CITY OF SAN MATEO
City Council Special Meeting
Appointment Subcommittee to
the Park and Recreation
Commission
May 27, 2025
6:00 PM
City Hall Conference Room C
Entrance is on O’Farrell Street
SUBCOMMITTEEE MEMBERS
Rob Newsom Jr.
Adam Loraine
Nicole Fernandez
Danielle Cwirko-Godycki
AGENDA
CALL TO ORDER
Roll Call
NEW BUSINESS
The public will have an opportunity to comment during the consideration of this item.
1. Park and Recreation Commissioner – Interviews
The Appointment Subcommittee for the Park and Recreation Commission, comprised of Mayor Robert Newsom Jr., Deputy Mayor Adam Loraine, Councilmember Danielle Cwirko-Godycki, and Councilmember Nicole Fernandez, with Park and Recreation Director, Joanne Magrini advising. The Subcommittee will interview the following applicants to fill two regular seats on the commission, one youth commissioner seat on the commission, and the establish an eligibility list for a future vacancies.
Oliver B.
Ellie C.
Zachary S.
Dahlia A.
Pranav S.
Advika S.
Sabrina Ocampo
Paul Costello
Carol Palacio
Cecilia T eng
Sarah Fields
Andrew Reback
Stephen Mayer
Dianne Whitaker
Andrew Ryan
ADJOURNMENT
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- AGENDAS: Agendas and material are posted on the City’s website on the Friday preceding each Council Meeting and can be viewed on the City's website at
www.cityofsanmateo.org
.
Any supplemental material distributed to the Council after the posting of the agenda will be made part of the
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official record.
PUBLIC COMMENTS/REQUEST TO SPEAK
Prior to the Meeting
Send comments to: [email protected] until 4 p.m. the day of the meeting.
During the meeting
In Person: At the meeting complete a “Request to Speak” form, submit a request to the City Clerk ACCESSIBILITY: In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, those with disabilities requiring special accommodations to participate in this meeting may contact the City Clerk’s Office at (650) 522-7040 or [email protected]
. Notification 48 hours prior to the meeting will enable the City to make reasonable arrangements to ensure accessibility to this meeting.
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CITY OF SAN MATEO
BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS APPLICATION
Park and Recreation Commission
Commissioner
REQUIREMENTS:
• Resident and a registered voter of the City of San Mateo • Meeting attendance required
• If appointed, must attend a commissioner orientation session & any training offered
BACKGROUND INFORMATION
Name: Andrew Reback
Email:
Primary
Phone:
Address: San Mateo
Street City Zip Code
San Mateo resident
since: 2013 I am a registered voter in City of San Mateo: Yes Board or Commission interested in serving on (check all that apply):
Did you attend a meeting for this Board or
Commission?: Yes
QUALIFICATIONS
My qualifications for serving on this board/commission are as follows: I bring 30 years of leadership experience in product management and operations, with deep expertise in strategic planning, stakeholder engagement, and delivering results at scale. I hold degrees in Engineering, Business Administration, and City Planning, giving me a unique perspective at the intersection of infrastructure, community needs, and long-term visioning. As a long-time San Mateo resident and active parent of two, I’ve spent years immersed in our local parks and recreation spaces—as a volunteer, coach, planner, and advocate. My experience on school boards, nonprofit committees, and community events has taught me how to listen, collaborate, and get things done. I’ve led initiatives through PTA boards and myriad of business and non-profit efforts, and understand the importance of inclusive planning, transparent communication, and thoughtful investment in public infrastructure. I also bring a collaborative approach and a systems mindset that can help the commission make data- informed, community-centered decisions.
I want to serve on this board/commission because: I want to help shape the future of San Mateo’s parks and recreation facilities so they best serve all neighborhoods and continue to be a true point of pride for our city. Parks and associated facilities are essential to our city’s health, equity, and quality of life—and I believe we can do much more to make them thriving, accessible, and innovative. I’m especially interested in ensuring investment prioritization aligns with community needs, defining sustainable funding strategies, and building partnerships with schools and other institutions—such as expanding public access to pools and athletic spaces. San Mateo deserves a best-in-class parks and recreation system, and I’d be honored to help move us in that direction.
Please list any other background information (business, education, community involvement) which might be useful in considering your appointment and attach a resume: Professionally, I’ve held leadership and executive roles at companies including Facebook, Lyft, Zendesk, and Intuit, as well as advising startups and nonprofits. I’ve worked at Philadelphia’s Center City District as director of strategy and know directly the impact and benefit and tactical challenges of parks, from that perspective as well. Active community member: Engaged parent of two kids (both of who’ve gone through SMFCSD schools), previous PTA board member at Parkside Montessori, youth sports coach, mini-camp organizer, board member at Peninsula Temple Sholom. Experience with cross-sector planning, capital project prioritization, public-private partnerships, and stakeholder alignment—all relevant to the work of the commission.
