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Agenda-Item-Number-1-Public-Arts-Committee-PAC-Interviews-Redacted

Sebastopol City Council
March 3, 2026

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Agenda-Item-Number-1-Public-Arts-Committee-PAC-Interviews-Redacted
Meeting
March 3, 2026
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Sebastopol City Council
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Text extracted from the city's file for reading and search. Open the original on www.cityofsebastopol.gov. That file is the official record.

CITY OF SEBASTOPOL CITY COUNCIL
AGENDA ITEM REPORT FOR MEETING OF: March 3, 2026
=========================================================================================== To: Honorable Mayor and City Councilmembers
From: Victoria Henkel, Permit Technician
Subject: Public Arts Committee Interviews
=========================================================================================== RECOMMENDATIONS:

That the City Council conduct interviews for three openings on the Public Arts Committee and consider making appointments later in the agenda.

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY:

PUBLIC ARTS COMMITTEE – 4 YEAR TERM
The Public Arts Committee uses the Art In-Lieu Fund to develop public art projects within City limits and recommends them to Council. There are currently three openings on the committee. Vacancies are available under the categories listed below, and approved by the City Council.

BACKGROUND AND DISCUSSION:

The Public Arts Committee meets on the second Tuesday every other month from 1:00 p.m. to 2:50 p.m. in the Sebastopol City Hall Conference Room on 7120 Bodega Ave, Sebastopol, CA. Terms of office are four-yearstaggered terms, and the opening term will last until December 31st, 2029.

Preference will be shown to City residents and persons who own a business or work in the City; however, qualified candidates from the greater Sebastopol and Sonoma County area will be considered. The City Council will consider the following categories:

1. Active members of a city-based, art-focused, registered nonprofit organization, entity, or facility

2. Persons with experience in the public art field as either an artist, installer, or designer

3. Members of the general public

4. A member of the Design Review Board
Current Public Arts Committee terms/categories are listed below (vacancies are highlighted)

MEMBERS CATEGORY TERM ENDING DATE
Robert Brent Category 2 12/31/2025
Jeff Stucker Category 3 12/31/2025
Barbara Harris Category 1 12/31/2025
Gavin Waters Category 2 12/31/2028
Lynn Deedler (DRB) Category 4 Upon expiration of DRB term The City Council received applications from the following individuals for the three openings on the Public Arts Committee:

APPLICANTS CATEGORY
Robert Brent Category 2
Jeff Stucker Category 3
Barbara Harris Category 1
Kierston Aiello Category 3
Nicole Letaw Category 2/3
Agenda Item Number: 1 Agenda Item Number: 1
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Interviews for the applicants are scheduled as follows, beginning at 6:00 pm:

Applicant Name Category:

1. Robert Brent Category 2

2. Jeff Stucker Category 3

3. Barbara Harris Category 1

4. Kierston Aiello Category 3

5. Nicole Letaw Category 2/3
STAFF ANALYSIS:

The City received all applications within the time period for the three vacancies. This item is for the Council to consider such applications for the three available seats. If the seats are unfilled, City staff will re-advertise the vacancies.

CITY COUNCIL GOALS / PRIORITIES / GENERAL PLAN CONSISTENCY:

Goal 4: High-Performance Organization
Restoring public trust through transparent and inclusive processes Improving public communications and community engagement General Plan Goal CD 4: Support Art of All Types Throughout the Community Policy CD 4-5: Utilize the Public Arts Committee to provide leadership in the arts community to:
• Implement the City’s public art goals
• Establish cooperative partnerships with private, public, and educational agencies • Increase art awareness throughout the city
• Develop funding opportunities for public art
• Explore opportunities to expand community arts participation • Explore opportunities to promote arts education and participation in local schools COMMUNITY OUTREACH:

This item has been noticed in accordance with the Ralph M. Brown Act and was available for public viewing and review at least 72 hours prior to the scheduled meeting date.

FISCAL IMPACT:

There is no direct fiscal impact associated with the recommended action tonight.

RESTATED RECOMMENDATION:

1. Conduct interviews with the five applicants
OPTIONS:

None. Consideration of appointment will be considered later in the agenda.

