orchestration and management of youth sports tournaments, instilling a sense of unity and shared purpose. Credentials and Governance Acumen: My attainment of School Business Management/Chief Business Official (CBO) Certification at USC underscores my proficiency in governance and financial stewardship. My familiarity with the Brown Act and its tenets, in addition to my engagements with the Santa Clara County Office of Education's Board and the Santa Clara County Juvenile Justice Commission, manifests my ability to navigate complex regulatory landscapes. These multifaceted experiences collectively underpin my aptitude for contributing effectively to the envisioned role, endowing me with a unique blend of strategic, fiscal, and community-oriented perspectives. My dedication to the highest standards of service, my commitment to ethical governance, and my fervor for community enrichment collectively exemplify the value I aspire to bring to the proposed appointment.
What is your understanding of the purpose of the Commission? The City of San José Airport Commission is an advisory body to the Director of Aviation and the San José City Council. The Commission investigates, studies, and reviews matters relating to the Airport and its development as the City Council and the Director of Aviation may require, or as requested by the general public.
Jasvinder Sohal
Please list three issues facing the City that you feel the Council should address.
Here are three significant issues that I believe the City Council of San Jose should prioritize for effective governance and community betterment: 1. Transportation and Traffic Congestion: The City of San Jose faces persistent challenges related to transportation infrastructure and traffic congestion. Addressing the growing demand for efficient and sustainable transportation options is crucial. The Council should focus on expanding public transit systems, improving connectivity between neighborhoods, and investing in infrastructure for pedestrian and cyclist safety. By implementing comprehensive traffic management strategies and promoting alternative modes of transportation, the Council can alleviate congestion, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and enhance overall mobility. 2. Housing Affordability and Homelessness:
The escalating cost of housing has led to a housing affordability crisis, exacerbating homelessness and housing insecurity. The Council should pursue measures to increase the availability of affordable housing units, encourage mixed-income developments, and explore innovative housing solutions such as modular construction and adaptive reuse of spaces. Collaborating with nonprofit organizations and streamlining permitting processes can help expedite housing projects and provide relief to vulnerable populations. 3.
Environmental Sustainability and Climate Resilience: San Jose, like many urban centers, faces challenges related to environmental sustainability and climate change. The Council should prioritize initiatives to mitigate the city's carbon footprint, enhance resilience to climate-related risks, and promote renewable energy adoption. Implementing green building standards, expanding green spaces, and investing in flood mitigation infrastructure can contribute to a more sustainable and climate-resilient future for the city. These issues reflect complex and interconnected challenges that require strategic planning, collaboration with stakeholders, and the allocation of resources to drive positive outcomes for the residents of San Jose. Addressing these priorities will contribute to a more livable, equitable, and sustainable city for current and future generations. For the current and next few years, the city budget issue will further complicate the issue listed above.
Jasvinder Sohal
Question applies to
Airport Commission
What are the three most critical challenges facing Mineta San Jose International Airport in the next five
years?
What do you bring to the table in terms of experience, expertise, or perspective to help address these challenges
The Mineta San Jose International Airport is likely to face several challenges in the coming years. While it's difficult to predict with absolute certainty, the following three challenges are anticipated to be among the most critical: 1. Capacity and Infrastructure Expansion: One of the foremost challenges for Mineta San Jose International Airport will be managing and accommodating the increasing demand for air travel. As the Silicon Valley region continues to thrive economically, passenger traffic is likely to rise, putting strain on existing infrastructure, terminals, runways, and parking facilities. The airport will need to develop comprehensive plans for expansion, modernization, and improvements to ensure smooth operations, minimize congestion, and provide a positive passenger experience. 2. Air Service and Route Development: Securing and maintaining a diverse range of air services and routes is crucial for the airport's growth and connectivity. Competition from neighboring airports and shifting airline strategies can impact the availability of flights and destinations. Mineta San Jose International Airport will need to actively engage with airlines, establish strong business cases, and offer incentives to attract new routes while retaining existing ones. Balancing the needs of leisure and business travelers, as well as addressing potential disruptions like fuel price fluctuations and geopolitical factors, will be paramount. 3.
Environmental Sustainability and Regulations: Environmental considerations are becoming increasingly important for airports worldwide. Mineta San Jose International Airport must navigate evolving environmental regulations, noise abatement concerns, and sustainable practices to reduce its carbon footprint. The airport's expansion plans must align with environmental standards and address local community concerns to ensure minimal impact on air and noise quality. Balancing growth with environmental responsibility will require innovative solutions, investments in cleaner technologies, and community engagement to maintain harmonious relations. While these challenges are anticipated, the airport's ability to proactively address them through strategic planning, collaboration with stakeholders, and adaptability will determine its success in navigating the complexities of the aviation industry in the next five years.
