CITY COUNCIL AGENDA
January 6, 2025
WE PROVIDE EFFICIENT DELIVERY OF QUALITY PUBLIC SERVICES THAT ARE
ESSENTIAL TO THOSE WHO LIVE AND WORK IN SAN RAMON
Mark Armstrong Mayor
Robert Jweinat, Councilmember • Marisol Rubio, Councilmember • Sridhar Verose, Councilmember Council Chamber
7000 Bollinger Canyon Road
SPECIAL MEETING – 5:00 PM
Agenda Questions: Please contact the City Clerk (925) 973-2539 or [email protected] Please refer to the end of the agenda to review options for participation in the meeting.
Unless stated otherwise on the agenda, every item on the agenda is exempt from CEQA Guidelines Sections 15060(c), 15061(b)(3), 15273, 15378, 15301, 15323 and/or Public Resources Code Section 21065.
TELECONFERENCING LOCATION
Councilmember Sridhar Verose
Street: 13-9 P&T Colony
Hyderabad, Telangana, India
Pin Code: 500060
1. CALL TO ORDER/ROLL CALL
2. COUNCIL BUSINESS
2.1 City Council District 2 Appointment: Selection of Applicants to Formal Interview
3. ADJOURNMENT
I hereby certify the agenda was posted 24 hours before the noted meeting. This agenda is posted in accordance with Government Code Section 54954.2(a).
Dated: January 3, 2025
2 City Council Meeting – January 6, 2025
HOW TO VIEW OR PARTICIPATE IN THE MEETING:
The public is invited to participate in the meeting using any of the following methods:
IN-PERSON
Members of the public can provide in-person comments at the meeting. To make a request for disability-related accommodation to participate in the meeting, please contact the City Clerk’s Office 24 hours in advance of the meeting.
WRITTEN COMMUNICATION BY EMAIL
Public comments may be submitted via e-mail to [email protected]. Any public comments received up until two (2) hours prior to the scheduled start time of the meeting will be distributed to the City Council via e-mail, provided at the meeting in the red binder, and posted online at https://www.sanramon.ca.gov/public_comment.
Written comments received after the cut-off time will be provided to the City Council the day following the meeting.
Please include “Public Comment” in the subject line. In the body of the email please include your name and the item you wish to comment on. Written public comment will not be read aloud during the meeting.
TO VIEW OR LISTEN ONLY
As a courtesy and technology permitting, the public will have the opportunity to view the meeting via one-way feed by the options below. However, the City cannot guarantee that the public’s remote access to any meeting will be uninterrupted, and technical difficulties may occur from time to time. In those instances, so long as the public may still attend the meeting in person, the meeting will continue. Members of the public desiring to provide comments as a part of the meeting are encouraged to either submit written comments prior to the meeting or to attend the meeting in person.
a. Zoom: https://cityofsanramon.zoom.us/j/98616472875
Webinar ID: 986 1647 2875
Zoom Phone Numbers: +1 (669) 900-6833
b. The City’s YouTube Channel: www.sanramon.ca.gov/YouTube
ATTENDEE CONDUCT
There will be zero tolerance for any person addressing the Council making profane, offensive and disruptive remarks, or engaging in loud, boisterous, or other disorderly conduct, that disrupts the orderly conduct of the public meeting.
Specifically, it is important for all speakers to adhere to the following guidelines for participation in this meeting:
a. No profanity or obscenity.
b. Refrain from personal threats or attacks.
c. Refrain from hateful epithets and demeaning language based on any person’s race, religion, sexual orientation, ethnicity, gender, or disability.
d. Respect all people that are present or watching.
At the discretion of the Mayor, a speaker may forfeit speaking time for any of the following reasons:
a. Exceeding the allotted time to speak;
b. Yelling, screaming, or other behavior that renders this Council unable to continue the meeting; c. Excessive profanity or slander;
d. Specific threats or “fighting words” that incite violence; or e. Speech that is outside the subject matter jurisdiction of the Council or the specific agenda item in which you are speaking.
