Submit Date: Jan 10, 2023
Email Address
First Name Middle Initial Last Name
Street Address
City State Postal Code
Primary Phone Alternate Phone
Employer Job Title
Application for appointment and background information for City of Stockton Boards, Commissions, and Committees
Profile
Ethnicity
Gender
What district do you live in? *
District 5
I declare under penalty of disqualification/termination that I have been a resident at the above address for years/months?
2 years
The City of Stockton uses email as the preferred method of communication regarding your application. Is this acceptable to you?
Yes No
Employer Address
Gurneel S Boparai
Stockton CA
Gurneel S Boparai
Attachment A
Are you currently serving on a City of Stockton Board, Commission, or Committee? Yes No
Which Boards would you like to apply for?
Planning Commission: Submitted
Question applies to multiple boards
NOTE: This Board requires membership with one of the following groups. If none, please remove board from your application. Are you knowledgeable, have experience in, or extensive background in any of the following areas? Select all that apply. * Active in community activities significant enough to confirm knowledge of issues and individuals within the community
Knowledge of new artistic & design expressions
Possess decision-making abilities
Understanding of Ethnic/Gender Diversity
Willingness to tolerate/promote change
I have been a resident of Stockton for at least 3 years.
Yes No
Interests & Experiences
Please tell us about yourself and why you want to serve.
Growing up, I spent many weekends and even school days working alongside my father at our family business on Charter Way. When we acquired our business, the previous owner, David Atwater, told us he could no longer compete with the increasing presence of mega-corporations in our city despite having originally developed the location decades ago in the 1970s. Time after time, I have seen countless local businesses succumb to the same pressures. Over the years, I have stood alongside many small business owners to lobby for permits and licenses as well as challenging proposals that would negatively their business. From grocery stores, department stores, smoke shops, liquor stores, restaurants, small trucking companies, and farming operations, virtually every industry has felt the impact of crushing corporate competition and legislation. Despite the grandeur of their entrances, they have left employees with lower wages or benefits than what was once provided by local owners, they have left buildings vacant after out- spending and pushing out local competition, and most over they have put an end to the American Dream for many. However, not all corporations are alike, there are those that allow for local investment, those that emphasize employee development and retention, and most over that give back to our local community. Without a singular demeanor, this threat cannot be simply labeled to a single group, this threat Gurneel S Boparai
Attachment A
can only be avoided with dedicated service to our local economy and community. This realization ignited my passion to remain involved and aware of affairs at the city, county, state, and federal levels of government. The very inception of this realization also led me to grow close to my community at a young age. I began volunteering with the Stockton Sikh Temple at the age of twelve years old, starting by serving hot meals at Sunday Service and afterwards to the homeless in South Stockton. Much of the youth realized that this was not enough, so we began to mobilize food distribution on a bi-weekly basis and clothing drives during the winter months alongside Saint Mary’s Dinning Hall. This service has been on-going now for well over a decade through the Sikh Pantry, those that grew up conducting this service have seen how the homeless have been impacted over the years due to various economic and social issues. I personally have realized how crucial it is to provide familial, addiction remedial, and youth services in order to prevent our community members from slipping into homelessness. Many of those in need have been cut off from their families, often due to drug abuse issues, or have lost their source of income with no family or support system to help them transition into new employment. The unfortunate presence of intoxicates in our community also has a deeply negative impact on our youth, putting them at greater risk of incarceration, unemployment, and potential homelessness. With proper services for our youth, we can ensure that they are shielded from negative influences and are properly developed for stable careers in our local economy. I believe the best way to do so is by investing in community members that are truly committed to providing these services through their organization or non-profit via various grants that are made available, as seen on the Community Development Committee. However, funding is not always available for all of these organizations and must be maximized by facilitating community-wide collaborations to avoid replicating services. My service with the Stockton Sikh Temple also began with serving asylum seekers that sheltered at the Temple. When they would first come and wait for their work permits, they would take jobs with local farmers, a trend that has