Graduate of:
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Please mail or submit this application to the San Mateo City Clerk’s Office:
City Clerk's Office, 330 W. 20th Avenue, San Mateo, CA 94403, (650) 522-7040, [email protected]
By checking the box below, I hereby certify that all statements made in this application are true and I authorize investigation of all matters contained in the application. I acknowledge that any false statements or misrepresentation on this application will be cause for refusal of placement or immediate dismissal at any time during the period of my placement. I understand that the City of San Mateo is an Equal Opportunity Employer and this application is public.
Certified/Agreed
2025-04-30
Submitted By Date
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CITY OF SAN MATEO
BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS APPLICATION
Park and Recreation Commission
Commissioner
REQUIREMENTS:
• Resident and a registered voter of the City of San Mateo • Meeting attendance required
• If appointed, must attend a commissioner orientation session & any training offered
BACKGROUND INFORMATION
Name: Andrew Ryan
Email: [email protected] Primary Phone: (650) 308-8920 Address: 339 Parrott Dr San Mateo 94402
Street City Zip Code
San Mateo resident since: 2002 I am a registered voter in City of San Mateo: Yes Board or Commission interested in serving on (check all that apply):
Did you attend a meeting for this Board or
Commission?: Yes
QUALIFICATIONS
My qualifications for serving on this board/commission are as follows: I am good with people and I am good with bureaucracy and laws. I'm a creative problem solver. I know San Mateo's parks really well and have spent a lot of time in our parks. I've been to every one of our parks except Indian Springs. I'm not any kind of an expert on parks or park management, but I love learning new things. Whatever I don't know about already, I will become knowledgeable about. I will become an expert in whatever I need to become an expert on to do this job well.
I want to serve on this board/commission because: Public parks are important to me and they're in my DNA. I grew up in New York City and my only real exposure to nature growing up was at city parks. I am a homeowner and resident of San Mateo since 2002 and intend to stay in San Mateo for a long time. I love San Mateo's parks, which are some of my favorite places in the entire city, and I want to make our parks better now and in the future.
I really feel that San Mateo's parks are some of the jewels of the city, especially Central Park and the Japanese Garden. I have many great memories from watching my child grow up in San Mateo's parks and I want to help ensure that future generations of parents and children have these same opportunities to enjoy nature, playgrounds, ball fields and other park and recreation facilities. In particular, as commissioner my focus would be about building greater clarity on what the needs and wants of our community really are, and ensuring that we use what budget we have making a difference in meeting those needs. I am also interested in exploring more public/private partnerships, as I have seen how effective these can be in places like New York City's High Line park.
Please list any other background information (business, education, community involvement) which might be useful in considering your appointment and attach a resume: I have worked for Meta Platforms Inc. for the past 16 years as an engineer at a very high level. In my job as a high level engineer, I lead large projects, solve hard problems, and deal with people challenges in a large bureaucratic company. I believe that all of these skills translate very well to a role as a commissioner. In addition, over the past 1.5 years, I have been one of the founders and leaders of "Less Red Tape," (LRT) a community organization dedicated to upholding property rights and the democratic process, specifically fighting against the proposed Baywood historic district. In this role, I have had to learn to get to know and work with a variety of City, State, and Federal government officials, City employees, and help coordinate the activities of many volunteers. My experience in LRT has given me a tremendous amount of insight and experience into how government agencies operate, how city politics operates, and how to get things done in San Mateo. I know I can get things done as a commissioner and I am excited to give back to my community. I have a BS and MS from the University of California, Berkeley in Industrial Engineering and Operations Research. Go Bears!
Graduate of:
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Please mail or submit this application to the San Mateo City Clerk’s Office:
City Clerk's Office, 330 W. 20th Avenue, San Mateo, CA 94403, (650) 522-7040, [email protected]
By checking the box below, I hereby certify that all statements made in this application are true and I authorize investigation of all matters contained in the application. I acknowledge that any false statements or misrepresentation on this application will be cause for refusal of placement or immediate dismissal at any time during the period of my placement. I understand that the City of San Mateo is an Equal Opportunity Employer and this application is public.