ATTACHMENTS:

Applications (redacted)
APPROVALS:

Department Head Approval: Approval Date: ___2/17/2026____ CEQA Determination (Planning): Approval Date: ____1/5/2026____ The proposed action is not a project under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Agenda Item Number: 1 Agenda Item Number: 1
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Administrative Services (Financial) Approval Date:___N/A _________ Costs authorized in City Approved Budget: ☐ Yes ☐ No  N/A Account Code (if applicable) ___________________________ City Attorney Approval: Approval Date: ___N/A_________
City Manager Approval: Approval Date: ___2/17/2026____
Agenda Item Number: 1 Agenda Item Number: 1
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The City Council will consider the following categories:

1. Active members of a City-based, art focused, registered nonprofit organization, entity or facility.

2. Persons with experience in the public art field as either an artist, installer or designer.

3. Members of the general public.

4. A member of the Design Review Board.

Which category is being applied for? (Check all that apply)

2. 3.

Name:

Home Address, City, State and Zip Code:

Home Phone Number:

Work Phone Number:

If appointed, do you want this number to be visible to the public? □Yes □No
Facsimile Number:

If appointed, do you want this number to be visible to the public? □Yes □No
E-Mail Address:

If appointed, do you want this address to be visible to the □No
X
Robert Brent
1550 Furlong Rd.

Sebastopol, CA 95472
__707-829-0605________________
If appointed, do you want this number to be visible to the public? □Yes X□No
1 X.
[email protected]
public?
X□Yes
Are you a registered voter in Sebastopol?
□Yes X□No
If so, for how long?
Agenda Item Number: 1 Agenda Item Number: 1
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Have you attended a meeting of this body? When?
Have you served on, interviewed for, or applied for this body previously? □No
If so, when?
Present Employer:

Job Title:

Do you hold a current business license from the City of Sebastopol? □Yes X□No
If so, for how long?
Currently serving on this Commisison
X□Yes
2 Years ago
Retired
Agenda Item Number: 1 Agenda Item Number: 1
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Have you previously served on any governmental bodies or held elected office? If so please list position held and dates:

Please list civic or charitable organization to which you belong or have belonged:

Have you been an officer in any of these organizations? If so, please list position held and dates:

What special interests, skills and talents would you bring to this board, commission, or committee? Please list any college, professional or vocational schools you have attended with major subject studied, dates and any earned degrees:
4 year term on Harmony Dist. School Board 1988 to 1992
2 Years on Sebastopol PAC
Sonoma Land Trust, 33 years on the Board
Sebastopol Center for the Arts, 10 years on the Board and managed construction of the current facility
Laguna de Santa Rosa Foundation, Docent and Guide
Long background in arts. Have been a professional potter, and now an avocational woodworker.

Oberlin College
VP of Sonoma Land Trust Board
President of Sebastopol Center for the Arts Board
Chair of PAC, currently Vice Chair
Agenda Item Number: 1 Agenda Item Number: 1
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Please list any special awards or recognition you have received:

Please state why you would like to become a member of this board, commission or Committee, including what specific objectives you would be working toward as a member of this body:

Are you associated with any organization/employment that might be deemed a conflict of interest in performing your duties if appointed to this position?
□Yes
If yes, please state name oforganization/employment:

City policy directs all appointed, advisory body members not to vote on matters where there exists a potential conflict of interest such as property ownership near a project, or a financial relationship with the applicant. Would you be willing to abstain from voting if such a conflict arises? □No
How did you hear about this opening?
Sebastopol Citizen of the Year, 2013
Hope to continue in this position.

X□No
X□Yes
From City staff as my current term is expiring.

Agenda Item Number: 1 Agenda Item Number: 1
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Is there any other information that you feel would be useful to the City Council in reviewing your application and materials provided with the application? What do you think qualifies you to be appointed to this board/committee/commission? Are there particular issues you think the board/committee/commission should concentrate on? How should community comments be integrated into the board/committee/commission decision-making process?
Have been committed to the arts in Sebastopol since 2005 Funding for the North Entry Sculpture, and other projects currently under discussion with available funds until further funding is available. Maintenance of the Community Sculpture Garden Comments are always welcomed at the the beginning of meetings and listened to and discussed by the members Agenda Item Number: 1 Agenda Item Number: 1
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If appointed, how would you handle it if another board/committee/commission member vehemently disagrees with your comments on a regular basis?
How would you handle a situation where a proposal comes before your board/committee/commission that the City staff finds consistent with City policies and standards, but that you personally do not support?
I certify that I have thoroughly read and understand all material in this application.