While the City of San Ramon ensures the First Amendment rights of its citizens, we do not accept nor endorse any offensive or hateful comments made during our meetings. The City of San Ramon celebrates the diversity of our community, and we strive to be a welcoming and open community for all.
CITY COUNCIL STAFF REPORT
DATE: January 6, 2025
TO: City Council/City Manager
FROM: Christina Franco, City Clerk
By: Christina Franco, City Clerk
SUBJECT: City Council District 2 Appointment - Selection of Applicants to Formal Interview
RECOMMENDED ACTION
Staff recommends that the City Council review the applications and select up to two (2) applicants each for a maximum of eight (8) total applicants to be invited to a formal interview of the City Council on Friday, January 10, 2025.
BACKGROUND/DISCUSSION
At the December 11, 2024, special meeting of the City Council, the council elected to appoint a resident from District 2 to fill the current vacancy. The City Clerk listed the vacancy on the City’s website and social media accounts soliciting applications. The application was made available to interested parties on December 12, 2024. The City received a total of 21 applications by the January 3, 2025, deadline, and 16 of the applicants met the requirements to serve on the City Council, District 2. The names of the qualified applicants are listed below, and their candidate statements are attached.
(Listed in alphabetical order, by last name)
• Adler, Richard
• Bhardwaj, Manoj
• Carrion, Audra
• Carrion, Isabelle
• Cates, Justin
• Helgren, Erik
• Kathrani, Chirag
• Korpi, Diana
• Levy, Kyle
• Longyear, Mary Jo
• Melendres, Gabe
• Sachs, Harry
2.1 Packet Pg. 4
• Saini, Rajneesh
• Sull, Baljit
• Uhri Chu, Tiffany
• Virdee, Veena
Five applicants did not meet the minimum qualifications to hold office in the City of San Ramon District 2 and are not eligible to be considered by the City Council.
Per the City Council’s motion at its December 11, 2024 special meeting, the Council will consider those applicants who submitted complete applications and who met the minimum qualifications and recommend up to two applicants each for a maximum of 8 total applicants to be interviewed by the City Council.
FISCAL ANALYSIS
If the Council makes a timely appointment, there will be no cost to the City other than staff time.
STEPS FOLLOWING APPROVAL
Staff will notify the selected applicants of their selection for an interview by the City Council, to be held on Friday, January 10, 2025.
ATTACHMENT
City Council Appointment Applications
2.1 Packet Pg. 5
CITY COUNCIL APPLICATION
Applicant: Richard Adler
Candidate Statement:
I believe that my background and experience has prepared me to serve on the San Ramon City Council. I work well with others to get goals done. I strongly believe in public service and giving back to my community. The following is a partial list of my activities:
1) President, Dougherty Valley San Ramon Rotary Club 2024/25. My focus is on community service and mental health.
2) Member of the Yes on Measure N committee, 2024.
3) Served as chair of the San Ramon Senior Advisory Committee in 2023. I was reappointed to the committee in 2024. I presented our Annual Report to the City Council and the Parks and Community Services Committee.
4) Member San Ramon Valley Mental Health Advisory, 2024 to present. 5) Completed Leadership San Ramon Valley, Class of 2023. 6) Completed Citizens Planning Academy 2021.
7) Completed Government 101, Class of 2020
8) Completed Citizens Police Academy 2019.
9) VP Board of Directors of Greystone Ranch HOA, 2020 to present. 10) Intern, Congressman Pete McCloskey.
11) Student Rep. to the UC Berkeley Faculty Senate.
12)Student Body President, Awalt High School, Mountain View, CA. 12) American Field Service High School Exchange Student to Navajo Reservation in Many Farms Arizona.