Certified/Agreed
2025-02-05
Submitted By Date
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CITY OF SAN MATEO
BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS APPLICATION
Park and Recreation Commission
Commissioner
REQUIREMENTS:
• Resident and a registered voter of the City of San Mateo • Meeting attendance required
• If appointed, must attend a commissioner orientation session & any training offered
BACKGROUND INFORMATION
Name: Carol Palacio
Email:
Primary
Phone:
Address: San Mateo
Street City Zip Code
San Mateo resident
since: 1999 I am a registered voter in City of San Mateo: Yes Board or Commission interested in serving on (check all that apply):
Did you attend a meeting for this Board or
Commission?: No
QUALIFICATIONS
My qualifications for serving on this board/commission are as follows: I am the parent of a 19-year-old son who attended Parks & Rwc Summer Camps for many years, was in EDP, Junior Warriors at MLK. I coached youth soccer for 12 years with AYSO.
I want to serve on this board/commission because: I want to promote a joint agreement between San Mateo Parks & Rec and the San Mateo-Foster City School District to open school playgrounds on the weekends and after school so children have more places to play in their neighborhoods. We have many children in our neighborhood that live in apartment buildings and don’t have a place to play outside within a half mile of their house. Homeowners paid to have these playgrounds upgraded and now they are under lock and key. I would like to get them opened up to families citywide.
Please list any other background information (business, education, community involvement) which might be useful in considering your appointment and attach a resume: Credentialed K-12 Teacher. I currently work for San Mateo Superior Court as an Interpreter and teach at San Mateo Adult School on Tuesday and Thursday nights. Graduate of:null San Mateo
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Please mail or submit this application to the San Mateo City Clerk’s Office:
City Clerk's Office, 330 W. 20th Avenue, San Mateo, CA 94403, (650) 522-7040, [email protected]
By checking the box below, I hereby certify that all statements made in this application are true and I authorize investigation of all matters contained in the application. I acknowledge that any false statements or misrepresentation on this application will be cause for refusal of placement or immediate dismissal at any time during the period of my placement. I understand that the City of San Mateo is an Equal Opportunity Employer and this application is public.
Certified/Agreed
2025-04-24
Submitted By Date
8 of 48
CITY OF SAN MATEO
BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS APPLICATION
Park and Recreation Commission
Commissioner
REQUIREMENTS:
• Resident and a registered voter of the City of San Mateo • Meeting attendance required
• If appointed, must attend a commissioner orientation session & any training offered
BACKGROUND INFORMATION
Name: cecilia teng
Email:
Primary
Phone:
Address: San Mateo
Street City Zip Code
San Mateo resident
since: june 2022 I am a registered voter in City of San Mateo: Yes Board or Commission interested in serving on (check all that apply):
Did you attend a meeting for this Board or
Commission?: No
QUALIFICATIONS
My qualifications for serving on this board/commission are as follows: Please see attachment. Not sure which district that I am in, did the search but show no results.
I want to serve on this board/commission because: Please see attachement Please list any other background information (business, education, community involvement) which might be useful in considering your appointment and attach a resume: Please see attachment Graduate of:null Please see attachment
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Please mail or submit this application to the San Mateo City Clerk’s Office:
City Clerk's Office, 330 W. 20th Avenue, San Mateo, CA 94403, (650) 522-7040, [email protected]
By checking the box below, I hereby certify that all statements made in this application are true and I authorize investigation of all matters contained in the application. I acknowledge that any false statements or misrepresentation on this application will be cause for refusal of placement or immediate dismissal at any time during the period of my placement. I understand that the City of San Mateo is an Equal Opportunity Employer and this application is public.
Certified/Agreed
2025-04-28
Submitted By Date
10 of 48
Cecilia Teng
Candidate for San Mateo Parks and Recreation Commission I. Bringing Experience, Education, and Passion to Our Community:
My name is Cecilia Teng, and I’ve proudly called San Mateo home since moving here from New York in June 2022. I bring with me a lifetime of experience in education, community service, and innovation.
II. Academic and Professional Background
• B.A. in Mathematics – Saint Mary University, Missouri • M.A. in Theoretical Mathematics – Creighton University, Nebraska • Advanced Ph.D. level studies in Higher Education and Adminstration – New York University
• Former Computer Engineer – Westinghouse Research, Pittsburgh, PA • Mathematics Professor – New York Institute of Technology, Long Island
• First Female Director of International Education – NYIT, overseeing 1,300+ students, managed academic programming, housing,and extracurricular activities which designed to enrich the students experiences
• Founder & Director – K–12 Private School (17 years), Long Island, New York. Helped develop both the academic curriculum and enrichment programs for students aged 4-17, and remained deeply involved in the school’s operations through out seventeen years III. Creative & Personal Pursuits
• Published Author of 3 fiction books (4th completed)
• Gardening and photography enthusiast
• Proud grandmother of six wonderful grandchildren
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IV. Community Contributions in San Mateo
• Resident leader at The Stratford – Created open-space garden and greenhouse café, and developed workshops to enriched residents daily activities
• Volunteer Educator at San Mateo Arboretum – Developed 5 academic programs reaching 300+ students annually
• Founder of Senior Workshop Program – Supporting creativity, memory skills, and motor function in older adults
• Youth Education Program on Native Plants and dog friendly Garden– Guiding students (ages 10-11) to design and build drought-tolerant gardens. First stage will be completed on May 7th, 2025 V. My Vision
The Parks and Recreation Commission is a vital platform to further my passion for education, creativity, and community engagement. I am committed to serving residents of all ages—from young learners to seniors— through innovative, inclusive programs that enrich our city and connect us all.
