Submit Date: Aug 14, 2025
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 3
Length of Residency
6 or more years
Carman Gaines
San Jose CA 95112
Mobile:
Carman Gaines
Employer Job Title
Which Boards would you like to apply for?
Arts Commission: Submitted
Current Employer Address
Current Employer of Spouse
n/a
Address of Current Employer of Spouse
n/a
Spouse's Job Title
n/a
If you or your spouse is retired and receiving a pension, please state source of pension.
n/a
Local Color Deputy Director
Carman Gaines
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.
Harvard Business School | May 2023 - Jun 2023 | Young American Leadership Program San
Francisco State University, 2015-2017 | B.A. Art History and Studio Art De Anza College,
2011 - 2014 | A.A. Art History, Criticism, and Conservation List any position or office held in any governmental agency, civic, or charitable organization including the dates.
Local Color a 501(c)3, 2019 - present | Deputy Director Languages Spoken
English
Special Awards or Recognitions Received
My application for the 8 80 Cities Knight Championship program was accepted in 2025.
Creative Liberties was my project focused upon investing existing sites and strategies for ownership of community-owned arts hubs.
On April 8, 2023, I received a Certificate of
Recognition from the Office of Councilmember Peter Ortiz for my outstanding dedication to promoting the diversity, culture, and image of San José. Evidence through the coordination and production of 408 Day benefits the arts and cultural sector of the city.
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.
As an experienced arts administrator, I am passionate about supporting and promoting the arts in our community. I am interested in joining the Arts Commission to collaborate with peers and work towards the shared goal of enhancing the cultural landscape of our city.
Specifically, I would like to focus on increasing access to the arts for underserved communities and promoting diversity and inclusivity in all aspects of San José's cultural programming. I believe that the arts are essential to the well-being of our community, and I am excited about the possibility of serving on the Arts Commission to learn more about the behind-the-scenes processes and policy creation that impact this work.
Please state any other information which you feel would be useful in reviewing your application
As a lifelong resident of San José, I have a deep connection to this city and a strong desire to give back to my community. Supporting artists and the arts has been a personal passion of mine since high school, and I have continued to pursue this interest throughout my life. My personal art form is photography, and I believe that my knowledge and connections in the local artistic ecosystem would be an asset to the Arts Commission.
Do you own property in the City of San José?
Yes
No
If yes, please list the addresses here.
Carman Gaines
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.
Local Color is a 501(c)3 arts nonprofit in San José. Historically Local Color has participated in RFQs and is a recipient of the Operating Grant reviewed by the Arts Commission. In these situations, I would be prepared to disclose a potential conflict of interest and recuse myself as a decision-maker in that occurrence.
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
Carman Gaines
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
Amanda Rawson
Reference 1 Address
San José
Reference 1 Email address
Reference 1 Phone
Reference 2 Name
Jonathon Borca
Reference 2 Address
San José
Reference 2 Email address
Reference 2 Phone
Supplemental Questions
Carman Gaines
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.
I have not previously held a formal position on a Commission or Board; however, I have been deeply involved in community-based efforts to positively impact my hometown. I have actively participated in grassroots organizations and groups prioritizing consensus-based decision-making, which has allowed me to gain valuable experience collaborating with others toward common goals. This is my second time applying to join a commission, with my first application being for the recent formation of the Community Stabilization and Opportunity Pathways Fund Commission.
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.
As the Deputy Director of Local Color, my current position provides me with experience in managing charitable funds, developing equitable processes, supporting local creatives, and navigating the development events and artist-in-residence workspaces. In addition, my past positions in the arts, including my time as an administrative intern at MACLA and as a curatorial intern and employee at Southern Exposure, have provided me with valuable experiences in project management and compassionate communication with diverse groups.
Most recently, I was a part of the 9th cohort of the SVCreates SVMindshare, which strengthened my insights into leadership roles and the current landscape of arts and culture in Santa Clara County.
As a native of San Jose, I have been building and extending my social connections throughout the city to meet different artists and stakeholders, providing me with a unique perspective and a deep understanding of the diverse and vibrant arts community in San Jose.
What is your understanding of the purpose of the Commission? The City of San José Arts Commission plays a crucial role in supporting the arts and cultural activities in the city. Their purpose includes advocating for developing and implementing policies and programs that foster a diverse and vibrant arts community, budgeting funding for grants to artists and organizations, and promoting public art and cultural events.