Applicant’s Signature :

Without personal comments, focusing on what compromise might be agreed upon, and ultimately the majority vote.

I would vote no, and accept the outcome of the vote.

X
Applicant’s Name (PLEASE PRINT): Robert Brent
Date:10/30/2025
Robert Brent
Agenda Item Number: 1 Agenda Item Number: 1
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The City Council will consider the following categories:

1. Active members of a City-based, art focused, registered nonprofit organization, entity or facility.

2. Persons with experience in the public art field as either an artist, installer or designer.

3. Members of the general public.

4. A member of the Design Review Board.

Which category is being applied for? (Check all that apply)  1.
 2.
 3.

Name:

Home Address, City, State and Zip Code:

Home Phone Number: __________________
If appointed, do you want this number to be visible to the public? □Yes □No
Work Phone Number:

If appointed, do you want this number to be visible to the public? □Yes □No
Facsimile Number:

If appointed, do you want this number to be visible to the public? □Yes □No
E-Mail Address:

If appointed, do you want this address to be visible to the public?
□Yes □No
Are you a registered voter in Sebastopol?
□Yes □No
If so, for how long?
X
X
X
[email protected] 707-318-9202 Sebastopol, CA 95472 7305 Elphick Road Jeff Stucker X Docusign Envelope ID: 08B31570-58F4-4477-96FF-3F34333506B8 Agenda Item Number: 1 Agenda Item Number: 1
City Council Meeting Packet of: March 3, 2026
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Do you hold a current business license from the City of Sebastopol? □Yes □No
If so, for how long?
Have you attended a meeting of this body? When?
Have you served on, interviewed for, or applied for this body previously? □Yes □No
If so, when?
Present Employer:

Job Title:

X
Safari Guide Safari West [Part Time] 2021 X
Have served on the PAC since 2021
Docusign Envelope ID: 08B31570-58F4-4477-96FF-3F34333506B8 Agenda Item Number: 1 Agenda Item Number: 1
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Have you previously served on any governmental bodies or held elected office? If so please list position held and dates:

Please list civic or charitable organization to which you belong or have belonged:

Have you been an officer in any of these organizations? If so, please list position held and dates:

What special interests, skills and talents would you bring to this board, commission, or committee? Please list any college, professional or vocational schools you have attended with major subject studied, dates and any earned degrees:

BLA from U of Georgia; Teaching Certificate from SSU
I was an Elementary Public School Teacher for 32 years, so bring organizational & planning skills; former landscape architect employee; amateur artist No
Interact(Youth Arm of Rotary International; Adopt-a-Highway (volunteer crew chief); South Sebastopol Neighborhood Alliance No
Docusign Envelope ID: 08B31570-58F4-4477-96FF-3F34333506B8 Agenda Item Number: 1 Agenda Item Number: 1
City Council Meeting Packet of: March 3, 2026
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Please list any special awards or recognition you have received:

Please state why you would like to become a member of this board, commission or Committee, including what specific objectives you would be working toward as a member of this body:

Are you associated with any organization/employment that might be deemed a conflict of interest in performing your duties if appointed to this position?
□Yes □No
If yes, please state name oforganization/employment:

City policy directs all appointed, advisory body members not to vote on matters where there exists a potential conflict of interest such as property ownership near a project, or a financial relationship with the applicant. Would you be willing to abstain from voting if such a conflict arises? □Yes □No
How did you hear about this opening?
City Council Meeting Agenda X
X
I would like the opportunity to continue with the goals and ideas which the PAC has been working on and working towards, which include sculptures at all four main entrances to town, increasing the number of major pieces of art/sculpture within the public domain; developing a festival which honors art; working towards partnerships(for example, with the Seb Center for the Arts) Teacher of the Year, 2016 Docusign Envelope ID: 08B31570-58F4-4477-96FF-3F34333506B8 Agenda Item Number: 1 Agenda Item Number: 1
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Is there any other information that you feel would be useful to the City Council in reviewing your application and materials provided with the application? What do you think qualifies you to be appointed to this board/committee/commission? Are there particular issues you think the board/committee/commission should concentrate on? How should community comments be integrated into the board/committee/commission decision-making process?
Comments for the PAC, whether viewed positively or
negatively, should be discussed by the PAC in meetings
and a determination made on how best to incorporate
and/or address those comments.

Full funding for the PAC; recommendations for partnerships; upgrading current signage policies; inventory of public art in City Limits
Past service to the PAC; knowledge of the public art situation in Sebastopol; ability to work well with others; current PAC chair No
Docusign Envelope ID: 08B31570-58F4-4477-96FF-3F34333506B8 Agenda Item Number: 1 Agenda Item Number: 1
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If appointed, how would you handle it if another board/committee/commission member vehemently disagrees with your comments on a regular basis?
How would you handle a situation where a proposal comes before your board/committee/commission that the City staff finds consistent with City policies and standards, but that you personally do not support?
I certify that I have thoroughly read and understand all material in this application.

Applicant’s Signature :

Applicant’s Name (PLEASE PRINT):

Date:

I would recommend it be agendized and a full discussion with all PAC members take place. I would hold no bias about the proposal, but would listen with an open mind to the proposal and comments from fellow members, then vote how I feel best in support of citizens. 10-31-2025 Jeff Stucker X
I would arrange to speak with this member one-on-one to address how the situation impacts the progress and meetings of, the PAC; how this behavior impacts other PAC members & staff Docusign Envelope ID: 08B31570-58F4-4477-96FF-3F34333506B8 Agenda Item Number: 1 Agenda Item Number: 1
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The City Council will consider the following categories:

1. Active members of a City-based, art focused, registered nonprofit organization, entity or facility.

2. Persons with experience in the public art field as either an artist, installer or designer.

3. Members of the general public.

4. A member of the Design Review Board.

Which category is being applied for? (Check all that apply)  1.
 2.
 3.

Name:

Home Address, City, State and Zip Code:

Home Phone Number: __________________
If appointed, do you want this number to be visible to the public? □Yes □No
Work Phone Number:

If appointed, do you want this number to be visible to the public? □Yes □No
Facsimile Number:

If appointed, do you want this number to be visible to the public? □Yes □No
E-Mail Address:

If appointed, do you want this address to be visible to the public?
□Yes □No
Are you a registered voter in Sebastopol?
□Yes □No
If so, for how long?
Kierston Aiello
611 Snow Rd.

Sebastopol, CA 95472
(707)235-9391
[email protected]
4 years
Agenda Item Number: 1 Agenda Item Number: 1
City Council Meeting Packet of: March 3, 2026
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Do you hold a current business license from the City of Sebastopol? □Yes □No
If so, for how long?
Have you attended a meeting of this body? When?
Have you served on, interviewed for, or applied for this body previously? □Yes □No
If so, when?
Present Employer:

Job Title:

No
No
Ochs Labs
Operations Assistant
Agenda Item Number: 1 Agenda Item Number: 1
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Have you previously served on any governmental bodies or held elected office? If so please list position held and dates:

Please list civic or charitable organization to which you belong or have belonged:

Have you been an officer in any of these organizations? If so, please list position held and dates:

What special interests, skills and talents would you bring to this board, commission, or committee? Please list any college, professional or vocational schools you have attended with major subject studied, dates and any earned degrees:

No
None
None
- Received Research Grant for Metalsmithing
- President of Small Metals Club
- Certificate in Museum and Gallery Studies
Humboldt State University- Bachelor's Degree- Art (History and Studio) 2014 I have been a practicing artist for 15 years, specializing in metalsmithing and jewelry. I hold a degree in Art with a particular focus on Public Art and American Craft, as well as a Certificate of Study in Museum and Gallery Studies.