San Mateo has given me a new home, and I’m eager to give back to the country that has given me so many opportunities for both professional success and personal growth. Together, we can create a better, more vibrant future for the next generation.
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CITY OF SAN MATEO
BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS APPLICATION
Park and Recreation Commission
Commissioner
REQUIREMENTS:
• Resident and a registered voter of the City of San Mateo • Meeting attendance required
• If appointed, must attend a commissioner orientation session & any training offered
BACKGROUND INFORMATION
Name: Dianne Whitaker
Email: [email protected] Primary Phone: (650) 343-4340 Address: 741 E Santa Inez Avenue San Mateo 94401-1860
Street City Zip Code
San Mateo resident since: 1993 I am a registered voter in City of San Mateo: Yes Board or Commission interested in serving on (check all that apply):
Did you attend a meeting for this Board or
Commission?: Yes
QUALIFICATIONS
My qualifications for serving on this board/commission are as follows: I am a 32 year resident of the City of San Mateo and have worked in San Mateo for over 36 years. I am an active member of the Home Association of North Central San Mateo (HANCSM) and currently sit on the Board of Directors. I am the "arts organization" representative on the San Mateo Civic Arts Committee.
I want to serve on this board/commission because: With the recent voter-approved passage of Measure T, and the City Council's adoption of Strive San Mateo General Plan 2040, there will be increased pressure on San Mateo's resources, including our parks and recreational offerings. As building heights and densities increase, residents and workers will look for activities outside the home and workplace to de-stress. The San Mateo Parks and Recreation Department offers a vast number of opportunities to de-stress, relax, and enjoy numerous activities, including exercise, sports, creative outlets such as dance, arts and crafts, and youth and adult learning: all activities that are vital to healthy living. I am excited about the possibility of being selected to serve on San Mateo's Parks and Recreation Commission! Thank You.
Please list any other background information (business, education, community involvement) which might be useful in considering your appointment and attach a resume: California licensed Architect since 1997 1977 Graduate of the University of California at Berkeley, College of Environmental Design Board Member of HIP Housing Development Corporation since 2001 Board Member of Home Association of North Central San Mateo since 1999 Board Member of City Arts of San Mateo
Graduate of:
By checking the box below, I hereby certify that all statements made in this application are true and I authorize investigation of all matters contained in the application. I acknowledge that any false statements or misrepresentation on this application will be cause for refusal of placement or immediate dismissal
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Please mail or submit this application to the San Mateo City Clerk’s Office:
City Clerk's Office, 330 W. 20th Avenue, San Mateo, CA 94403, (650) 522-7040, [email protected]
at any time during the period of my placement. I understand that the City of San Mateo is an Equal Opportunity Employer and this application is public.
Certified/Agreed
2025-05-02
Submitted By Date
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DIANNE R. WHITAKER, AIA
DIANNE WHITAKER ARCHITECT 741 EAST SANTA INEZ AVENUE TELEPHONE: 650-342-7237 SAN MATEO, CALIFORNIA [email protected] 94401- 1860
EDUCATION
1977 Bachelor of Arts with a Major in Architecture, College of Environmental Design, University of California at Berkeley. Graduated with Honors.
REGISTRATION
Licensed Architect in the State of California.
EMPLOYMENT
June 1999 to DIANNE WHITAKER ARCHITECT
Present San Mateo, California
Principal/Owner
July 1989 to SINCLAIR ASSOCIATES INC.
May 1999 San Mateo, California
Architect, Senior Project Manager
May 1989 to CROSBY YANDELL ARCHITECTS
July 1989 San Francisco, California
Senior Drafter
September 1985 to GROUP 4/ARCHITECTURE, RESEARCH AND PLANNING, INC.
April 1989 South San Francisco, California
Intermediate Drafter
March 1985 to WILLIAM MEYER & COMPANY Architects: Planners: Developers May 1985 San Francisco, California
Junior Drafter
February 1978 to BUILDING SYSTEMS DEVELOPMENT, INC. Architecture/Research March 1985 San Mateo and San Francisco, California
Junior Drafter, Researcher, Graphic Designer
EXPERIENCE
DESIGN PROJECTS: Provide full range of architectural services, including site investigations, programming, schematic design, design development, study models, presentation drawings, presentation models, construction documents, cost estimating, specifications and construction contract administration . Single - family and multi- family residential, commercial storefronts and tenant improvements, restaurants, senior centers, municipal buildings and transportation facilities of Type I and Type V construction.
