CITY OF SIMI VALLEY
STAFF REPORT
J
anuary 26, 2026
To: Cit
y Council
Fr
om: Office of the City Manager
Luis Garibay, Assistant City Manager
S
ubject: A ppointment of Simi Valley Council On Aging Executive Board Members Staff Recommendation
I
t is recommended that the City Council approve, and the Mayor appoint, the applicants nominated to the Council On Aging (COA) Executive Board.
Background
T
he COA serves as an advisory board to the City Council on senior-related issues and is represented by a seven to nine-member Executive Board. Per COA Bylaws, City Council Resolution 2019- 10, Executive Board members are nominated by the COA general membership and recommended for appointment by the Mayor, with the approval of the City Council. Executive Board members serve staggered two- year terms expiring on January 31 of each year. Four Executive Board members’ terms are scheduled to expire on January 31, 2026. In addition, one Executive Board member vacancy occurred in January 2025 and remained unfilled, and a partial-term vacancy occurred in December 2025, resulting in a total of six vacancies. According to the COA Bylaws, Executive Board members may serve two consecutive terms and may serve additional terms provided 12 months have lapsed between appointments beyond the initial two consecutive terms.
Discussion
A r ec
ruitment to fill the Executive Board vacancies began on October 13, 2025, and concluded on November 14, 2025. The COA received ten applications and applicants were invited to attend an orientation session on December 3, 2025. O ne applicant has withdrawn from consideration. At the COA’s Annual Meeting held on January 12, 2026, the COA conducted an election and recommended six nominees for appointment to the Executive Board, as detailed below. The applications of the recommended nominees are included as Attachment A.
Nominees Term Expires
Deborah Laine January 31, 2027 (Partial Term)
Nancy Garcia January 31, 2028
David Lewis January 31, 2028
Mark Luker January 31, 2028
Jamuna Ramnath January 31, 2028
Candace Skor January 31, 2028
AGENDA ITEM NO.
3A(1)
The COA recommends that the City Council approve, and the Mayor appoint, the six applicants nominated by the COA general membership to serve on the COA Executive Board. If appointed, one nominee will serve a partial term commencing February 1, 2026, and concluding January 31, 2027, and five nominees will serve two-year terms concluding January 31, 2028.
Financial Impact
There is no financial impact.
City Council Priority
This item supports the Excellent City Government and Thriving Community Pillars of Excellence.
Suggested Motion
I move to approve , and the Mayor appoint , the six applicants nominated by the COA general membership to the Council On Aging Executive Board with one applicant to serve a partial term commencing February 1, 2026, and concluding January 31, 2027, and five applicants to serve two-year terms concluding January 31, 2028.
Summary
The COA serves as an advisory board to the City Council on senior-related issues and is represented by a seven to nine-member Executive Board. Per COA Bylaws, City Council Resolution 2019- 10, Executive Board members are nominated by the COA general membership and recommended for appointment by the Mayor, with the approval of the City Council. Executive Board members serve staggered two- year terms expiring on January 31 of each year. Four Executive Board members’ terms are scheduled to expire on January 31, 2026. In addition, one Executive Board member vacancy occurred in January 2025 and remained unfilled, and a partial-term vacancy occurred in December 2025, resulting in a total of six vacancies. According to the COA Bylaws, Executive Board members may serve two consecutive terms and may serve additional terms provided 12 months have lapsed between appointments beyond the initial two consecutive terms.
Therefore, it is recommended that the City Council approve, and the Mayor appoint, the six applicants nom inated by the COA general membership to the Council On Aging Executive Board with one applicant to serve a partial term commencing February 1, 2026, and concluding January 31, 2027, and five applicants to serve two-year terms concluding January 31, 2028.
Prepared by: Kimberly Post, Community Services Manager
Attachment
Attachment A – COA Executive Board Applications
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Robert Martin
From: City of Simi Valley, CA <[email protected]> Sent: Saturday, November 08, 2025 12:09 PM
To: COA
Subject: *NEW SUBMISSION* Council On Aging (COA) Executive Board Application CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe. If you suspect a phishing attempt please report it as phishing. Learn how.
Coun
cil On Aging (COA) Executive Board Application
Submission #: 4445702
I
P Address:
Submission Date: 11/08/2025 12:09
Survey Time: 47 minutes, 42 seconds
You have a new online form submission.