My professional expertise is characterized by a profound proficiency in the comprehensive analysis of diverse datasets and reports. In my present capacity within the county, I am tasked with the meticulous analysis of master facilities plans in conjunction with both the facilities team and the maintenance and operational team. This collaborative effort is dedicated to the strategic assessment of forthcoming expenditures, contractual obligations, competitive bidding protocols, and the procurement of goods and services. Integral to my skill set is the capacity to adeptly dissect and address budgetary considerations as they intersect with the realm of revenue versus expenditures within a given project context. My role necessitates a nuanced comprehension of the intricate landscape of California Assembly and Senate Bills, particularly those exerting influence upon local school districts and the County Office of Education's procurement initiatives encompassing goods, professional services, and construction. A pivotal facet of my current responsibilities involves an unwavering commitment to maintaining a nuanced understanding of Federal, State, and local legislative frameworks governing government procurement.
This rigorous adherence to legal compliance is not only imperative but emblematic of my commitment to upholding the highest standards of accountability and ethical practice. This profusion of skills is intrinsically transferable to the task of methodically navigating and comprehending the intricate tapestry of the San Jose Municipal Code, Federal regulations, and State laws that collectively govern air traffic and flight regulations within the purview of the City of San Jose and its airport. This capacity to harmonize legal expertise with the nuanced dynamics of aviation intricacies underscores my potential contribution to the esteemed Airport Commission.
Jasvinder Sohal
Question applies to
Airport Commission
What can the Airport do to balance its obligations as a “good neighbor” and as a world- class international
airport for Silicon Valley?
If there is a conflict in achieving an appropriate
balance, how would you resolve it?
SJC is situated at the epicenter of a bustling metropolis, the airport assumes a pivotal role in striking a judicious equilibrium between its role as a responsible neighbor and a distinguished international aviation hub. Of paramount significance is the mitigation of noise, an enduring concern impacting specific communities. In this context, my approach would encompass diligent collaboration with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to undertake a comprehensive reassessment of flight trajectories, frequencies, and altitudes. This collaborative effort seeks to curtail noise propagation and its subsequent impact on the affected populace.
Moreover, I envision an active involvement in advising the City of San Jose on the formulation of tailored programs, specially designed to ameliorate the quality of life for residents contending with airplane noise disturbances. Such programs could encompass sound insulation initiatives, community engagement endeavors, and the facilitation of respite measures.
Integral to this
endeavor is the establishment of a structured feedback mechanism, designed to solicit insights and concerns from residents directly affected by noise disruptions. A robust and transparent system would facilitate a constant influx of valuable input, thereby driving a cycle of continuous enhancement. In tandem with this, a robust analytical framework would be harnessed to scrutinize the efficacy of implemented measures, ensuring that iterative refinements are applied in response to the ever-evolving needs of the community. By orchestrating a symphony of collaboration, data-driven decision-making, and responsive engagement, I am resolute in my dedication to orchestrating a harmonious coexistence wherein the airport's stature as a world-class international gateway remains indomitable while fostering an environment of well-being and tranquility for the surrounding communities.
Question applies to
Airport Commission
What can the City of San José and the Airport do to engage Silicon Valley business leaders and other
communities to support the Airport’s efforts to increase air service and add routes to SJC? What can you do
personally to help achieve this goal?
I would employ a strategic approach, I would systematically gather insights and data pertinent to the aviation needs of Silicon Valley's business leaders and surrounding communities through surveys and targeted communication channels. This comprehensive data collection process would enable a nuanced understanding of the demand for both additional and expanded flight routes.
A pivotal facet of my strategy
would involve cultivating meaningful collaborations with prominent local businesses and influential industry associations. This entails capitalizing on their robust networks and authoritative stature to galvanize tangible support for the airport's expansion initiatives. By orchestrating collaborative events, workshops, and conferences, a cohesive sense of purpose and shared objectives can be fostered, effectively aligning stakeholders toward a common vision.
Armed with substantiated data highlighting the
imperative for augmented routes at Mineta San Jose International Airport (SJC), I would proceed to establish and cultivate strategic relationships with airlines. Demonstrating the palpable demand for heightened air services and enhanced route options, underpinned by quantifiable economic advantages, is instrumental in galvanizing airline interest. I would leverage this compelling case to advocate for the introduction of new routes, underscoring the added value they bring to the region.