BUILDING FORENSICS: Conduct ed surface and destructive field investigations, documented observed conditions and prepared subsequent reports. As an integral part of the forensic investigations, preformed extensive research of building materials & products, and applicable building code requirements from the present code edition back to the 1973 edition. Provided expert witness testimony when requested by attorneys.
FIELD RECONNAISSANCE: Site visits following several California and Mexico west coast earthquakes: damage inspection, interviews, photographs and written summary documentation.
REPORTS: Participation in site visits, extensive archival research and documentation, occupant -use interviews, specifications and construction documents analysis, inked graphics, writing, editing, proofreading, layout planning and production paste -up, and liaison with printers. Master plans, architectural books, research reports and non-profit organization newsletters.
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March 17, 2021
DIANNE R. WHITAKER, AIA
Page Two
PROFESSIONAL ACTIVITIES
2008-2010 Director, The American Institute of Architects, California Council. Member since 1983. 2004 President, The American Institute of Architects, San Mateo County Chapter. Member since 1983.
Chair, City of San Mateo Planning Commission. Member 2010 - 2019.
San Mateo County Coastside Design Review Committee. Member 2008 - 2017.
Supplemental Exam Commissioner, California Architects Board. 2003 - 2011.
Treasurer, City Arts of San Mateo. [2002 President, 2005 & 2006 Co-President] Member since 1996.
Member, City of San Mateo Civic Arts Committee. Member since 2008.
City of San Mateo Housing Rehabilitation Loan Committee. 2005 - 2012.
Secretary, HIP Housing Development Corporation. Member since 2002.
Vice President, Home Association of North Central San Mateo (HANCSM). Member since 1995.
Member, California Preservation Foundation.
Member, Cal Alumni, University of California at Berkeley.
Member, College of Environmental Design (CED) Alumni, University of California at Berkeley.
REFERENCES
Jack Matthews, AIA, Principal: John Matthews Architect s, AIA; 335-A East Fourth Avenue; San Mateo, California; 94401. (650) 340-1107.
Noemi K. Avram, AIA, Principal : Gumbinger Avram Architects; 318 South ‘B’ Street ; San Mateo, California; 94401. (650) 579-0995.
Nicki Dennis Stephens , Executive Vice President; American Institute of Architects, California Council; 1931 ‘H’ Street, Sacramento, California; 95811. (916) 448-9082.
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CITY OF SAN MATEO
BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS APPLICATION
Park and Recreation Commission
Commissioner
REQUIREMENTS:
• Resident and a registered voter of the City of San Mateo • Meeting attendance required
• If appointed, must attend a commissioner orientation session & any training offered
BACKGROUND INFORMATION
Name: Paul Costello
Email:
Primary
Phone:
Address: San Mateo
Street City Zip Code
San Mateo resident
since: 2004 I am a registered voter in City of San Mateo: Yes Board or Commission interested in serving on (check all that apply):
Did you attend a meeting for this Board or
Commission?: No
QUALIFICATIONS
My qualifications for serving on this board/commission are as follows: Have a career in government at the federal, state and local level. Would like to use my knowledge and skills for this important and vital commission for the community, I utilize Central Park for recreation and activities.
I want to serve on this board/commission because: I believe in the importance and value of public parks and recreation activities for all citizens of the city. Would like to work with others to ensure the parks and recreation activities remain valuable and highly utilized by the city’s citizens.
Please list any other background information (business, education, community involvement) which might be useful in considering your appointment and attach a resume: Have worked in the federal, state and local governments in the U.S. A White House press spokesman, a press secretary to a Governor, and the communications chief for the District of Columbia. Came to CA in 2004 when recruited to be the chief spokesman for the Stanford School of Medicine. I retired and am now adjunct faculty in the Department of Medicine. Have had a multifaceted career in government, politics and the private sector.
Graduate of:
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Please mail or submit this application to the San Mateo City Clerk’s Office:
City Clerk's Office, 330 W. 20th Avenue, San Mateo, CA 94403, (650) 522-7040, [email protected]
By checking the box below, I hereby certify that all statements made in this application are true and I authorize investigation of all matters contained in the application. I acknowledge that any false statements or misrepresentation on this application will be cause for refusal of placement or immediate dismissal at any time during the period of my placement. I understand that the City of San Mateo is an Equal Opportunity Employer and this application is public.
