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.
Santa Clara University, School of Law (Juris Doctor/Law); 2000 to 2003 UCLA, (BS/Physiology); 1995 to 1998
List any position or office held in any governmental agency, civic, or charitable organization including the dates.
American Bar Association, Intellectual Property Section, Chair of China IP group, August 2021 to July 2023
Languages Spoken
English
Special Awards or Recognitions Received
BT Collins Public Interest Fellowship
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 am eager to apply to serve as a board member on the Appeals Hearing Board, to further my deep committed to supporting my community by ensuring fair, equitable, and efficient resolution of disputes that impact the quality of life in San Jose. My legal background, combined with my experience in managing complex legal and regulatory matters, positions me to contribute meaningfully to the Board's quasi-judicial role. I am particularly drawn to this opportunity because it allows me to use my skills to uphold accountability, ensure due process, and balance the needs of residents, businesses, and the City. If selected, I would focus on the following four specific objectives: Promoting Fairness and Transparency: I will work to ensure that all cases brought before the Board are adjudicated in a fair, consistent, and transparent manner. I will advocate for clear communication of decisions and reasoning to help build trust between the community and the municipal government, consistent with the Brown Act. Streamlining Administrative Processes: Drawing from my legal and policy experience, I will identify opportunities to refine and enhance the administrative remedies process to make it more efficient, accessible, and user-friendly for all parties involved, especially those unfamiliar with legal proceedings. Upholding Community Standards: I aim to adjudicate issues of municipal code/ordinance enforcement thoughtfully, balancing the need for compliance with a compassionate approach that considers the unique circumstances of residents and property owners. This includes addressing blight, safety, and public health issues to improve the quality of life in San Jose. Fostering Collaboration and Education: I will prioritize fostering collaboration among city departments, residents, and businesses to improve compliance and prevent recurring violations.
Please state any other information which you feel would be useful in reviewing your application
Serving on this Board aligns with my professional commitment to justice and public service, and I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to San Jose's continued growth and improvement.
Martin Nguyen
Employer Job Title
Which Boards would you like to apply for?
Appeals Hearing Board: Submitted
Current Employer Address
Current Employer of Spouse
City of San Mateo
Address of Current Employer of Spouse
Spouse's Job Title
Police Officer
If you or your spouse is retired and receiving a pension, please state source of pension.
Genevieve Altwer/Applicant : Retirement from CALPERS
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.
Education: M.A in Clinical Counseling Psychology, Attended 2013-2017 (Graduated 2017) John F Kennedy University, San Jose, CA M.A in Criminal Justice Studies, Attended 2001-2002 (Graduated 2002) John Jay College of Criminal Justice, New York, NY B.S in Administration of Justice, Attended 1998-2001 (Graduated 2001) San Jose State University, San Jose, CA High School: Archbishop Mitty High School 1994-1998 South Bay Regional Training Consortium:
Police Academy Graduate , 2003
List any position or office held in any governmental agency, civic, or charitable organization including the dates.
Police Officer, City of San Mateo 2003-2017
Self
Marriage and Family
Therapist
Genevieve Altwer
What is the purpose of historic preservation in San José and what is the role of the Historic Landmarks Commission in achieving that purpose? The purpose of historic preservation in San José is to protect and celebrate buildings and sites that have historical or architectural importance, all cataloged in the city's Historic Resources Inventory. The Historic Landmarks Commission helps make this happen by identifying potential landmarks, reviewing changes to historic sites, and advising the City Council on preservation actions. They work with the Historic Preservation Officer and gather community input to make sure these efforts support the city’s vision. This work keeps San José’s heritage alive, adds to its unique character, and supports thoughtful city planning.
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.
My prior experience with historic preservation and San José’s public planning processes is grounded in my longstanding commitment to this community and active engagement with city initiatives. As a former police officer (San Mateo), I gained valuable insight into city policies and public planning, especially as they relate to maintaining public safety and preserving the integrity of our neighborhoods. My family has also volunteered with the city (San Jose) during park cleanup days, which has given me an on-the-ground understanding of the importance of preserving San José’s green spaces and public areas. In addition, I frequently explore San José's historical landmarks with my children, instilling in them an appreciation for our city’s rich history. This personal connection has deepened my understanding of the importance of preserving these landmarks for future generations. I also volunteer with organizations like Autism Speaks that utilize and celebrate these historic sites, reinforcing my commitment to ensuring they remain valuable, accessible resources for our community. Through these experiences, I have developed a respect for San José’s heritage and a desire to work collaboratively with city staff to preserve our city’s unique character.
Genevieve Altwer
Employer Job Title
Which Boards would you like to apply for?
Appeals Hearing Board: Submitted
Current Employer Address
Current Employer of Spouse
San Jose City College
Address of Current Employer of Spouse
Spouse's Job Title
Associate Faculty
If you or your spouse is retired and receiving a pension, please state source of pension.
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.
Oak Grove HS - 1985 University of Phoenix - BA Marketing 2005 Lincoln Law School of San Jose - JD 2010
List any position or office held in any governmental agency, civic, or charitable organization including the dates.
Appeals Hearing Board - 2013 to present
Law Office of Ronald A.
Cabanayan Attorney at Law
Ronald Cabanayan