Note: all answers displaying "*****" are marked as sensitive and must be viewed after your login.
Read-Only Content
1. Name
Deborah Laine
2. Date of Birth
3. Home Address
Simi Valley, California 93063-5353
4. Primary Phone
5. Cell Number
6. Email
7. Why are you interested in serving on the COA Executive Board? I enjoy serving our community, especially senior activities. I work from home now and held a commissioner position for Simi for 2 years (AHA), always wanted to continue to support Simi in some way. I would like to participate and help in an area I have experience, community care and being a senior myself. certainly, understand areas of concern for our seniors, dealing with loneliness, keeping active, health, driving, participation in Sr. events, new learning/awareness, safety, volunteering, stress and Attachment A
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motivation. I would like to make a positive difference for seniors when possible. i understand volunteering and joining councils/boards is one method of helping where help is needed.
8. COA Executive Board meetings are held the second Monday of each month from 1:00 - 3:00 p.m. at the S
imi Valley Senior Center. Will you be able to attend each meeting on the scheduled day and time specified, and help in other areas as needed?
Yes
9. What strengths or qualifications do you have that would make you an impactful addition to the COA E
xecutive Board?
I was a part of community care in Henderson, Central Christian Church for 5 years, along with training in visitation with seniors in c
are centers, hospitals, I was trained in grief and divorce care. I was a small group leader of 16 single seniors, weekly meetings and immediate needs for this team for 2 years within CCC community care. Worked as a Purchasing Director, Executive Staff for 5 years at SNVRHA, SO. NV Regional Housing Authority, reached out to multiple seniors' facilities, to include food drives, townhall meetings while in this position. Made many senior friends and supported as needed. Experiences in all lines of communication and have extra time to enjoy helping where needed. Additionally volunteered at Goebel center in my early years volunteering with TO computer club to teach beginning computers to seniors. 6-week classes.
10. Describe the role you believe the COA should play in the community.
I believe it is all our responsibility to help in senior activities when possible. This area has been left to individuals trying on their own t
o get out into the community which is difficult at best. Some seniors are alone and/or shut in, not having the ability to find the activities to join. Create activities in multiple areas of interest to help all seniors, being mindful of what is needed for senior's as we are all aging together.
11. Please list any community activities or organizations that you are involved in:
None at the moment. Looking at opportunities for helping, donations during Thanksgiving dinner, possibly Ventura Mission.
I certify that I am sixty years of age or older and a Simi Valley resident. I understand that if selected and a
ppointed as a COA Executive Board Member, I will serve as a volunteer and at the pleasure of the City Council. As a volunteer, I understand that I am not covered by the City's insurance policy and, further, that the City's liability does not encompass volunteers.
12. Signature
Deborah Laine
T
hank you,
City of Simi Valley, CA
This is an automated message generated by Granicus. Please do not reply directly to this email. 4 1
Robert Martin
From: City of Simi Valley, CA <[email protected]> Sent: Thursday, November 13, 2025 11:00 PM
To: COA
Subject: *NEW SUBMISSION* Council On Aging (COA) Executive Board Application CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organizatio n. Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe. If you suspect a phishing attempt please report it as phishing. Learn how.
Council On Aging (COA) Executive Board Application
Submission #: 4456746
IP Address:
Submission Date: 11/13/2025 10:59
Survey Time: 5 minutes, 30 seconds
You have a new online form submission.
Note: all answers displaying "*****" are marked as sensitive and must be viewed after your login.
Read-Only Content
1 . Name
Nancy Garcia
2. Date of Birth
3. Home Address
Sim
i Valley, CA 93063
4. Primary Phone
5. Cell Number
6 . Email
7. Why are you interested in serving on the COA Executive Board? I have learned to embrace the joys of becoming a senior, even with all its challenges. I have come to the realization that I still have a lo
t to offer, especially when it comes to helping seniors overcome challenges associated with aging.
8. COA Executive Board meetings are held the second Monday of each month from 1:00 - 3:00 p.m. at the S
imi Valley Senior Center. Will you be able to attend each meeting on the scheduled day and time specified, and help in other areas as needed?
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Yes
9. What strengths or qualifications do you have that would make you an impactful addition to the COA Executive Board?
I have thirty plus years in the medical field which provides me with a wealth of knowledge that I’m willing to share to help seniors age gracefully. I am a natural born leader, with excellent communications skills. I also have training in conflict resolution.