Certified/Agreed
2025-04-19
Submitted By Date
18 of 48
CITY OF SAN MATEO
BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS APPLICATION
Park and Recreation Commission
Commissioner
REQUIREMENTS:
• Resident and a registered voter of the City of San Mateo • Meeting attendance required
• If appointed, must attend a commissioner orientation session & any training offered
BACKGROUND INFORMATION
Name: Sarah Fields
Email:
Primary
Phone:
Address: San Mateo
Street City Zip Code
San Mateo resident
since: 2016 I am a registered voter in City of San Mateo: Yes Board or Commission interested in serving on (check all that apply):
Did you attend a meeting for this Board or
Commission?: Yes
QUALIFICATIONS
My qualifications for serving on this board/commission are as follows: I have served on this commission since 2021, including being selected as chair person twice during that period of time. I am a consistent member of this commission, with a solid attendance record and as chair, I run meetings with a fair and diplomatic demeanor. I have a background working in state and local government, along with a graduate education in urban planning, all of which assist me in providing thoughtful oversight and review for proposals that come before this commission.
I want to serve on this board/commission because: I have a passion for the City of San Mateo's parks and recreation activities and sites. Our parks are the jewels not only of our city but of the whole of the peninsula. While our resources are limited and most of our sites were built decades ago, the need to provide thoughtful feedback and prioritizing needs and community is very important. Additionally, I have served as the only renter on this commission, while San Mateo is nearly equally divided between homeowners and renters, commissioners are disproportionally homeowners. I strive to listen to a variety of points of view and perspectives as a commissioner and hope to be able to continue.
Please list any other background information (business, education, community involvement) which might be useful in considering your appointment and attach a resume: In addition to a Master of Urban Planning degree, work in state and local government, I currently work for LifeMoves as the Director of Community Engagement and Public Affairs. This role keeps me connected to local social services work and regional public partnerships. I also serve on the board of directors for the Peninsula Multifaith Coalition, an organization of over two dozen congregations in the area coming together for service projects and learning.
Graduate of:San Mateo Area Chamber of Commerce Leadership Program Chamber SMC Leadership 2021
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Please mail or submit this application to the San Mateo City Clerk’s Office:
City Clerk's Office, 330 W. 20th Avenue, San Mateo, CA 94403, (650) 522-7040, [email protected]
By checking the box below, I hereby certify that all statements made in this application are true and I authorize investigation of all matters contained in the application. I acknowledge that any false statements or misrepresentation on this application will be cause for refusal of placement or immediate dismissal at any time during the period of my placement. I understand that the City of San Mateo is an Equal Opportunity Employer and this application is public.
Certified/Agreed
2025-04-28
Submitted By Date
20 of 48
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related to water, wastewater, and power
• Liaised with lobbying group, trade associations, and other relevant organizations Account Director December 2019 – December 2020 Singer Associates, Inc. – San Francisco, CA
Singer is a leading Bay Area firm specializing in public relations, issues management, public affairs, and crisis communications. • Managed and guided the administration of community engagement and subsequent ballot measure campaigns, with a focus on land use and development
• Formulated client narratives, strategies, materials, and media • Supervised staff in service of events, earned media, digital advertising, and campaign compliance Public Affairs Manager September 2016 – December 2019 Jewish Community Relations Council [JCRC] – San Francisco, CA JCRC brings together the Jewish community and allies to counter antisemitism, advance social justice, strengthen civic engagement, and ensure a thoughtful, collective response to critical issues.