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Packet Pg. 6
Attachment: City Council Appointment Applications (4532 : City Council Appointment- Selection of Applicants to Formal Interview)
CITY COUNCIL APPLICATION
Applicant: Manoj Bhardwaj
Candidate Statement:
As a productive member of the society, I take pride in the community I live in and I would like to continue to serve it. Professionally I have been a leader and mentor for over 20 years where I have developed strong empathy, leadership chops, and strong communication and problem solving skills. My strength is to look at a problem from all angles and am decisive in taking action. I also serve on the school site committee at my son's school as Assistant Chairperson. I have been an active volunteer for various causes. Although I have never held a position in public office, I humbly request a chance to be considered based on my ability to connect with people, good decision making abilities, and a strong desire to serve and advance my community.
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Attachment: City Council Appointment Applications (4532 : City Council Appointment- Selection of Applicants to Formal Interview)
CITY COUNCIL APPLICATION
Applicant: Audra Carrion
Candidate Statement:
My name is Audra Carrion. I have been a resident of the City of San Ramon since I was three years old. I attended elementary through high school in San Ramon and raised my family here.
The diversity here in San Ramon is unmatched compared to our neighboring cities. I believe I am qualified to sit on the city council based on my experience as a citizen in this community for the last 41 years. I sat on the Housing Authority Committee for 4 years with the City of San Ramon. I have held many positions within the local schools PTSA, Ed Fund, as well as coached softball soccer and basketball. I am a small business owner myself in San Ramon, and community builder through my small online platform called Carry On Community (formerly SanRamoms) where we spread information on happenings in San Ramon to encourage more community involvement. I would love to be part of building and fostering more community in our city. The first step would be a seat on City Council.
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Packet Pg. 8
Attachment: City Council Appointment Applications (4532 : City Council Appointment- Selection of Applicants to Formal Interview)
CITY COUNCIL APPLICATION
Applicant: Isabelle Carrion
Candidate Statement:
As a young woman who has been interested in politics since I was 8, I have always wanted to start my political career in the city I grew up in. I have deepened my knowledge of government and policy through clubs and organizations in high school like JSA and Amnesty International, and with my studies as a Linguistics major at San Francisco State University. I know this city well and I believe a young, bright, and engaging presence is what we need.
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Packet Pg. 9
Attachment: City Council Appointment Applications (4532 : City Council Appointment- Selection of Applicants to Formal Interview)
CITY COUNCIL APPLICATION
Applicant: Justin Cates
Candidate Statement:
San Ramon City Council,
My name is Justin Cates and I would be honored for your consideration in the selection process for Councils District 2 appointment. As a resident of San Ramon for the last eight years, I have been fortunate to enjoy the quality of life San Ramon has to offer that is second to none in the great state of California. As a father of three young children, my wife and I made the decision to buy our home in San Ramon based off one primary factor, schools. The safe community, vast number of beautiful parks, and top-rated schools within the SRVUSD are what attracts families from all over the Bay Area to establish roots here in San Ramon.
Public Safety and ensuring our first responders have the resources they need to succeed in their roles is of great importance to our community. Sustainable growth not just in housing options, but current school infrastructure and future schools that are able to accommodate the growing population.
I am passionate about developing programs that encourage community engagement and volunteerism. I am an elected member of the Bollinger Canyon Little League Board of Directors, where I work with the city of San Ramon’s Parks and Recreation department to schedule the hundreds of games throughout Spring, Summer and Fall seasons for our now 700+ children involved in youth baseball in San Ramon.
My professional background is in restaurant management and executive development. After attending California State University, Fullerton where I studied Political Science and Government, I began my career in Northern California. Overseeing restaurants throughout the Bay Area, developing strong teams, and working with key stakeholders through various markets has been a fulfilling and enjoyable experience. In my current role as Vice President of Operations I lead teams in California, Georgia, Texas, Illinois and Florida, with over 3,000 team members and sales >$100M.
My business acumen and strategic approach to team development and collaboration can make a difference. The decisions facing San Ramon in the coming years will impact our community for decades. With Councils ability to engage with the community, solicit feedback from industry professionals, access to abundant resources for information, the core attribute needed most is collaboration. Effective communication, a collaborative approach that engages our community, and decision making based on research and community feedback is how we can succeed together.
Thank you for your consideration.