been ongoing since the 1880s. Many of these asylum seekers would tell me how thankful they were for sheltering at the Temple as many other agricultural workers lived in camps of worn mobile homes and recreational vehicles. My grandfather would tell me how his uncle faced similar working conditions when he migrated to work on Californian railroads, levees, and farms in the late 19th century. We are well into the 21st century, yet those that put our food on our table experience unhealthy living and working conditions. To tackle this problem, it is crucial to support organizations like California Rural Legal Assistance and the Western Farm Workers Association to expedite work permit applications and serve farm worker camps with much needed resources. Expediting work permits for asylum seekers liberates them from limited work opportunities that may force them into lower pay and extensive work hours that can conflict with their immigration proceedings. As I have worked on my family farms in the Delta, I have seen how corporate powers are moving to automate the various stages in agricultural production, ultimately pushing out these farm laborers. As I have worked hand-in-hand with the irrigation agency and reclamation districts representing my family farms, I have also learned how water scarcity has benefited those corporations with mega-farms and major stakes in local water projects, forcing smaller family farms and their laborers to wither in man-made droughts. We must empower all forms of our workforce to garner the technical expertise that will be needed as agriculture becomes more high-tech and to develop infrastructure to meet the state’s ever increasing water demand. We must also be aware of the technical difficulties our current water systems experience, so we can properly advocate for improvements in infrastructure that reduces flooding, strengthens our levees, promotes storm water capture, provides clean drinking and environmental water for our community. Recently, I had the opportunity to staff Assemblymember Carlos Villapudua in both his district and capitol offices, focusing on community engagement, constituent casework, as well as legislative affairs for the Agriculture Committee; Transportation Committee; Jobs, Economic Development, and the Economy Committee; and the Water, Parks, and Wildlife Committee. At the start of the Assemblymember’s first term, tackling the COVID-19 pandemic was our top priority.
Based on constituent reporting, I took lead in dealing with issues related to unemployment claims, short- term disability claims, and the state’s Economic Development Department. Over the course of a couple months, I was able to assist almost two thousand constituents in getting their payments, preventing many from entering into homelessness. The Jobs, Economic Development, and the Economy Committee named me as third most effective EDD claims processor in the state, even outpacing the automated bot created for the department as reported by KTVU Fox. As I worked on similar district related matters, I remained just as dedicated to legislative efforts in any of my free time. I took on authoring and mobilizing a lobby of numerous small farmers, UC scientists and innovators for my own bill AB2412 to advance hi- tech irrigation systems for small farming operations that would save nearly a million acre-feet of water annually, all without the assistance of the Office of Legislative Council. I also worked on reviewing potential funding from the federal Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. I was able to identify, mobilize Gurneel S Boparai
Attachment A
constituents, and lobby for funding directed to the CalTrans Safe Streets Program, ultimately securing $20 million to bolster public safety on the Miracle Mile. These experiences demonstrated the power that arises when our constituents are united to conquer a common cause for the greater good of all. Much work remains to support our local agricultural and infrastructure systems, I hope by furthering my service I can continue to mobilize our constituents to achieve additional legislative and fiscal victories. I hope by serving on the Planning Commission and/or the Community Development Committee I can continue my dedication and service to my community. The planning commission serves a crucial role in our city and for our community, impacting the physical development of an area, from the infrastructure to the local economy and social welfare. To maximize the impact of the physical developments in our city, community development initiatives are needed to assist the homeless achieve security that aligns with the developments overseen by the planning commission. By providing access to education, job training, and financial assistance, homeless individuals can take steps towards achieving self-sufficiency, bettering our city’s chances at long-term economic stability. Communities that have engaging leaders, platforms, and programs help all that reside in our city by supporting safety in our communities, economic development, and the homeless who unfortunately reside people, ultimately maintaining a safe society and helping those in need. I believe my past experiences and my dedication to the City of Stockton will bring the engagement required to achieve betterment for our communities.