• Recruited, organized, prepared, and mobilized grassroots activists and other community members to advance organizational goals and objectives
• Built and maintained strong professional and personal connections with influential public and elected officials, civic, education, faith, and cultural leaders through involvement in interethnic, interfaith, civic and single issue coalitions and organizations
Senior Field Representative
April 2015 – August 2016
California State Senate, 39 th District – San Diego, CA The Senate is the upper house of the California Legislature, with 40 members. While serving approximately 1 million constituents, a District Office serves as a liaison between the Senator, state agencies, and the broader community while supporting the elected member’s policy agenda. • Developed proficiency in policy areas, including healthcare, aging, transit, & housing • Acted as a local legislative subject maĴer expert
• Responded to constituent legislative inquiries and challenges with state agencies • Assisted with press, communications planning and implementation • Organized community forums and service activities with robust public outreach AmeriCorps VISTA for Community Development August 2014 – April 2015 Habitat for Humanity – San Diego, CA
The local San Diego affiliate of Habitat for Humanity brings people together to build homes, communities and hope through the new construction and rehabilitation of homes for individuals and families, in addition to general services, SDHFH also offers unique programs for seniors and veterans. • Identified and researched community groups for volunteer recruitment and organizational partnerships • Managed communication and outreach systems for securing community sponsorships , to build and deepen
relationships with volunteer/service organizations and faith-based organizations • Represented the organization publicly to community groups, city councils, and other public boards ____________________________________________________________________________________
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CITY OF SAN MATEO
BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS APPLICATION
Park and Recreation Commission
Commissioner
REQUIREMENTS:
• Resident and a registered voter of the City of San Mateo • Meeting attendance required
• If appointed, must attend a commissioner orientation session & any training offered
BACKGROUND INFORMATION
Name: Sabrina Ocampo
Email:
Primary
Phone:
Address: San Mateo
Street City Zip Code
San Mateo resident
since: 1979 I am a registered voter in City of San Mateo: Yes Board or Commission interested in serving on (check all that apply):
Did you attend a meeting for this Board or
Commission?: Yes
QUALIFICATIONS
My qualifications for serving on this board/commission are as follows: As a current Parks and Recreation Commissioner for the City of San Mateo, I have firsthand experience working on initiatives that enhance our parks, recreational programs, and community spaces. My role has allowed me to collaborate with city officials, staff, and residents to ensure our parks and facilities serve the diverse needs of our community. Beyond my commission work, I have been the community lead for *Team Up to Clean Up* since 2020 (during the pandemic), organizing monthly cleanups on the third Saturday of each month. This initiative has not only helped keep our parks and public spaces clean but has also fostered civic engagement and community pride. My deep-rooted involvement in San Mateo, combined with my commitment to improving public spaces and programs, makes me well-qualified for a full-term position.
I want to serve on this board/commission because: I want to continue serving on the Parks and Recreation Commission because I deeply believe that well-maintained parks, vibrant recreational programs, and accessible green spaces are essential to building a thriving community. San Mateo has been my home for many years, and I have seen firsthand how our parks bring people together, promote health and wellness, and create a sense of belonging. Through my work on the commission and my leadership with *Team Up to Clean Up*, I have been actively involved in enhancing our public spaces and fostering community engagement. I want to continue this work, ensuring that our parks and recreation programs evolve to meet the needs of all residents - children, families, seniors, and future generations. Serving in this role allows me to contribute in a meaningful way, advocate for improvements, and help shape the future of our city’s recreational resources.
Please list any other background information (business, education, community involvement) which might be useful in considering your appointment and attach a resume: As a San Mateo native, I have always been deeply involved in community service and local initiatives that enhance our city. In addition to serving as a current Parks and Recreation Commissioner, I have been the community lead for *Team Up to Clean Up* since 2020, organizing monthly cleanups to keep our public spaces beautiful and litter-free. This initiative has fostered civic engagement and strengthened community pride across San Mateo. Professionally, I have extensive experience in strategic account management and business development, currently serving as the Director of Strategic Accounts at Firework. My background in leadership, collaboration, and process improvement has equipped me with the skills to work effectively with diverse stakeholders, advocate for community needs, and drive impactful projects. My passion for community engagement, combined with my professional expertise and lifelong connection to San Mateo, makes me eager to continue serving in a role that enhances the parks, programs, and spaces that bring our residents together. My LinkedIn profile, which includes recommendations from past colleagues and customers: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sabrinaocampo/ Graduate of:City Services Academy 2023
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Please mail or submit this application to the San Mateo City Clerk’s Office:
City Clerk's Office, 330 W. 20th Avenue, San Mateo, CA 94403, (650) 522-7040, [email protected]
By checking the box below, I hereby certify that all statements made in this application are true and I authorize investigation of all matters contained in the application. I acknowledge that any false statements or misrepresentation on this application will be cause for refusal of placement or immediate dismissal at any time during the period of my placement. I understand that the City of San Mateo is an Equal Opportunity Employer and this application is public.
Certified/Agreed
2025-03-29
Submitted By Date
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CITY OF SAN MATEO
BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS APPLICATION
Park and Recreation Commission
Commissioner
REQUIREMENTS:
• Resident and a registered voter of the City of San Mateo • Meeting attendance required
• If appointed, must attend a commissioner orientation session & any training offered
BACKGROUND INFORMATION
Name: stephen mayer
Email:
Primary
Phone:
Address: san mateo
Street City Zip Code
San Mateo resident
since: 1996 I am a registered voter in City of San Mateo: Yes Board or Commission interested in serving on (check all that apply):
Did you attend a meeting for this Board or
Commission?: No
QUALIFICATIONS
My qualifications for serving on this board/commission are as follows: Through out younger life i have coached youth sports. When i was in college i was a coach for Pop Warner football in San Francisco. When i had my own kids, i coached both my son and my daughters in soccer, softball, basketball and little league baseball. As an adult i played on several softball leagues. As my parents and in-laws aged, i saw them participate in many of the senior senior activities offered where they lived. Now that i am 70 years ago, I find myself interested in some of these senior activities offering recreation, I have always enjoyed the outdoors and have gone on 70 backpack trips over the years and lots of camping trips. I am very active have competed in many triathlons including an ironman when i turned 60 as well as many charity runs and bike rides. I firmly believe that our parks and outdoor places are needed for community enjoyment with strong fiscal and strategic oversite. As a 45 year CPA who has owned and managed accounting firms and several other businesses, i have the tools needed for long term vision and oversight. i have also been an active volunteer in many schools, chmabers and other non profits serving the community. I am also a graduate and a former board member of teh SF Chambers leadership program.