With gratitude,
Justin Cates
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Packet Pg. 10
Attachment: City Council Appointment Applications (4532 : City Council Appointment- Selection of Applicants to Formal Interview)
CITY COUNCIL APPLICATION
Applicant: Erik Helgren
Candidate Statement:
Having been born and raised in the San Francisco Bay Area, I am a vested member of the San Ramon community, having lived in District 2 for over 15 years.
As the current interim Associate Dean of he College of Science at California State University East Bay I have experience that I feel will suit me well as a San Ramon City Council member. In my duties as Associate Dean, I oversee numerous departments, and staff (including employees under collective bargaining units) with an operational budget of over $20 million. I manage day to day operations, e.g., leading the Safety Committee, work with EH&S and, coordinate Risk Management, and I also work with the Dean and Provost to support the development of an overall vision for the college. In my position, I have also worked closely with our university Facilities group to help design, coordinate the construction of and recently open a brand new Applied Science building. I have also been an active member of the San Ramon community, volunteering in my two sons schools (Walt Disney, Pine Valley and now Cal High), in San Ramon youth sports and as an assistant scoutmaster in troop 874. I hope to use my work experiences and my community connections to further serve the City of San Ramon during the remainder of this unexpired term on the City Council.
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Packet Pg. 11
Attachment: City Council Appointment Applications (4532 : City Council Appointment- Selection of Applicants to Formal Interview)
CITY COUNCIL APPLICATION
Applicant: Chirag Kathrani
Candidate Statement:
I am applying to represent District 2 on the San Ramon City Council because I believe the foundation of our democracy lies in active participation in the issues that shape our community. I am offering myself as a candidate so that, together, we can build a progressive, dynamic, and inclusive San Ramon.
Having lived here for over 13 years, I am deeply invested in our city’s future.
During my recent campaign for Mayor of San Ramon, I gained a deeper understanding of the city’s functioning. I spent countless hours analyzing city affairs, including reviewing meeting videos available on the City of San Ramon’s YouTube channel. This experience strengthened my belief that I can contribute significantly to our community, leveraging my expertise in building multiple businesses from scratch. My hands-on experience while running startup I was involved in planning, hiring, sales, technology, and operations has equipped me to tackle complex challenges.
Here are a few of my visions for the city:
1. Engaging Residents:
During my mayoral campaign, I connected with many residents and learned ways to engage them in the city’s functioning. I hope to amplify their voices and ensure they feel represented in decision-making processes.
2. Economic Policies:
I aim to create an environment that attracts young entrepreneurs and businesses by fostering an ecosystem where they can thrive affordably. This includes revitalizing our vast vacant office spaces. My track record includes helping launch several businesses, such as Biryani Junction, Amrutha Villa, and Amazing Logistics, as well as managing Enterprise Mobility Inc. and Mangalm LLC, which I currently operate from my office in Pleasanton.
3. Future Leadership:
I founded and run a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, Lead For Earth, where I mentor community members in leadership and entrepreneurship. My goal is to empower future entrepreneurs and leaders. This initiative was inspired by the youth of San Ramon, who actively worked in engaging community into multiple initiatives covered at Lead4earth.org.
My Family:
I moved to San Ramon in 2011, drawn by its excellent schools, and have lived here ever since.
My three children attend public schools. One of my children has special needs, which has taught me the importance of never taking anything for granted and addressing issues at their core to find effective solutions.
I am eager to bring my experience, vision, and commitment to the role of City Council Member and look forward to serving the City.
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Packet Pg. 12
Attachment: City Council Appointment Applications (4532 : City Council Appointment- Selection of Applicants to Formal Interview)
CITY COUNCIL APPLICATION
Applicant: Diana Korpi
Candidate Statement:
Dear Mayor & Councilmembers,
My name is Diana Korpi; submitting my application for the vacant District 2 council seat. Born in Pensacola Fl. at the Naval hospital, my father being a Unites States Marine Corps officer, as a youth I grew up & attended shool on several militray bases across the country. My upbringing instilled in me a respect for our veterans, police officers, EMT's and first responders. I attended CSU Ohio & Cal State. Major: Business Administration/Finance and Contract Law.