Incentivizing and
bolstering airlines forms a pivotal facet of this endeavor. Financial incentives, such as tailored reductions in landing fees, along with targeted marketing support, can underscore the advantages of choosing SJC as a preferred airport. Furthermore, the development of targeted marketing campaigns would showcase the inherent benefits of San Jose's airport, encompassing streamlined processes, cost-effectiveness, and geographical proximity to the heart of Silicon Valley. By harnessing digital platforms, social media channels, and local media avenues, these messages can be disseminated effectively, ensuring wide- ranging visibility and resonance.
In summation, my approach entails a comprehensive blend of data- driven analysis, strategic partnerships, advocacy, and targeted marketing efforts. This multifaceted strategy is poised to elevate Mineta San Jose International Airport's prominence while fortifying its role as a pivotal catalyst for regional economic growth and enhanced connectivity.
Jasvinder Sohal
(Optional) Please upload a resume.
Anything else you would like us to know?
In addition to the qualifications and skills highlighted earlier, I am motivated by a profound sense of civic duty and a genuine commitment to contributing meaningfully to the enhancement of our city's vital infrastructure and services. My desire to join the Airport Commission is rooted in a deep-seated appreciation for the pivotal role that the Mineta San Jose International Airport plays in fostering economic growth, connectivity, and the overall well-being of our community. Having resided in San Jose for decades, I have witnessed firsthand the city's evolution and growth. This longstanding association has instilled within me a keen understanding of the aspirations, needs, and concerns of our local residents. I am resolute in my belief that the Airport Commission offers an unparalleled platform through which I can leverage my expertise, experience, and acumen to contribute to informed decision-making that will shape the airport's trajectory in a manner that resonates positively with our community. Furthermore, my immersion in diverse sectors, ranging from technology to public service, has endowed me with a unique vantage point that can facilitate the infusion of innovative thinking and pragmatic solutions into the commission's deliberations. My capacity to seamlessly bridge the realms of intricate data analysis, legislative compliance, and strategic planning equips me to make substantive contributions to the commission's pursuits. As I stand at the cusp of retirement, I am steadfast in my commitment to channeling my energy, passion, and intellect into meaningful avenues of service. Joining the Airport Commission aligns perfectly with this aspiration, affording me the privilege to apply my cumulative wisdom to an endeavor that not only shapes the city's aviation landscape but also exemplifies my unwavering dedication to the betterment of San Jose and its thriving community.
Retirement Board Questions Only
Jasvinder Sohal
Verification
By checking the box below, you agree with the following statement.
I agree that all of the information contained in my responses to the questions on this application are true and accurate to the best of my knowledge. I further agree that, by checking the box below and submitting this application, online or otherwise, I am affixing my digital signature to this form as of the date submitted.
I Agree
*
Jasvinder Sohal
Submit Date: Aug 22, 2023
First Name
Last Name
Email Address
Street Address
Suite or Apt
City
State
Postal Code
Primary Phone
Alternate Phone
CITY OF SAN JOSE, CALIFORNIA
Boards and Commissions Application
Profile
Please note, applications are continuously accepted to the City of San Jose Boards and Commissions. The Board or Commission you select may or may not indicate there is a vacancy.
Your application will remain on file for one year from the date of submission. During the year, your application may be considered for unanticipated vacancies.
Additionally, applicants to the following commissions will be required to fill out a Form 700
(California State required Statement of Economic Interest) within 30 days of appointment.
Airport Commission
Appeals Hearing Board
Arena Authority
Arts Commission
Civil Service Commission
Deferred Compensation Advisory Committee (DCAC)
Downtown Parking Board
Board of Fair Campaign and Political Practices (formerly Ethics Commission) Federated and Police & Fire Retirement Boards
Historic Landmarks Commission
Housing & Community Development Commission
Work2future (SVWIB) Board
Planning Commission*
Are you a resident of San Jose?
Yes
No
What district do you live in? To verify, please click here:
https://rovservices.sccgov.org/Home/IndexPost?
selected=dt&electionId=133&distance=5&navtab=vc&asm=simple *
District 8
Length of Residency
6 or more years
Surjit
Bains
San Jose
CA
95148
Surjit Bains
Employer
Job Title
Which Boards would you like to apply for?
Airport Commission: Submitted
Question applies to multiple boards
If appointed, would you be able to show proof of updated COVID-19 vaccination (inclusive of booster)?
Yes
No
Current Employer Address
Current Employer of Spouse
N/A
Address of Current Employer of Spouse
Spouse's Job Title
Housewife
If you or your spouse is retired and receiving a pension, please state source of pension.
State of California (Caltrans)
Demographics (Optional)
The demographic information you choose to provide is
VOLUNTARY
and
OPTIONAL
. This
information will be kept separate from your application and will not be used for evaluating applications or making appointments. The City of San José will use this information to solely conduct research and compile statistical reports regarding the composition of its Board and Commission applicants.