10. Describe the role you believe the COA should play in the community.
I believe that the Council On Aging's main role within the community is to provide a setting that advocates for the needs of its seniors. A place that provides support through programs and events specific to seniors.
11. Please list any community activities or organizations that you are involved in:
I am a long time resident of Simi Valley, and moved here when I was ten years old. During my Junior high and High School years I served as; the first President of the Simi Valley Youth Council; member of the Planning Commission; Simi Valley Explorer Scout, Captain; and volunteer for the Simi Valley Free Clinic upon its conception. During my adulthood years I have served as; a member of Neighborhood Council, Chair; Emergency Preparedness Fair Chair, and CERT member. As a senior I am still going strong and I am serving as: Wellness Expo, Chair, Senior Center, volunteer, and an Ombudsman serving Ventura County.
I certify that I am sixty years of age or older and a Simi Valley resident. I understand that if selected and appointed as a COA Executive Board Member, I will serve as a volunteer and at the pleasure of the City Council. As a volunteer, I understand that I am not covered by the City's insurance policy and, further, that the City's liability does not encompass volunteers.
12. Signature
Nancy D. Garcia
Thank you,
City of Simi Valley, CA
This is an automated message generated by Granicus. Please do not reply directly to this email.
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Robert Martin
From: City of Simi Valley, CA <[email protected]> Sent: Wednesday, October 15, 2025 4:09 PM
To: COA
Subject: *NEW SUBMISSION* Council On Aging (COA) Executive Board Application CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organizatio n. Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe. If you suspect a phishing attempt please report it as phishing. Learn how.
Council On Aging (COA) Executive Board Application
Submission #: 4394959
IP Address:
Submission Date: 10/15/2025 4:08
Survey Time: 4 minutes, 27 seconds
You have a new online form submission.
Note: all answers displaying "*****" are marked as sensitive and must be viewed after your login.
Read-Only Content
1 . Name
DAVID LEWIS
2. Date of Birth
3. Home Address
sim
i valley, CA 93063
4. Primary Phone
5. Cell Number
6 . Email
7. Why are you interested in serving on the COA Executive Board? i am semi retired now and would like to serve
8. COA Executive Board meetings are held the second Monday of each month from 1:00 - 3:00 p.m. at the S
imi Valley Senior Center. Will you be able to attend each meeting on the scheduled day and time specified, and help in other areas as needed?
Yes
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9. What strengths or qualifications do you have that would make you an impactful addition to the COA Executive Board?
i am a contracor and business man so delaing with people and problem solving are my assets
10. Describe the role you believe the COA should play in the community. to take care of our elderly
11. Please list any community activities or organizations that you are involved in:
I certify that I am sixty years of age or older and a Simi Valley resident. I understand that if selected and appointed as a COA Executive Board Member, I will serve as a volunteer and at the pleasure of the City Council. As a volunteer, I understand that I am not covered by the City's insurance policy and, further, that the City's liability does not encompass volunteers.
12. Signature
david lewis
Thank you,
City of Simi Valley, CA
This is an automated message generated by Granicus. Please do not reply directly to this email.
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Robert Martin
From: City of Simi Valley, CA <[email protected]> Sent: Tuesday, October 21, 2025 7:58 AM
To: COA
Subject: *NEW SUBMISSION* Council On Aging (COA) Executive Board Application CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organizatio n. Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe. If you suspect a phishing attempt please report it as phishing. Learn how.
Council On Aging (COA) Executive Board Application
Submission #: 4405329
IP Address:
Submission Date: 10/21/2025 7:58
Survey Time: 8 minutes, 58 seconds
You have a new online form submission.
Note: all answers displaying "*****" are marked as sensitive and must be viewed after your login.
Read-Only Content
1 . Name
Mark Luker
2. Date of Birth
3. Home Address
Sim
i Valley, CA 93063
4. Primary Phone
5. Cell Number
6. Email
7. Why are you interested in serving on the COA Executive Board? I have served in the Air Force, and executive board of neighborhood council, I feel it's important to be active in in my community.
8. COA Executive Board meetings are held the second Monday of each month from 1:00 - 3:00 p.m. at the S
imi Valley Senior Center. Will you be able to attend each meeting on the scheduled day and time specified, and help in other areas as needed?