This upbringing set forth my driving ambition behind my career. A San Ramon resident homeowner and full time realtor for 33 years. Proud to call San Ramon home and welcome young families to our City. I am past Director of Relocation Services with Century 21. Being personally accredited with National Relocation Companies nationwide, including Chevron, BGRS, SIRVA & Cendant. I work with pride to represent families in our community; understanding residents and the need to protect our families, neighborhoods and schools as San Ramon grows.
I have extensive education with seniors earning my Senior Real Estate Specialist with the National Association of Realtors and an active participant with City Serve Tri-Valley Senior Services. Understanding the needs of our senior community, whether it is aging in place, downsizing or a need for assisted living. Representing families and assisting them in this stage of life is crucial to our community services.
I am a strong advocate of economic growth within our city and protecting the core infrastructures needed for a vibrant, thriving city, while encouraging smart and affordable housing for teachers and essential personnel. I completed the City Planning Academy program; sustainable development and public safety are core policies that I support.
Civic Support: Make A Wish; UCSF Benioff Children’s Hospital; Easter Seals, Tri-Valley Animal Rescue.
Passionate about Open Space and conservation, Serving on the San Ramon Open Space Advisory Committee for two terms.
Protecting our urban limits and working with non-profits; Save Mt. Diablo & the John Muir Land Trust are just two of the stewardships we have aligned with. Protecting our open space for the next generations is vital to the character and appeal of our City.
Transparency is key and essential to good government as is listening to our resident's concerns and needs. My dedication is unwavering and I look forward to making our city and community vibrant and safe for future generations.
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Packet Pg. 13
Attachment: City Council Appointment Applications (4532 : City Council Appointment- Selection of Applicants to Formal Interview)
CITY COUNCIL APPLICATION
Applicant: Kyle Levy
Candidate Statement:
Kyle Levy
My Objective: Bring new perspectives to City leadership and encourage resident engagement through my background in local government and volunteer service for the community.
Who I Am:
• A 25-year resident of San Ramon who graduated from Cal High. I currently serve as a member of the Parks and Community Services Commission; Board Secretary of the San Ramon Library Foundation; and as Chairperson for the San Ramon Valley Unified School District Facilities Oversight and Advisory Committee. I previously served on the Library Advisory Committee and I was the treasurer for the successful Measure N sales tax campaign. • I have completed the San Ramon Government 101 and Citizen’s Planning Academy classes, and graduated from Leadership San Ramon Valley. I hold a degree in Political Science, a law degree, and certificates in HR Management and Public Law and Policy. • My profession is administrative project management, working for an agency which provides sanitation services to an unincorporated community. I oversee the agency’s tax roll assessment process, generating $11 million in revenue. I also administer a $75,000 grant program which assists property owners. I have prepared staff reports and written and updated policies and procedures. I hold certifications from the California Water Environment Association and the American Society of Administrative Professionals.
My Priorities:
• Public Engagement: Engage in proactive outreach to residents to explain some of the external mandates which regulate many of the City’s powers. Promoting such understanding will increase civic participation and engagement in the City, and help to understand and better meet the needs of our diverse population, youth, and seniors.
• Fiscal Responsibility: The City has made many fiscally responsible decisions, but costs for goods and services continue to increase. We have a limited retail footprint to derive revenue from. The City needs to pursue grant funding opportunities to help support its innovative initiatives, such as environmentally sustainable practices or organized retail theft prevention efforts.
• Quality of Life: The City is undergoing significant growth which it must balance with the need to continue providing excellent facilities for recreation, while also maintaining San Ramon’s status as one of the nation’s safest communities to live and work in.
Why Me:
I have the experience with San Ramon’s institutions and local government decision-making to thoughtfully evaluate issues that impact San Ramon. I will work to meet the needs of our residents and sustain San Ramon’s high quality of life.