In addition to my arts background, I am an active community member and regularly volunteer with Food for Thought, the Richmond Art Center, and Gravenstein Elementary where my 10 year old attends.

Before my current work, I served as the Lead Designer and Product Development Manager for a local jewelry manufacturer.

I have a working knowledge of a wide range of artistic mediums and have been involved with, or am familiar with, many local arts organizations.

I am organized, experienced in project management and all aspects of Operations, and am deeply committed to helping maintain Sebastopol as a vibrant, inclusive, and creative community.

Agenda Item Number: 1 Agenda Item Number: 1
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Please list any special awards or recognition you have received:

Please state why you would like to become a member of this board, commission or Committee, including what specific objectives you would be working toward as a member of this body:

Are you associated with any organization/employment that might be deemed a conflict of interest in performing your duties if appointed to this position?
□Yes □No
If yes, please state name oforganization/employment:

City policy directs all appointed, advisory body members not to vote on matters where there exists a potential conflict of interest such as property ownership near a project, or a financial relationship with the applicant. Would you be willing to abstain from voting if such a conflict arises? □Yes □No
How did you hear about this opening?
An email from the Sebastopol Buisness Center.

I am applying to the Public Arts Board because I care deeply about the role art plays in creating a welcoming, inspiring, and culturally rich community. As a long-time practicing artist and volunteer, I have seen firsthand how public art can strengthen neighborhoods, spark conversations, and make people feel more connected to where they live.

My goal as a board member would be to help support projects that elevate local voices, celebrate Sebastopol’s unique character, and ensure the arts remain accessible to people of all ages and backgrounds. I would also work toward building stronger collaborations between artists, schools, nonprofits, and city programs. - Best New Product, Interweave Publishing 2023
- Top 5 Emerging Artists, Interweave Publications 2022
- Visiting Alumni Artist, Humboldt State 2022
- Undergraduate Research Grant, Humboldt State 2014
Agenda Item Number: 1 Agenda Item Number: 1
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Is there any other information that you feel would be useful to the City Council in reviewing your application and materials provided with the application? What do you think qualifies you to be appointed to this board/committee/commission? Are there particular issues you think the board/committee/commission should concentrate on? How should community comments be integrated into the board/committee/commission decision-making process?
I believe the board should prioritize public art that is engaging, thought-provoking, and reflective of the full diversity of our community.

Public art has the power to spark conversation, create shared experiences, and help people feel seen and represented.

I would like to see the board focus on projects that elevate a wide range of voices—including those that have historically been underrepresented—and that highlight the cultural, generational, and artistic diversity that makes Sebastopol unique.

By supporting work that is both visually compelling and rooted in meaningful perspectives, we can strengthen community connections and ensure that our public spaces feel welcoming and inclusive. Thoughtful public art can serve as a bridge between residents, visitors, and the shared history and values of our city, fostering a sense of belonging for everyone.

I am qualified for this board because I bring a blend of artistic experience, project management skills, and community involvement.

As a practicing artist, I understand both the creative and cultural value of public art.

My work as a Product Development Manager has given me practical experience with budgeting, timelines, and collaborative projects.

In addition, my volunteer work in the community keeps me connected to local needs and perspectives.

Together, these experiences prepare me to contribute meaningfully to the board’s work.

I would also like the Council to know that I bring both an artist’s perspective and practical administrative experience.

My background in product development, project management, and community volunteering allows me to approach public art with creativity as well as an understanding of timelines, budgets, and collaborative processes.

At the same time, I am deeply invested in the long-term health of Sebastopol’s arts community.

As both a practicing artist and an engaged parent and volunteer, I care about creating spaces where creativity is encouraged and where families feel connected to the arts. I see this board position as an opportunity to help nurture a vibrant, inclusive artistic environment that reflects and enriches the character of our community for years to come.

Community comments should play a meaningful role in the board’s decision-making process, as public art is most effective when it reflects the people who experience it every day. I believe feedback should be gathered in a clear and accessible way—through regular forums, surveys, or community outreach—so the board can stay informed about the community’s values and interests.