Question applies to multiple boards
Ethnicity
Self Employed
President
Surjit Bains
To which gender identity do you most identify?
Interests & Experiences
High School, College, Professional, Vocational, or Other Schools Attended. Please include Major or Field of Study, Dates Attended, Degree and Date of Degree.
San Jose State University Civil Engineering 1984 - 1987 Master in Civil Engineering (MS) California Professional Engineer License Civil, 1987
List any position or office held in any governmental agency, civic, or charitable organization including the dates.
Airport Commissioner, City of San Jose, June 2019 - June 2023 Traffic Appeals Commission, City of San Jose, May 1998 - June 2002
Board Member and Chairperson of Construction, Sikh Gurdwara San Jose, 1991 - Present
Senior Construction Engineer in Department of Transportation, Caltrans, 1991 - Present Languages Spoken
English, Hindi, and Punjabi
Special Awards or Recognitions Received
Recognition by the City Council, Airport management, Airport commissioners and by the Sikh Gurdwara serving as a commissioner devoting time and knowledge.
Special Recognition award serving as the
Traffic Appeals Commission from the City of San Jose. Excellence in Partnering award (twice) for safety improvements on Rte 17 and the widening of Rte 101 projects awarded by the State of California.
Dedicated Community Service award from the Sikh Temple San Jose. Contribution and Promoting Sports award from the Bay Area Sports Association.
Please state why you want to become a member of this Board or Commission including specific objectives which you would work toward as a member.
During my last tenure, I enjoyed serving the City and learning its issues. I enjoyed participating as a team player to find positive steps to promote a friendly atmosphere for the travelling public. I wish to serve the City in an advisory capacity for the City Council and airport management. As a Board Member, I will utilize my educational background and technical experience to help the City, airport staff, stakeholders, and the Public to make San Jose Airport an ideal place in the nation. I have experience in dealing with the public, participating in public meetings for upcoming construction projects, and working with the homeless populations issue. I have also conducted various public meetings to address any noise and environmental issues. I will work to ensure that decisions are based on merit and all are treated equally regardless. I will listen to the needs and voices of the public to make for a smooth and fair experience at the Airport. In this position, my presence will advance both diversity and representation for the Sikh community within the South Bay Area. I will strive to ensure a prompt response for any emergency, incident, or accident, as well as improve the scheduling of flights to reduce airport congestion. Additionally, I will accommodate passengers by developing attractive lodging near the vicinity of the Airport.
Surjit Bains
Please state any other information which you feel would be useful in reviewing your application
With my four years experience as a Commissioner, I plan to help meet community expectations by providing excellent service in a timely manner to provide a pleasant and friendly airport amongst the nation. I have many exposures due to working closely with cities, local agencies, and stakeholders to aid in promoting partnering techniques. I played a major role as a team member in analyzing and solving the issues of transportation projects in a timely manner. My previous experience working with the city as a Traffics Appeal Commissioner will provide me with the necessary skills to deal with any issues the San Jose Airport will face. I have attained a broad experience in leading fundraising events for both community needs and projects at the Sikh temple, as well as setting up new business ventures.
Do you own property in the City of San José?
Yes
No
If yes, please list the addresses here.
Do you rent property in the City of San José?
Yes
No
If yes, is it a month-to-month lease?
Yes
No
Question applies to multiple boards
Are you currently experiencing homelessness or have you experienced it in the past?
Yes
No
State and local law require that you abstain from participation in decisions that may affect your financial interests, including sources of income, interest in real property, personal finances or investments.
In addition, if appointed, you may be required to fill out a disclosure statement which identifies certain financial interest beginning with the immediate twelve-month period prior to your appointment.
Please review the scope of your
board/commission in Municipal Code Chapter 2.08.
Based on your best judgment, does this
Board or Commission make decisions that may affect sources of income, interests in real property, personal finances or investments of you or your spouse?
Yes
No
If yes, please explain.
Please identify any organizations, associations, corporations, or entities by which you are employed or associated that might be affected by decisions of this Board or Commission, and the positions you hold in these entities.
Surjit Bains
Question applies to multiple boards
If appointed, you will be required to fill out a disclosure statement, which identifies certain of your financial interests beginning with the immediate twelve-month period prior to your appointment and annually on or before April 1 of each year thereafter. Please confirm that you have read Fair Political Practices Commission (FPPC) Form 700 Reference Pamphlet and agree to file required FPPC Form 700 Statements of Economic Interest, as required by current City Council Conflict of Interest resolution.