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Packet Pg. 14
Attachment: City Council Appointment Applications (4532 : City Council Appointment- Selection of Applicants to Formal Interview)
CITY COUNCIL APPLICATION
Applicant: Mary Jo Longyear
Candidate Statement:
I currently am a board member on the Bent Creek Parc HOA where I live. I have a degree in Broadcast Journalism and used to manage an employment agency while developing new business and new employees. Presently I work part-time as a new home sales assistant for JWilliams Staffing Services. I am looking to stay involved and connected to my community while being semi-retired.
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Packet Pg. 15
Attachment: City Council Appointment Applications (4532 : City Council Appointment- Selection of Applicants to Formal Interview)
CITY COUNCIL APPLICATION
Applicant: Gabe Melendres
Candidate Statement:
Gabriel Melendres
Candidate for San Ramon City Council, District 2
I am Gabriel Melendres, a proud Bay Area native and San Ramon resident since 2017. As your neighbor, I actively serve our community to promote its growth and success.
For over 20 years, I have guided individuals and families toward achieving the dream of homeownership through my work in real estate and community development. My experience with new home builders and as a REALTOR® has strengthened my ability to foster stability and growth in communities.
In 2015, my role as an online sales counselor at Toll Brothers gave me a unique connection and part in helping many people find a home that fit their needs right here in the newest developments in San Ramon and District 2.
My dedication to San Ramon extends beyond my profession. I served on my neighborhood HOA Board from 2018 to 2020, where I contributed to the Architectural Review Committee and organized our community's first National Night Out in 2018, earning a Certificate of Recognition from Assemblywoman Catherine B. Baker.
As a parent, I actively support San Ramon schools, volunteering in the classroom, library, and the outdoor education program at Bella Vista Elementary School. This year, I was honored to be appointed Treasurer of the Bella Vista Ed Fund, overseeing the finances that support school programs such as music, instructional aides, and classroom supplies.
San Ramon is my chosen home because it offers a safe and inclusive community, particularly for my autistic son. My wife, a small business owner, operates a private group practice here, further deepening our family's connection to this city.
My vision for San Ramon is rooted in fostering community inclusion, enhancing quality of life, and supporting sustainable growth. With my background in real estate, community service, and fiscal management, I am prepared to represent District 2 with integrity, dedication, and a deep understanding of our community’s needs.
Watching San Ramon grow into the vibrant community it is today fills me with pride. My work has allowed me to deeply understand our neighborhoods and the unique needs of our residents. I dedicate myself to building and sustaining a thriving San Ramon where every resident feels valued and supported.
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Packet Pg. 16
Attachment: City Council Appointment Applications (4532 : City Council Appointment- Selection of Applicants to Formal Interview)
CITY COUNCIL APPLICATION
Applicant: Harry Sachs
Candidate Statement:
Hello members of the city council, my name is Harry Sachs and I have lived in San Ramon since 1999. My wife Diana and I have raised our 3 children in south San Ramon and have enjoyed the many benefits of raising a family here. I have been a longtime Cub, Boy and Girl scout parent leader.
I am currently an 8th grade US History teacher in Fremont and have been teaching for over 28 years. I have a BA, Government and M. ED in Education Leadership.
I am submitting my name for appointment to the council vacancy for district 2. Additionally, I will not be a candidate for the open district 2 seat in 2026. I am excited about the make-up of the new council and look forward to positively engaging and building consensus with you.
I served on the city planning commission for 6 years from 2007 -2013. I was elected citywide to the city council in 2013 and served a 5-year term. I have been a longtime Cub, Boy and Girl scout parent leader and volunteer to both Forest Home Farms and our Jazz at the Library series.
My previous citywide experiences will of course be a benefit but I believe it will be my ability to “ask the right questions” on a wide variety of policy issues that will serve the council and our residents the best these next 24 months.
Maintaining our city’s “best in class” community standards, I look forward to working with council and staff to ensure the city’s financial stability going forward. I am committed to the ongoing community development and prudent planning that has been approved, especially in the City Center core area.