Rather than driving every decision, community input should serve as a guiding perspective that helps shape priorities and highlight themes the board may want to consider. This includes making space for the voices of younger generations, whose viewpoints are essential in ensuring that public art remains relevant, forward-thinking, and reflective of the community’s future.

By thoughtfully considering community feedback, including the insights of local youth, the board can make well-rounded decisions that support inclusive, meaningful public art for Sebastopol.

Agenda Item Number: 1 Agenda Item Number: 1
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If appointed, how would you handle it if another board/committee/commission member vehemently disagrees with your comments on a regular basis?
How would you handle a situation where a proposal comes before your board/committee/commission that the City staff finds consistent with City policies and standards, but that you personally do not support?
I certify that I have thoroughly read and understand all material in this application.

Applicant’s Signature :

Applicant’s Name (PLEASE PRINT):

Date:

If another board member regularly and passionately disagreed with me, I’d start by remind myself that lively debate is part of the deal. I’d make an effort to really listen to their point of view—sometiminges people just want to feel heard before any progress can happen.

I’d keep things focused on the ideas, not the personalities, and try to stay calm even if the conversation gets spirited.

And if it became a pattern, I’d probably suggest a friendly one-on-one chat to clear the air. Sometimes a simple conversation (and maybe a cup of coffee) can work wonders.

At the end of the day, we’re all there for the same reason: to support the community and help create great public art. I f we can keep that shared purpose in mind—and maybe keep a sense of humor—we can disagree without derailing the work.

Kierston Aiello
11/12/2025
If a proposal met City policies and standards but I personally didn’t support it, I’d remind myself that my role is to serve the community and uphold the guidelines we’re given—not just my own preferences. I would share my concerns respectfully and clearly, focusing on specific reasons rather than personal taste, and then listen to how the rest of the board and staff interpret the proposal.

If, after discussion, the project is still clearly aligned with City policies, I would acknowledge that and respect the process.

Part of serving on a board is recognizing that not every decision will match my individual perspective, and that’s okay. My goal would be to help ensure that the outcome supports what is best for the city’s character—its sense of identity, inclusiveness, and creative spirit—even if it’s not exactly what I would have personally chosen.

Ultimately, it’s about doing what serves the community as a whole, preserving what makes Sebastopol unique, and working within the framework we’re all committed to—not just what I happen to prefer.

Agenda Item Number: 1 Agenda Item Number: 1
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The City Council will consider the following categories:

1. Active members of a City-based, art focused, registered nonprofit organization, entity or facility.

2. Persons with experience in the public art field as either an artist, installer or designer.

3. Members of the general public.

4. A member of the Design Review Board.

Which category is being applied for? (Check all that apply)  1.
 2.
 3.

Name:

Home Address, City, State and Zip Code:

Home Phone Number: __________________
If appointed, do you want this number to be visible to the public? □Yes □No
Work Phone Number:

If appointed, do you want this number to be visible to the public? □Yes □No
Facsimile Number:

If appointed, do you want this number to be visible to the public? □Yes □No
E-Mail Address:

If appointed, do you want this address to be visible to the public?
□Yes □No
Are you a registered voter in Sebastopol?
□Yes □No
If so, for how long?
Nicole Letaw
7451 Huntley Street Sebastopol CA 95472
786-457-2446
[email protected]
3+ years
Agenda Item Number: 1 Agenda Item Number: 1
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Do you hold a current business license from the City of Sebastopol? □Yes □No
If so, for how long?
Have you attended a meeting of this body? When?
Have you served on, interviewed for, or applied for this body previously? □Yes □No
If so, when?
Present Employer:

Job Title:
3+ years
No
Self Employed
Art Producer
Agenda Item Number: 1 Agenda Item Number: 1
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Have you previously served on any governmental bodies or held elected office? If so please list position held and dates:

Please list civic or charitable organization to which you belong or have belonged:

Have you been an officer in any of these organizations? If so, please list position held and dates:

What special interests, skills and talents would you bring to this board, commission, or committee? Please list any college, professional or vocational schools you have attended with major subject studied, dates and any earned degrees:

N/A
N/A
N/A
I bring more than fifteen years of experience leading creative production, curating artwork, and managing multidisciplinary art teams at organizations such as Weta FX, Lucasfilm, and Magic Leap. I am skilled at collaborating with diverse stakeholders, commissioning artists, and guiding creative work that reflects community values. As someone who is relatively new to Sebastopol, I am deeply invested in learning from and contributing to the community’s cultural landscape. I would bring both professional expertise and genuine local engagement to the Public Arts Committee.