Additionally, the Arts Commission serves as a liaison between the public and the City Council by providing reports, recommendations, and presentations on current challenges or successes experienced in the arts community in San José.
Carman Gaines
Please list three issues facing the City that you feel the Council should address.
One of the most pressing issues facing San José is the availability of affordable housing.
Many other cities have implemented rent control policies and other supports to help individuals maintain a quality of life by affording to remain in their homes. There is a recent development of AB812 to support the creation of Artist Workforce housing in designated cultural districts.
Addressing the mental health crisis of unhoused residents is another critical issue that needs to be addressed. This can be achieved by ensuring that systemic reasons for homelessness are addressed through public services and interventions that do not contribute to a revolving cycle of arrests, destruction of encampments, and other initiatives that do not address root issues.
Public safety is another area of concern that can
be improved through investment in the arts and culture. San José can enhance public safety by deterring the effects of blight and revitalizing public corridors of the city, including public underpasses, community centers, and parks. Implementing lighting and public art installations in problematic areas is a cost-effective and tangible way to improve the city landscape, setting a public tone for private investment to enhance spaces, rather than leaving desolate pockets of the city.
Question applies to
Arts Commission
Describe recent San José arts activities you have participated in during the last twelve months (up to five activities) and what drew you to attend? * Opening of BAE Infinite I had the privilege to curate my first exhibition, "Beyond All Else:Infinite," which opened on August 8th an Local Color's noble workshop & gallery. The exhibition is a commemorative contribution to Black August. The exhibition features the work of contemporary Black Artists living and working throughout the Bay Area, providing a shared platform of both emerging and established talents. *San Jose Jazz Summerfest I was
able to attend three events connected to 2025's San Jose Jazz Summerfest. This was my first year attending, and I enjoyed the sets by Common and Malo at the park—Bial at the San Jose Break Room, and a DJ set at the Hotel De Anza.
*Arts Builds Community Artist Swap Arts
Builds Community is a great organization shaping policy for the arts both within San José and across the region. They brought together a group of artists for a small market of materials, books, clothes, and other supplies. All proceeds went directly to the Artists. *MACLA's Annual
Art Auction MACLA was my entry point into the arts right out of high school, and during my internship with them, I supported their annual auction as an art handler. Although I couldn't afford the artwork for sale, I supported the cause with my ticket purchase and raised my paddle for a starting bid.
*San José Japantown's Obon Festival Weekend A lot was happening this weekend, including the Oban Festival along the main strip on Jackson. Additionally, Know Future Gallery had an opening of a new exhibition, the adjacent studio was open for visitors, and Empire 7 also had an exhibition. To complement Empire 7's exhibition, they had an after party at the Hotel De Anza with visiting DJs from LA.
Question applies to
Arts Commission
Describe the ways in which you believe the arts bring value to the general community.
As an artist and arts advocate, I believe the arts bring immense value to the community. Art can catalyze social change and can provide a voice for marginalized communities.
Celebrating a place’s unique culture and heritage can create a sense of belonging and community pride, especially with San José, where nearly every culture from around the globe can be found in our city.
The arts can also have a significant impact on individual well-being.
Engaging in creative activities has been shown to reduce stress, increase self-esteem, and provide a sense of purpose and fulfillment. It can also serve as a cathartic experience for individuals who can be part of a collective safe space anchored by the arts.
Beyond
individual benefits, the arts can also drive economic development, especially in a city of San José's size. Cultural events and creative businesses can retain residents and attract tourists, while also creating job opportunities for local artists and artisans.
Carman Gaines
Question applies to
Arts Commission
Should the City of San José have an active role in arts and cultural development? If so, in what ways and why?
The City of San José should support arts and cultural development by advocating for momentary and non-monetary support to artists and organizations, promoting public art installations, and collaborating with community stakeholders to develop cultural programming. Furthermore, the city has systems for partnering with schools and community organizations to provide arts education and other arts-related programs to residents, particularly those in underserved communities, through city-managed public spaces and community centers. By investing in arts and cultural development, the City can help create a more vibrant and inclusive community that benefits all residents. The City of San José has resources and widespread connections that grassroots organizers do not, and the collaboration between the two can be transformative.
Question applies to
Arts Commission
How can you contribute to advising City Council on policy and programs related to cultural development in San José?