My previous experiences do allow me to step right in and understand, with depth, issues that the council will deal with these next two years. I am a good listener, do my homework and work with city staff behind the scenes to stay current. I am able to commit to all necessary meetings.
San Ramon has great opportunities and challenges ahead; I welcome the opportunity to join you in this work. I look forward to speaking with all of you and wish you the best in your roles as public servants.
Harry Sachs
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Packet Pg. 17
Attachment: City Council Appointment Applications (4532 : City Council Appointment- Selection of Applicants to Formal Interview)
CITY COUNCIL APPLICATION
Applicant: Rajneesh Saini
Candidate Statement:
As a resident of San Ramon for over eight years and having raised my three children here, I am deeply invested in the well-being of our community and eager to contribute my skills and experience as a member of the City Council. I am committed to fostering a strong sense of community and ensuring responsible governance.
My experience coaching Field Hockey and leading teams in technology companies has provided me with valuable leadership and team-building skills. I have successfully led and mentored diverse groups of student-athletes, fostering a positive team environment and promoting collaboration. I have also helped shape innovative products that has profound impact to the world such as working on Autonomous driving. This experience has honed my communication and interpersonal skills, allowing me to effectively motivate and guide individuals towards shared goals.
I understand the time commitment required of a City Councilmember, including regular meetings, regional board assignments, community events, and training. My current situation allows me the flexibility to fully dedicate myself to these responsibilities, including attending meetings on the 2nd and 4th Tuesdays, as well as special meetings, and other events as needed.
My over eight years as a San Ramon resident have provided me with valuable insights into the opportunities and challenges facing our city. I am familiar with [mention specific local issues if you know them, e.g. traffic congestion, local schools]. I am committed to working collaboratively to address these challenges and ensure a thriving future for San Ramon.
My experience coaching youth sports has further solidified my commitment to serving the San Ramon community and developing our youth.
I am confident that my leadership, communication, and team-building skills, combined with my deep commitment to San Ramon, make me a strong candidate for City Council. I am eager to serve our community and contribute to building a brighter future for all residents.
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Packet Pg. 18
Attachment: City Council Appointment Applications (4532 : City Council Appointment- Selection of Applicants to Formal Interview)
CITY COUNCIL APPLICATION
Applicant: Baljit Sull
Candidate Statement:
Since 1989, I have been rooted in San Ramon. I attending Pine Valley Middle School and graduating California High School in 1995. I graduated in 2001 with a Bachelor of Arts in Communications and a minor in Information Systems from the University of Arizona.
Through my educational and work experience I have cultivated a unique skill set rooted in communication, relationship building and advocacy. I believe the City Council needs a person with a historical perspective on San Ramon. I have seen many changes in this community over the last 35 years of being a resident.
I have been involved in various non-profits and volunteer organizations including San Ramon Futbol Club for 8 years, T-Shirt Sub-Committee Chair for the Run For Education for 10 years, Local PTA and Contra Costa County PTA. I’ve been a youth sports coach for City of San Ramon, City of Dublin and San Ramon FC collectively about 13+ years. I appreciate San Ramon’s commitment to the arts as I am a member of the San Ramon Symphonic Band, where I play euphonium horn.
But the most important volunteer position I have held is being part of the organizing team for the "Bay Sikh Community Blanket Drive" that now memorializes its founder Betty Sull who started the blanket drive out of the Fremont Gurdwara/Sikh Temple over 30 years ago. My mother Betty Sull had instilled a live long sense of service to community.
Since 2011, I have served as a Chief Vice President of Sull Corp, Inc. The corporation owns and maintains three high volume petrol stations in Fairfield, Suisun City and Williams, CA. Prior to 2011, I worked as an information technology specialist for AT&T and Family Violence Law Center serving Alameda County. The Family Violence Law Center is a non-profit which assists people and families out of domestic violence situations. In this role, as the IT Manager I also assisted in the grant process as well as grant reporting.
Being apart of the San Ramon for such a long time, I have the skills and motivation to give back to my community.