Please state the reason you would like to be a member of this board/commission.
The planning commission serves as an important role in our city and for our community. It has a direct effect on the physical development of an area, from the infrastructure to the local economy and even social welfare. As a planning commissioner one must be knowledgeable of local planning principles, such as zoning, subdivision, historic preservation, and environmental protection. This includes an understanding of The Stockton Municipal Code (SMC), especially the Development Code (SMC Title 16) which is used to implement the Stockton General Plan as well as other codes and plans relevant to development of the city. They must be well versed in the application process and possess the ability to evaluate potential impacts of development and ensuring compliance with the SMC. This includes the understanding of the various permitting processes that occur within the city and those that must be approved by the planning commission such as those under for Buildings and Construction (SMC Title 15), Business Licenses and Regulation (SMC Title 5), and so forth. Often, various permits and developments come before the planning commission prior to reaching the City Council, place a great responsibility on commissioners to ensure the approval, or denial of a development or permit adheres to the rules and regulations of the city. This includes researching applicable laws, educating the public on said laws, attending and contributing to public meetings, participating in research and surveys, reviewing applications, making recommendations to the governing board, and implementing decisions. Additionally, they should remain current on national and regional issues that may affect their jurisdiction. A planning commissioner is also responsible for working with both residents and developers to promote responsible growth and development. This involves engaging in community outreach efforts to seek public input, attending public hearings to present research, and mediating disputes between homeowners and developers. The commissioner should serve as an advocate for the community by championing the most beneficial and equitable outcomes. Paired with proper civic service, our Planning commission can have a positive impact on our community, however negligent service can also have negative impacts. On the positive side, planning commissions can help shape areas in a positive manner. For example, if done correctly, they can create infrastructure that promotes economic growth, provide affordable housing, and promote public health. These effects are beneficial for everyone living in the area, including those who don't benefit directly from the projects. Planning commissions also tend to bring about improvements in the aesthetics of a city by promoting green space, quality architecture and well-designed public spaces.
These efforts require the planning commissioner to work alongside city staff and elected officials to make proper policy decisions, to help make improvements to public or private developments. This can include working with Franchises (SMC Title 11) contracted by the city, such as the electric, gas, or telephone franchises to expand public services to a new development. At the same time, planning commissions can have a negative impact when they do not take into account citizen needs and interests. This can lead to projects that displace existing communities or push out low-income families. In addition, poorly planned infrastructure can lead to traffic congestion, declining air and water quality, and an overall negative environment. This has been seen by the City of Stockton, only recently resolved over the recent years through the completion of three phases of an Inconsistency Review between the Zoning Code, Citywide Zoning Map, and General Plan Land Use Map, eliminate complex and contradicting land use Gurneel S Boparai
Attachment A
designations. It is clear that planning commissions have the potential to be either beneficial or detrimental to the development of an area. To maximize its positive impacts, the planning process must remain open and attentive to all voices in the community, from decision makers to residents. By ensuring that the public's interests are being heard and respected, the planning commission can work toward creating a better future for everyone in the community. Similar to the City’s Planning Commission, the Community Development Committee takes direction from The City of Stockton’s General Plan, specifically to promote community development, which can include housing, public infrastructure, transportation, arts, and historical preservation. The Community Development Committee must evaluate Housing Department data for project funding, review applications for Housing and Urban Development grants, and assess activities, needs, and support required for the city’s communities. Committee members must work closely with the City of Stockton Community Development Department to manage housing policies and regulation. This includes the current Shape Stockton policy, which focuses on creating neighborhood action plans for the South Airport Corridor, Little Manila & Gleason Park, Downtown Stockton, Miracle Mile, and the Stockton Channel to remove barriers to housing construction and improve zoning consistencies. Committee members must also work with the Economic Development Department’s Housing Division to administer funding through programs that create safe, sound, and affordable housing for Stockton residents.