As a passionate advocate for the arts and culture in San José, I am committed to using my knowledge and experience to advise the City Council on policy and programs related to cultural development. Active involvement in City processes and public events related to arts and culture is essential for staying informed about developments and needs in the community. My work history with local arts organizations and other community members can contribute to future collaboration on projects and initiatives that promote the growth and development of the arts and culture in San José. My perspectives and lived experiences would be beneficial in supporting the conversations that can lead toward creating cultural districts and increasing equitable access to arts and culture. My fiscal sponsorship experience with Local Color would lend to discussions of policies to support artists and creative professionals, such as affordable artist workforce housing, funding for artist fellowships, and resources for professional development.
I am eager to contribute to the
ongoing dialogue and help shape policies and programs that will benefit the entire community. By taking these actions, I believe I can make a meaningful contribution to cultural development in San José and help ensure that the City's rich cultural scenes continue to thrive.
What is the purpose of historic preservation in San José and what is the role of the Historic Landmarks Commission in achieving that purpose? I understand historic preservation in San José is not about freezing the city in time, but about ensuring that as we grow, we retain and honor the cultural and architectural stories that make us unique. The Historic Landmarks Commission plays a key role in balancing this — they ensure that our future development is rooted in our history and that the diversity of our communities is reflected in what we protect.
Please explain your prior experience with historic preservation, with San José’s public planning processes, and in working with City or other public agency staff.
While I have not had direct, hands-on experience in formal historic preservation projects, I am a strong supporter of the preservation of San José’s cultural and architectural heritage. I actively stay informed on preservation priorities and issues through the work of the Preservation Action Council of San José (PAC*SJ), regularly reviewing their advocacy updates, newsletters, and public meeting reports.
My professional work in arts leadership has often
intersected with preservation values — centering local history, honoring cultural narratives, and elevating community voices in place-based projects. I believe my ability to build partnerships, navigate public processes, and advocate for community interests can translate well into effective service on the Commission, where I can contribute to informed, equity- focused decision-making around historic preservation in San José.
Carman Gaines
(Optional) Please upload a resume.
Anything else you would like us to know?
Thank you for considering my application. I am excited about the opportunity to serve on the Arts Commission and to contribute to the cultural development of San José. I believe that my profound commitment to the arts, experience in the community, and dedication to public service make me a strong candidate for this appointment.
Retirement Board Questions Only
Verification
Carman Gaines
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
*
Carman Gaines
Submit Date: Aug 27, 2025
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 1
Length of Residency
3-5 years
Daniel Cao
San Jose CA 95129
Mobile:
Daniel Cao
Employer Job Title
Which Boards would you like to apply for?
Planning Commission: Submitted
Current Employer Address
Current Employer of Spouse
County of Santa Clara
Address of Current Employer of Spouse
Spouse's Job Title
Occupational Therapist
If you or your spouse is retired and receiving a pension, please state source of pension.
County of Santa Clara Policy Aide
Daniel Cao
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.
Cupertino High School, August 2006 - June 2010, high school diploma. UC Berkeley, January 2011 - December 2013, Public Health B.A. UC Berkeley, August 2014 - May 2016, Masters in Public Health Epidemiology & Biostatistics.
List any position or office held in any governmental agency, civic, or charitable organization including the dates.
Health Services Institutional Review Board Member for Santa Clara Valley Healthcare, August 2017 - June 2018. Prevention Program Analyst and Mental Health Program Specialist for Santa Clara County Behavioral Health Services Department, June 2018 - March 2021.
Rosemary Kamei for City of San Jose District 1, March 2022 - June 2022. Policy Aide for Santa Clara County Supervisor Otto Lee, April 2021 - Current.
Languages Spoken
English, Vietnamese, Spanish
Special Awards or Recognitions Received
2014-2015 Kaiser Permanente Public Health Scholar. 2022 Silicon Valley Asian Pacific American Democratic Club Rising Star Award. October 1, 2022 Certificate of Recognition from the California State Legislature.
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 would like to become a member of Planning Commission because I want to address land use issues in the City of San Jose and make it easier to address our homelessness crisis, housing affordability issues, and make our built environment more conducive to a productive and healthy lifestyle. One specific objective I have as a member of this Commission would be to make it easier for the younger generations, myself included, to afford living in San Jose. Currently, it isn't realistic for many younger people to live in San Jose and start families due to the high cost of housing. Another objective is to ensure we do our best to both protect the environment while making it easier for housing developments to be approved.