I want to serve on this board/commission because: Some of the answer is listed in my qualifications in the first question.
In a nutshell i have alwasy enjoyed the ourdoors and i want to make sure San Mateo keeps it's open space, fields and rec centers available for people of all ages. I also started the Five Bucket foundation that teached financial literacy. Over the last 5 years we have taugh about 4000 young adults about financial literacy and i think it could be a program that would fit well inot the parks and rec system.
Please list any other background information (business, education, community involvement) which might be useful in considering your appointment and attach a resume: Please see my resume that lists my business experience and business ownership. Currently i either own or co-own 6 businesses, serve on several non profits and started the Five Bucket Foundation that teaches Financial literacy.
Graduate of:
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Please mail or submit this application to the San Mateo City Clerk’s Office:
City Clerk's Office, 330 W. 20th Avenue, San Mateo, CA 94403, (650) 522-7040, [email protected]
By checking the box below, I hereby certify that all statements made in this application are true and I authorize investigation of all matters contained in the application. I acknowledge that any false statements or misrepresentation on this application will be cause for refusal of placement or immediate dismissal at any time during the period of my placement. I understand that the City of San Mateo is an Equal Opportunity Employer and this application is public.
Certified/Agreed
2025-05-02
Submitted By Date
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Stephen D. Mayer
Mr. Mayer grew up in San Francisco, where he attended Riordan High School and then went to U.C. Berkeley. Mr. Mayer lives in San Mateo with his wife, Patty, to whom he has been married for over 32 years, together they have three children. At Christmas he puts up about 50,000 Christmas lights for the neighborhood to enjoy. He is man of many traditions, including over 50 consecutive years of backpacking with his group of friends. At 60 he did an Ironman and at 70 a half ironman.
Education: Under graduate at UC Berkeley in Business 1976 Master at UC Berkeley in Finance 1981
Work Experience: 10 years at Coopers and Lybrand
25 years at BPM – founder and CEO
13 years at SD Maye
r & Associates
Author of the
following books:
“Toughest guy I ever knew”, 15 short stories on life, philosophy and humor “Five Buckets, Four Shovels, A Beach and a Map- A Guide to Financial Security”- A simple guide to Financial Planning
“Adulting 101-A Guide to Personal Finance”, Financial planning book aimed at youth
Co-author of “Strictly Business: Planning Strategies for Privately Owned Businesses” A guide to starting, owning, growing and selling a business
Volunteer: Coached Pop Warner football, basketball, softball, baseball, soccer Boy Scouts, Guest instructor at Riordan high school, Cal society of CPAs, Leadership San Francisco
Non Profits: Five Bucket Foundation- Teaching Financial literacy, Founder Riordan High School
SF Chamber of Commerce
Bay Area Council
Hillsborough Little League
St Francis Hospital Foundation
Cystic fibrosis foundation
San Mateo Park Homeowners
Business:
Scotts Seafood in San Jose- restaurants
Café De La Press, SF- restaurant
Superfine kitchens- corporate catering
Co-founder of Presidio Bank- Financial Institute
Books Inc. - chain of book store
Armus -Sas software
BPM- Full Service Accounting, Tax, Consulting and Wealth Management S D Mayer & Associates - Full Service Accounting, Tax, Consulting and WM
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Commissioner Acknowledgement
To the Youth Commissioner: Being appointed by the City Council comes with certain responsibilities. This acknowledgement, which we ask you to sign, outlines some of them. x I am expected to attend all scheduled meetings to the greatest degree possible. x I will contact my Commission's liaison ahead of time if I know I will be absent. x I may be administered an Oath of OƯice by the City Clerk’s OƯice in which I will swear to uphold and defend the Constitution.
x I will receive an agenda and meeting packet (containing staƯ reports and/or other background materials) in advance of the meeting, which I am expected to review prior to the meeting.
x My name will appear on a public list (including posting to the City’s website). ____________________ ____
Date Signature
_____ ___________________
Print Name
5/2/25
Ellie
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