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Packet Pg. 19
Attachment: City Council Appointment Applications (4532 : City Council Appointment- Selection of Applicants to Formal Interview)
CITY COUNCIL APPLICATION
Applicant: Tiffany Uhri Chu
Candidate Statement:
I am excited to submit my candidacy for the San Ramon City Council District 2 seat, and eager to bring my passion for public service, and my commitment to our community, to this important role.
With a master’s degree in education and a law degree, I bring a well-rounded perspective to public service, combining my ability to advocate for others with the skills to make informed, fair, and thoughtful decisions. My background and experience have taught me the value of critical thinking, collaboration, and finding solutions that benefit the greater good; qualities that I will bring to the City Council.
As our city plans for significant growth and new housing developments, I understand the urgency and importance of managing this transition thoughtfully. We need to balance the state housing mandates with the need for infrastructure and neighborhood preservation, while also ensuring that the Measure N taxpayer dollars are spent wisely on projects that benefit all of us. It’s vital that as we expand, we do so responsibly, keeping in mind the future that we are creating for our children and future generations.
I understand the importance of fiscal responsibility and will ensure that our city’s resources are managed efficiently, making decisions that prioritize long-term sustainability without overburdening taxpayers.
As a dedicated parent of two young children, I submit my candidacy for City Council with a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing our community. I am committed to ensuring that our city continues to be a great place to raise a family, with safe neighborhoods, excellent schools, and a strong sense of community.
Protecting the quality of life of San Ramon residents is a top priority and means ensuring our open spaces and parks remain accessible and well-maintained for families to enjoy. Additionally, I believe that keeping crime rates low is essential to maintaining the safety and security of all our neighborhoods. I will support policies and initiatives that enhance public safety, ensuring that our city remains a place where families feel secure and can thrive.
I would be honored to have your support to serve on the City Council, where I can bring my education, legal experience, and passion for public service to work for the citizens of San Ramon.
Thank you for the opportunity.
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Packet Pg. 20
Attachment: City Council Appointment Applications (4532 : City Council Appointment- Selection of Applicants to Formal Interview)
CITY COUNCIL APPLICATION
Applicant: Veena Virdee
Candidate Statement:
My family immigrated to the US from India in 1969. I was born and raised in Vallejo, California.
My family and I moved to the Tri-Valley in 1989 where I attended Foothill High School. I attended the University of California, Davis and graduated with a BS degree in Environmental Biology and Management. My husband and I have been married for twenty-nine years and have three amazing children who were born and raised in San Ramon. We decided to settle in San Ramon in 2002 because we felt our children would be part of an esteemed school district and could flourish in a community that was balanced and welcoming, full of the same family values we wanted to instill in our children. I was fortunate to stay home with my children wholeheartedly while my husband pursued his career. As parents, we made sure to become involved with our children's education and extracurricular activities including sports. I have volunteer experience with the San Ramon Bears, this was a great experience as I was able to create years long friendships, connect with others and give back to our community. My decision to work for the San Ramon Valley Unified School district began in 2006, I was able to balance working and maintaining involvement with our children. I have been with the district for over twenty years, currently working at Iron Horse Middle School for the past ten years where I hold the position of Office Manager working directly with the Administration team and district management.
San Ramon has changed over the years, it is growing and has potential to flourish into an even larger impactful and creative community. My education will enable me to clearly understand city resources, changes in growth and development including impact reports/general plans, transportation and housing needs, support environmental education programs and so much more.
My work experience has enabled me to connect with others at various levels and understand the needs of our community. Times are changing, we need to make sure that we are conscientious of what our community needs. My family background helps me understand the cultural needs of our city. We are transitioning to a diverse community, we must continue to make our families feel welcome and safe just as my family did years ago. I feel confident that I would be a positive, impactful addition to our City’s management if given the opportunity.
2.1.a
Packet Pg. 21
Attachment: City Council Appointment Applications (4532 : City Council Appointment- Selection of Applicants to Formal Interview)