Yes No
Question applies to multiple boards
Have you ever been required to file a Statement of Economic Interest (Form 700) and failed to do so?
Yes No
Question applies to multiple boards
If yes, please explain in complete detail.
Question applies to multiple boards
Please confirm that you have reviewed and agree to comply with the San Jose Municipal Code Chapter 12.08 (Prohibition of Gifts), City of San Jose Ethics Policy (City Policy Manual
1.2.1), and City of San Jose Gift Policy (City Policy Manual 1.2.2).
Yes No
Reference 1 Name
Pattie Cortese
Reference 1 Address
Reference 1 Email address
Reference 1 Phone
Reference 2 Name
Sylvia Arenas
Reference 2 Address
Surjit Bains
Reference 2 Email address
Reference 2 Phone
Supplemental Questions
If applicable, have you ever attended or watched a meeting of the Commission(s) to which you are applying?
Yes No
Would you be available to attend meetings at the scheduled time? Yes No
Please describe your experience in serving on a Commission or Board.
Prior, I made appropriate decisions after listening to the community's concerns by visiting sites and taking into consideration the safety and surroundings through my position as a Traffics Appeal Commissioner. I learned how to properly coordinate with other commission members and how to correctly prepare one's self before meetings and presentations. I have also gained a broader perspective and more confidence by serving as a volunteer for non-profit organizations through my time.
Considering your experience and activities in business, labor, School, professional, social, Commissions, Boards, or other organizations, indicate the experience, training, knowledge and/or skills which qualify you for appointment.
Serving as a member of the Traffic Appeals Commission, I learned how to properly address and solve conflicts facing the community. From partnering with various departments, non-profit organizations, public entities, and communities, I gained the knowledge of how to listen to others and work as a team player.
After successfully completing more than 35 million dollar temple projects as the Chairperson of the Construction Committee of the Sikh Gurdwara, I am more competent and confident for future community projects.
What is your understanding of the purpose of the Commission? To listen to the community to promote growth. To act as a team member to minimize the delays and complaints from the public. To analyze the issues and find reasonable solutions for unions, employees, stakeholders, and visitors. To ensure a friendly facility with safe operations. To coordinate with City staff to promote the attraction of the airport and to promote ideas from other airports to generate more revenue. To discuss potential issues in advance to avoid any possible conflicts for a safe atmosphere.
Surjit Bains
Please list three issues facing the City that you feel the Council should address.
Homeless Populations Traffic Congestion Dwelling Shortage Question applies to
Airport Commission
What are the three most critical challenges facing Mineta San Jose International Airport in the next five
years?
What do you bring to the table in terms of experience, expertise, or perspective to help address these challenges
Noise and Pollution Control - Promote clean air vehicles and encourage use of modern planes with less noise pollution.
Traffic Congestion - Acquire additional Right-of-Way for airport expansions to reduce congestion, construct underground parking lots, connect light rails/BART, and further VTA shuttle services.
Security and Safety - Increase use of modern technology throughout the Airport (surveillance cameras, sensors, alarms) and properly train staff for airport security and safety. Through my experience as a transportation engineer and community service, I can help make this vision successful.
Question applies to
Airport Commission
What can the Airport do to balance its obligations as a “good neighbor” and as a world- class international
airport for Silicon Valley?
If there is a conflict in achieving an appropriate
balance, how would you resolve it?
To improve the Airport's reputation as a "good neighbor", we can partner with Silicon Valley businessmen and women to contribute funds to make the airport environmentally friendly. We can achieve this through the use of modern fuel efficient planes and clean-air vehicles for transportation. If there is a conflict in achieving an appropriate balance, I will hold and conduct regular meetings with neighbors and Silicon Valley companies for their input to secure their concerns.
Question applies to
Airport Commission
What can the City of San José and the Airport do to engage Silicon Valley business leaders and other
communities to support the Airport’s efforts to increase air service and add routes to SJC? What can you do
personally to help achieve this goal?
The City can hire a reputable consultant firm with their expertise to give presentations to Silicon Valley business leaders and other community leaders to brief them on the issues the community faces as well as provide ideas on how to implement and improve air services. The invested funds can be generated by Silicon Valley business leaders which can be then be returned through the revenue on a term basis.
Personally, I will communicate with community leaders and business leaders known to myself. Also, through regular round table meetings and coordination with the consultant firm, I can utilize my educational and technical experience to increase air service and add international and domestic routes to SJC.
Surjit Bains
(Optional) Please upload a resume.
Anything else you would like us to know?
I will serve the board with dignity. I will use my technical experience and partnering techniques to make the best decisions for the city and the public.
Retirement Board Questions Only
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Surjit Bains