Yes
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9. What strengths or qualifications do you have that would make you an impactful addition to the COA Executive Board?
Disabled veteran, I have experience serving. Executive neighborhood council twice.
10. Describe the role you believe the COA should play in the community.
We advise the city council on issues concerning the senior members of our community.
11. Please list any community activities or organizations that you are involved in:
I certify that I am sixty years of age or older and a Simi Valley resident. I understand that if selected and appointed as a COA Executive Board Member, I will serve as a volunteer and at the pleasure of the City Council. As a volunteer, I understand that I am not covered by the City's insurance policy and, further, that the City's liability does not encompass volunteers.
12. Signature
Mark Luker
Thank you,
City of Simi Valley, CA
This is an automated message generated by Granicus. Please do not reply directly to this email.
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Robert Martin
From: City of Simi Valley, CA <[email protected]> Sent: Wednesday, November 12, 2025 10:39 AM
To: COA
Subject: *NEW SUBMISSION* Council On Aging (COA) Executive Board Application CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organizatio n. Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe. If you suspect a phishing attempt please report it as phishing. Learn how.
Council On Aging (COA) Executive Board Application
Submission #: 4452901
IP Address:
Submission Date: 11/12/2025 10:38
Survey Time: 13 minutes, 24 seconds
You have a new online form submission.
Note: all answers displaying "*****" are marked as sensitive and must be viewed after your login.
Read-Only Content
1 . Name
Jamuna Ramnath
2. Date of Birth
3. Home Address
Sim
i Valley, CA 93063
4. Primary Phone
5. Cell Number
6. Email
7. Why are you interested in serving on the COA Executive Board? I understand that the Council on Aging (COA) Board advises the city on supporting the needs of seniors in our community as well as a
dvocating for them, ensuring their voices are heard and their concerns are reflected in local decision-making. My background in science and business has taught me the importance of teamwork, effective communication, and lifelong learning. Through my volunteer work with homeless shelters and food drives, I have seen the impact that compassion and community service can have on people’s lives. My interest in serving on the Board comes from an appreciation for its mission and impact in the community. I live in Simi Valley for close to 30 years and a great friend of Al Brown. I was introduced to the COA and its commitment to supporting 11 2
seniors by a respected community leader, Al Brown (goes by “Uncle Al”), whose encouragement inspired me to get involved. I hope to contribute to the Board’s efforts to enhance the lives of seniors in Simi Valley and help ensure our community remains a place where older adults feel valued, supported, and engaged.
8. COA Executive Board meetings are held the second Monday of each month from 1:00 - 3:00 p.m. at the Simi Valley Senior Center. Will you be able to attend each meeting on the scheduled day and time specified, and help in other areas as needed?
Yes
9. What strengths or qualifications do you have that would make you an impactful addition to the COA Executive Board?
As a retired professional with experience in both academia and corporate environments, I wish to give back to my community in a meaningful way. Trained as a scientist, I built a career in biotechnology, supporting life sciences and healthcare products for a broad range of biotech and pharmaceutical clients. I believe I can be a valuable addition to the Board where I can leverage my expertise in:
a) understanding and addressing community challenges, b) applying strategic thinking to support community initiatives, c) managing complex projects, and d) collaborating effectively with Board members and city staff to set goals and make informed decisions
10. Describe the role you believe the COA should play in the community.
I believe the COA should serve as a strong advocate and connector for seniors—promoting programs that support wellness, healthcare, nutrition, independence, and sense of belonging. It should help ensure that older adults are valued, heard, respected and actively included in the life of the Simi Valley community.
11. Please list any community activities or organizations that you are involved in:
Currently, my priority is caring for my husband, a cancer survivor, while managing my household. I volunteer on a limited basis at t he Samaritan Center, an organization I began supporting earlier this year. Previously, I actively volunteered for approximately 20 years with organizations such as Toastmasters International, where I held various leadership roles with distinction.
I certify that I am sixty years of age or older and a Simi Valley resident. I understand that if selected and appointed as a COA Executive Board Member, I will serve as a volunteer and at the pleasure of the City Council. As a volunteer, I understand that I am not covered by the City's insurance policy and, further, that the City's liability does not encompass volunteers.
12. Signature
Jamuna Ramnath
Thank you,
City of Simi Valley, CA
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