Furthermore, community development initiatives and programs that help those struggling to find affordable housing can be incredibly beneficial in terms of long-term economic stability. Many individuals who are barely making ends meet are trying to make a better life for themselves and their families but lack the necessary resources to do so. By providing access to education, job training, and especially financial assistance, these individuals can take steps towards achieving self-sufficiency. Other programs, such as the DTA Parking Authority or the Bike Plan, can help facilitate the development of mixed-use, high density affordable housing by subsidizing the supply of public infrastructure and transportation to meet the ever-increasing demand. Collaborating with similar local agencies, like the San Joaquin County Housing Authority, can help maximize funds for affordable housing projects and eliminate redundancies in policies. Other plans, such as the Art Plan, can help provide meaning employment in our community while elevate the artistic expressions of our residents Housing and Urban Development grants can also help address homelessness and have a great impact in our society. Communities that have programs and support systems available to help people who are living on the streets are essential for maintaining a safe society and helping those in need. Serving the homeless is an act of kindness and compassion, as it ensures that everyone in the community has access to basic necessities such as food and shelter.
Additionally, engaging in community service activities to help the homeless can also help break down negative stereotypes of homelessness and inspire the rest of the community to use their own resources and networks to make a positive impact. Grants from the HUD can also be directed to assist local non- profit so long as they meet the grant criteria and are selected. Non-profits are generally better at serving the homeless than the government because they are typically better equipped to address the unique needs of this vulnerable population. Non-profits operate on a more localized level, which allows them to provide tailored services and resources to the homeless more efficiently than government entities that may have more bureaucratic red tape. They are better able to identify and respond to gaps in services and support, as well as innovate new strategies and approaches to better their services. Additionally, non- profits often rely on community volunteers and partnerships, which allows them to maximize their budget and do more with less. Furthermore, non-profit organizations have an intimate relationship with the homeless population due to their committed service. This allows them to better understand the needs of those in need and create meaningful and impactful change. Ultimately, the planning commissioner serves a key role in the local government by helping shape the future of the community. By utilizing sound research and analysis, actively engaging the community, and applying a fair and balanced approach, the commissioner can guide the development of a better, more livable community for all. Subsequently, community development, serving the homeless, promoting safe transportation, funding affordable housing, supporting the arts and culture are vital components of creating a flourishing and just society. By providing access to vital resources, breaking down stigmas, and fostering strong relationships, we can ensure that everyone has the opportunity to live safe, productive lives.
Have you served on an advisory group before?
Yes No
Gurneel S Boparai
Attachment A
Upload a Resume
How did you hear about the position?
I have been aware of the existence of the planning commission over my years of lobbying for the community. I also have been involved in local elections since my middle school years. With the recent election to our local city council, I was aware that commission and committee seats would be vacated.
City Council Policy 100-2 states that Commissioners are required to attend meetings on a regular basis. If appointed, will you be able to attend meetings regularly and devote the time necessary to fulfill your duties as a member?
Yes No
Do you or immediate family members have any relationship (professional, financial, other) that may present a potential conflict of interest for this advisory group? Yes No
Background Information
Based on your best judgment, does this Commission make decisions that may affect any sources of income, interests in real property, or investments of you or your spouse? Yes No
Voter Registration (Questions appear if required)
Submit Application
Enter Your Initials:
GB
Date Signed
1/10/2023
Gurneel S Boparai
Attachment A
Submit Date: Dec 21, 2022
Email Address
First Name Middle Initial Last Name
Street Address
City State Postal Code
Primary Phone Alternate Phone
Employer Job Title Occupation
Application for appointment and background information for City of Stockton Boards, Commissions, and Committees
Profile
Ethnicity
Gender
What district do you live in? *
District 4
I declare under penalty of disqualification/termination that I have been a resident at the above address for years/months?
1 The City of Stockton uses email as the preferred method of communication regarding your application. Is this acceptable to you?
Yes No
Employer Address
Wesley T Hull Jr.
Stockton CA
Wesley T Hull Jr.