Florida International University 2001 - 2005 Bachelors in Journalism and Minor in Visual Arts Agenda Item Number: 1 Agenda Item Number: 1
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Please list any special awards or recognition you have received:

Please state why you would like to become a member of this board, commission or Committee, including what specific objectives you would be working toward as a member of this body:

Are you associated with any organization/employment that might be deemed a conflict of interest in performing your duties if appointed to this position?
□Yes □No
If yes, please state name of organization/employment:

City policy directs all appointed, advisory body members not to vote on matters where there exists a potential conflict of interest such as property ownership near a project, or a financial relationship with the applicant. Would you be willing to abstain from voting if such a conflict arises? □Yes □No
How did you hear about this opening?
I would like to serve on the Public Arts Committee because I believe public art strengthens community identity and fosters meaningful local engagement. As a newer resident, I am committed to contributing to Sebastopol’s creative landscape and supporting projects that reflect the town’s values. My focus would be on elevating local artists, ensuring clear and thoughtful project planning, and helping steward public art that is accessible, communityinformed, and lasting.

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Is there any other information that you feel would be useful to the City Council in reviewing your application and materials provided with the application? What do you think qualifies you to be appointed to this board/committee/commission? Are there particular issues you think the board/committee/commission should concentrate on? How should community comments be integrated into the board/committee/commission decision-making process?
I would simply add that my career has centered on supporting artists, managing creative processes, and guiding visual work that serves a larger community or narrative purpose. I approach collaboration with transparency, professionalism, and respect for diverse perspectives. I am committed to contributing those strengths locally and to supporting Sebastopol’s creative and cultural vitality.

I am a Sebastopol resident with more than fifteen years of experience leading art production, supporting artists, and managing complex creative projects for major studios and organizations. My background in curating artwork, commissioning creators, and facilitating collaborative, community-aligned visual work directly aligns with the responsibilities of this committee. I bring a strong mix of creative judgment, operational rigor, and a sincere commitment to contributing to the cultural life of the town.

Are there particular issues you think the board/committee/commission should concentrate on? I believe the committee should focus on creating opportunities for new and emerging artists to contribute to Sebastopol’s public art landscape. Expanding the diversity of artistic voices will strengthen the town’s cultural identity and support its creative community. I also think the committee should prioritize projects that make public spaces more welcoming and enjoyable for residents and visitors alike, enhancing the overall experience of our town.

Community input should be gathered early and consistently through clear, accessible channels such as public meetings, surveys, and open comment periods. Feedback should be summarized, reviewed, and incorporated into project criteria so that decisions reflect the community’s values and priorities. This helps ensure that public art projects are both widely supported and genuinely connected to the people they serve.

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If appointed, how would you handle it if another board/committee/commission member vehemently disagrees with your comments on a regular basis?
How would you handle a situation where a proposal comes before your board/committee/commission that the City staff finds consistent with City policies and standards, but that you personally do not support?
I certify that I have thoroughly read and understand all material in this application.

Applicant’s Signature :

Applicant’s Name (PLEASE PRINT):

Date:

I would approach recurring disagreements with professionalism, openness, and respect. My focus would be on listening carefully, seeking clarification, and grounding discussions in shared goals rather than personal viewpoints. If needed, I would work to find common ground or compromise, and ensure that differing perspectives contribute constructively to the committee’s decisions. I believe healthy dialogue strengthens outcomes when handled with patience and civility Nicole Letaw
12/11/2025
If a proposal aligns with City policies and standards but I personally do not support it, I would focus on my role as a board member to uphold the community’s best interests. I would carefully review the proposal, ask questions to clarify any concerns, and engage in a fair discussion with fellow members. While I may have a personal preference, I would base my input and vote on objective criteria, policy guidance, and the broader benefit to the community.

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