Please state any other information which you feel would be useful in reviewing your application
I have worked as a policy aide for Santa Clara County Supervisor Otto Lee for the past four years and four months, giving me a firm grasp of reviewing policies, programs, and reports from County administration to practice preparing for Planning Commission meetings. I am a big believer in making informed decisions, so it is important for me to understand different perspectives on a particular issue and factor in a broad set of information before making a decision.
Do you own property in the City of San José?
Yes
No
Daniel Cao
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.
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
Daniel Cao
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
Otto Lee
Reference 1 Address
Reference 1 Email address
Reference 1 Phone
Reference 2 Name
Elisa Koff-Ginsborg
Reference 2 Address
Reference 2 Email address
Reference 2 Phone
Supplemental Questions
Question applies to Board of Fair Campaign and Political Practices, Civil Service Commission,Planning Commission Are you a registered voter in the City of San Jose? (Please note, your voter registration will be independently verified)
Yes No
Daniel Cao
Question applies to
Civil Service Commission,
Board of Fair Campaign and Political Practices,
Planning Commission
Please provide the name and residential address under which you are registered to vote. If it is the same as listed above, please note see above.
See above
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.
This would be my first Commission or Board.
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.
I have a variety of experiences, training, knowledge and skills which qualify me for the San Jose Planning Commission appointment. I have a deep understanding of local government and what it takes to make high quality decisions to incrementally improve society. From the perspectives of both a county staff member at the Behavioral Health Services Department dealing with program implementation and as a policy aide with Santa Clara County Supervisor Otto Lee supporting policy decision-making, I've been trained to understand how administration operates and how an elected official and decision-making body operates. I have working knowledge of policy analysis, making policy recommendations, and what it takes to implement new policies and programs. As the campaign coordinator for then- candidate Rosemary Kamei for San Jose City Council in spring 2022, I was exposed to land use issues in San Jose such as the El Paseo project and the Costco Westgate project.
Teaching at San Jose State University for four years allowed me to practice good public speaking skills and how to be confident in front of people. With my experience in football with the California Golden Bears and San Francisco 49ers, I learned about having a strong work ethic and a blue-collar attitude.
What is your understanding of the purpose of the Commission? My understanding of the purpose of the Planning Commission is to work with the General Plan to make improvements, advise the San Jose City Council for land use issues, work closely with the Planning Director and Department, and help physically develop the City of San Jose to make it a safer, affordable, efficient, and more vibrant city.
Daniel Cao
Please list three issues facing the City that you feel the Council should address.
The Council should address housing affordability since younger generations like myself are increasingly being priced out of the city. Another issue is improving alternatives to driving to reduce traffic and need for parking including public transportation, ridesharing, biking, and walking. Last but not least, the Council needs to find more ways to connect city residents to each other and build stronger, more resilient communities. Especially for residents who typically don't engage civically, it's important to build the sense of community and promote more opportunities for these residents to meaningfully engage with city government, neighborhood leaders, and with each other.
Question applies to multiple boards
Do you meet the requirements for appointment to this commission?
Yes
No
What is the purpose of historic preservation in San José and what is the role of the Historic Landmarks Commission in achieving that purpose? I believe the purpose of historic preservation in San Jose is to protect what makes this city special and proudly showcase the story of the city. The role of the Historic Landmarks Commission is to create and protect landmarks and areas that have significant meaning to San Jose.
Please explain your prior experience with historic preservation, with San José’s public planning processes, and in working with City or other public agency staff.
Although I don't have experience with historic preservation or San Jose's public planning process, I have worked with City of San Jose staff and Santa Clara County staff extensively through my work as a policy aide for Santa Clara County Supervisor Otto Lee. For example, I helped coordinate a County project for a 28-bed adult residential treatment facility at 650 South Bascom Ave. and worked closely with former Councilmember Davis' office to coordinate with the Planning Department and Fire Department on permitting and inspections.
Daniel Cao
(Optional) Please upload a resume.
Anything else you would like us to know?
If approved as a commissioner, I will bring my charisma, work ethic, and dedication to the San Jose Planning Commission!
Retirement Board Questions Only
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
*
Daniel Cao