Attachment A
Are you currently serving on a City of Stockton Board, Commission, or Committee? Yes No
Which Boards would you like to apply for?
Planning Commission: Submitted
Question applies to multiple boards
NOTE: This Board requires membership with one of the following groups. If none, please remove board from your application. Are you knowledgeable, have experience in, or extensive background in any of the following areas? Select all that apply. * Active in community activities significant enough to confirm knowledge of issues and individuals within the community
I have been a resident of Stockton for at least 3 years.
Yes No
Interests & Experiences
Please tell us about yourself and why you want to serve.
I was born in Stockton and attended Mable Barron, Lincoln Middle School and graduated from Lincoln High School. The only time have spent away from Stockton was during college for four years when in earned my degree in Urban Regional Planning and Development. I'm a past president of the Rotary Club of Stockton and in Rotary I've done many things to serve this community. Since I was born and raised in Stockton I feel that it is important for me to serve this Community and do anything I can do make it a better place to raise my two kids in.
Please state the reason you would like to be a member of this board/commission.
I have lived in Stockton for nearly my entire life and feel I have a good understanding what our city needs in regard to leadership and direction. If I can serve the community on this board, I would hopefully doing my small part improving Stockton in the future.
Have you served on an advisory group before?
Yes No
Wesley T Hull Jr.
Attachment A
How did you hear about the position?
Council Person elect Michael Blower
City Council Policy 100-2 states that Commissioners are required to attend meetings on a regular basis. If appointed, will you be able to attend meetings regularly and devote the time necessary to fulfill your duties as a member?
Yes No
Do you or immediate family members have any relationship (professional, financial, other) that may present a potential conflict of interest for this advisory group? Yes No
Background Information
Based on your best judgment, does this Commission make decisions that may affect any sources of income, interests in real property, or investments of you or your spouse? Yes No
Voter Registration (Questions appear if required)
Submit Application
Enter Your Initials:
WTH
Date Signed
12/21/2022
Wesley T Hull Jr.
Attachment A
Submit Date: Dec 20, 2022
Email Address
First Name Middle Initial Last Name
Street Address
City State Postal Code
Primary Phone Alternate Phone
Employer Job Title Occupation
Application for appointment and background information for City of Stockton Boards, Commissions, and Committees
Profile
Ethnicity
Gender
What district do you live in? *
District 4
I declare under penalty of disqualification/termination that I have been a resident at the above address for years/months?
40 months
The City of Stockton uses email as the preferred method of communication regarding your application. Is this acceptable to you?
Yes No
Employer Address
Greg M Thompson
Stockton CA
Greg M Thompson
Attachment A
Are you currently serving on a City of Stockton Board, Commission, or Committee? Yes No
Which Boards would you like to apply for?
Planning Commission: Submitted
Question applies to multiple boards
NOTE: This Board requires membership with one of the following groups. If none, please remove board from your application. Are you knowledgeable, have experience in, or extensive background in any of the following areas? Select all that apply. * Active in community activities significant enough to confirm knowledge of issues and individuals within the community
Possess decision-making abilities
I have been a resident of Stockton for at least 3 years.
Yes No
Interests & Experiences
Please tell us about yourself and why you want to serve.
I was born and raised in Stockton and attended local schools. I am now raising my family in Stockton. I have a deep connection and admiration for the City and want to be in a position to give back and serve in the community.
Please state the reason you would like to be a member of this board/commission.
I have a significant amount of interest and knowledge in real estate and development. I would like to see that the City of Stockton continues to pursue opportunities that benefits its citizens and positions Stockton as a premier location in California.
Have you served on an advisory group before?
Yes No
Greg M Thompson
Attachment A
Upload a Resume
If yes, please explain.
N/A
How did you hear about the position?
EJ Rogers / California Materials, Inc and Mayor Kevin Lincoln.
City Council Policy 100-2 states that Commissioners are required to attend meetings on a regular basis. If appointed, will you be able to attend meetings regularly and devote the time necessary to fulfill your duties as a member?
Yes No
Do you or immediate family members have any relationship (professional, financial, other) that may present a potential conflict of interest for this advisory group? Yes No
If yes, please explain
N/A
Background Information
Based on your best judgment, does this Commission make decisions that may affect any sources of income, interests in real property, or investments of you or your spouse? Yes No
Voter Registration (Questions appear if required)
Submit Application
Enter Your Initials:
GT
Date Signed
12/19/2022
Greg M Thompson
Attachment A
Submit Date: Jan 11, 2023
Email Address
First Name Middle Initial Last Name
Street Address
City State Postal Code
Primary Phone Alternate Phone
Application for appointment and background information for City of Stockton Boards, Commissions, and Committees
Profile
Ethnicity
Gender
What district do you live in? *
District 1
I declare under penalty of disqualification/termination that I have been a resident at the above address for years/months?
17 years
The City of Stockton uses email as the preferred method of communication regarding your application. Is this acceptable to you?
Yes No
Are you currently serving on a City of Stockton Board, Commission, or Committee? Yes No
Rajan M Nathaniel
Stockton CA
Rajan M Nathaniel
Attachment A
Which Boards would you like to apply for?
Planning Commission: Submitted
Question applies to multiple boards
NOTE: This Board requires membership with one of the following groups. If none, please remove board from your application. Are you knowledgeable, have experience in, or extensive background in any of the following areas? Select all that apply. * Active in community activities significant enough to confirm knowledge of issues and individuals within the community
Possess decision-making abilities
Understanding of Ethnic/Gender Diversity
Willingness to tolerate/promote change
I have been a resident of Stockton for at least 3 years.
Yes No
Interests & Experiences
Please tell us about yourself and why you want to serve.
I was born and raised in Stockton, California, and attribute my experiences here as a key component of my identity. Here I would learn the meaning of community from city residents, explore the foundations of knowledge through public education, and discover my desire for public service by witnessing civic engagement in action. Simply, my desire to serve Stockton derives from a passion to give back the community that made me who I am. As we prepare for our locality to become the best city in America to live, raise a family, and grow a business, I seek to contribute my talents and aptitudes in pursuit of this vision. My educational background includes degrees from San Joaquin Delta College and Stanford University, and my professional experience ranges from government service to the private sector. This includes, but is not limited to, a previous board appointment by Stockton City Council, a role in Mayor Kevin Lincoln’s administration, and a senior advisor position to a former prime minister.
Rajan M Nathaniel
Attachment A
Please state the reason you would like to be a member of this board/commission.
Planning Commission: Effective city planning remains essential to achieve our collective goal of becoming the best city in America to live, raise a family, and grow a business. Specifically, zoning laws, permitting regulations, environmental standards, project analysis, and administering the general plan play a central role in the growth of Stockton. Community Development Committee: Reviewing Department of Housing and Urban Development applications for Community Development funds and providing project funding recommendations are also critical to our municipal development effort. I seek an appointment to these two entities to contribute my experiences towards building a better designed, more equitable municipality. The decisions made within this governing body directly mold the lives of Stocktonians present and future; for this reason, I can think of no better vector by which to serve this community.
Have you served on an advisory group before?
Yes No
If yes, please explain.
California Correctional Health Care Services Citizens Advisory Committee (2019-2021) City Council Policy 100-2 states that Commissioners are required to attend meetings on a regular basis. If appointed, will you be able to attend meetings regularly and devote the time necessary to fulfill your duties as a member?
Yes No
Do you or immediate family members have any relationship (professional, financial, other) that may present a potential conflict of interest for this advisory group? Yes No
Background Information
Based on your best judgment, does this Commission make decisions that may affect any sources of income, interests in real property, or investments of you or your spouse? Yes No
Voter Registration (Questions appear if required)
Submit Application
Rajan M Nathaniel
Attachment A
Enter Your Initials:
RN
Date Signed
12/27/22
Rajan M Nathaniel
Attachment A