Form Name: Boards and Commissions Application
Unique ID: 1328402659
Applicant Information
Name Aaron J Terry
Are you a Sunnyvale resident? Yes
How long have you lived in
Sunnyvale?
2 years
Description Area Residence Notice:Unless otherwise noted, your principal place of residence must be in Sunnyvale. You must live in Sunnyvale at the time of appointment and at all times during service on a board or commission.
Current Main Residence
Email
Phone
Are you currently a registered
voter in Sunnyvale?
Yes
When was the last time you
voted? Month/Year
November 2024
Have you ever served on a City of
Sunnyvale board or commission?
No
Have you attended a meeting of
the City Council, or a board or
commission?
No
Have you attended meetings of
the board(s) or commission(s) for
which you are applying?
No
Board or Commission Selection
First Choice Human Relations Commission
Apply for another board or
commission?1
Yes
Second Choice Sustainability Commission
Apply for another board or
commission?2
Yes
Aaron Terry
Office Use Only
Date Received:
__________
Voter registration
verified:
Office Use Only
Date Received: __________
Voter registration verified:
On: ___________________
By: ___________________
Date Received:
Voter registration verified:
By: ___________________
3/26/25
4/3/25
I D
Third Choice Heritage Preservation Commission (R)
Apply for another board or
commission?3
Yes
Fourth Choice Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Commission Apply for another board or
commission?4
Yes
Fifth Choice Parks and Recreation Commission (R)
Apply for another board or
commission?5
Yes
Sixth Choice Housing and Human Services Commission
Applicant Qualifications
What motivated you to apply for
this board or commission?
My motivation stems from a deep commitment to public service and a desire to contribute to the financial well-being of Sunnyvale.
My experience managing multi-million dollar budgets within the Air Force, coupled with my academic background in Social Psychology, provides me with a unique perspective on balancing fiscal responsibility with community needs. I'm eager to contribute to the city's continued progress by serving on this board. My experience in strategic planning, project management, and resource allocation within the Air Force has equipped me with the skills to tackle complex challenges.
What skills or attributes can you
bring to this board or
commission?
I bring a diverse skillset honed through 20 years of military leadership and management experience: Strategic Planning and Resource Allocation; Analytical and Problem-Solving Skills; Collaboration and Teamwork; Policy and Procedure Adherence; and a Commitment to Public Service.
Aaron Terry
The primary role of a board or
commission member is to provide
advice to City Council on policy
issues that are within the scope
of the board or commission. What
steps would you take to
effectively exercise this specific
board or commission role?
1. Thorough Research and Preparation: I would diligently research the issues, gathering data, understanding regulations, and considering the community impact of policy decisions.
2. Active Listening and Engagement: I would actively listen to diverse perspectives from community members, stakeholders, and fellow board members.
3. Collaborative Problem-Solving: I would work collaboratively with other board members to develop well-informed
recommendations.
4. Clear and Concise Communication: I would communicate my findings and recommendations to the City Council clearly and concisely, supporting my positions with evidence.
5. Continuous Learning: I would stay abreast of best practices and emerging trends.
Education – List college degrees,
majors and any relevant training
or experience that demonstrates
your ability to effectively serve
on this board or commission.
Bachelor of Science in Social Psychology (Summa Cum Laude),
3.9 GPA, Park University, Parkville, MO
Associate of Science in Social Psychology (Summa Cum Laude), Park University, Parkville, MO
20 years of military leadership and management experience, including strategic planning, budgeting, risk management, policy compliance, and investigations.
Describe your involvement in
community activities, volunteer
and civic organizations.
I am currently the Vice President of the 129th Rescue Wing's Company Grade Officers Council, where I work to support and advocate for my fellow officers. I am passionate about progressing the military forward and have actively sought opportunities to contribute to positive change within the organization. My personal mission statement reflects this commitment: "To serve as a trustworthy, caring, respectful, responsive, curious, and inclusive leader by encouraging innovative ideas and forward-thinking so that our team can create purpose-driven solutions that will improve the lives of others." While my military service has often required relocation, I am here to stay and I am eager to become an active member of the Sunnyvale community and contribute my time and skills.
Description Area The City has a Code of Ethics and Conduct for Elected and Appointed Officials and an Attendance Policy (7.2.19), 2 G (II) that appointed members are required to follow.
Do you have any concerns related
to the above code and policy?
No
Aaron Terry
Are you willing to accept a
temporary appointment for the
remainder of an unexpired term?
Yes
Board or Commission-Specific Questions
Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Commission
Category One: I am a bicyclist or
pedestrian residing in Sunnyvale.
Yes
Aaron Terry
Like many Santa Clara County
cities, Sunnyvale is faced with
problems stemming from traffic
congestion and air pollution.
Suggest ways the City can
improve facilities for bicyclists
and pedestrians. Also, how might
the City improve education and
safety programs for motorists,
bicyclists and pedestrians?
As a prospective board/commission member, I recognize that traffic congestion and air pollution are significant challenges for Sunnyvale, as they are for many cities in Santa Clara County.
Improving facilities for bicyclists and pedestrians, along with enhancing education and safety programs for all road users, are crucial steps towards mitigating these issues.
Here are some suggestions for Sunnyvale to consider:
Improving Facilities for Bicyclists and Pedestrians:
Expand and Enhance Bike Lanes and Paths: Prioritize the creation of protected bike lanes separated from vehicle traffic, ensuring they are well-maintained, clearly marked, and connect key destinations like schools, parks, shopping centers, and transit hubs. Consider expanding existing bike paths and creating new ones where feasible, particularly along high-traffic corridors.
Improve Pedestrian Infrastructure: Widen sidewalks, install more pedestrian crossings with accessible ramps, enhance lighting in pedestrian areas, and implement traffic calming measures like speed bumps and roundabouts in residential neighborhoods.
Prioritize pedestrian safety, especially in areas with high foot traffic.
Increase Bike Parking: Provide secure and convenient bike parking options throughout the city, including at public transit stations, commercial areas, and public facilities. Explore options like covered bike racks, bike lockers, and bike share programs.
Integrate Bicycle and Pedestrian Planning: Develop a
comprehensive bicycle and pedestrian plan that considers the needs of all users and integrates with the city's overall transportation strategy. Engage the community in the planning process to ensure the plan reflects the needs and priorities of residents.
Improving Education and Safety Programs:
Targeted Education Campaigns: Launch public awareness
campaigns focused on safe driving practices, bicycle safety, and pedestrian awareness. Utilize various channels, including social media, public service announcements, and community events, to reach a broad audience.
Enhanced Enforcement: Increase enforcement of traffic laws related to speeding, distracted driving, and yielding to pedestrians and bicyclists. Consider implementing targeted enforcement campaigns in high-risk areas.
School-Based Programs: Partner with local schools to implement bicycle and pedestrian safety education programs for children and youth. Promote safe routes to school initiatives and encourage active transportation.
Community Workshops and Training: Offer free or low-cost bicycle Aaron Terry
safety workshops and pedestrian safety training for residents of all ages. Provide resources and information on safe practices and traffic laws.
Data-Driven Approach: Collect and analyze data on bicycle and pedestrian accidents to identify high-risk locations and patterns.
Use this data to inform infrastructure improvements and targeted safety initiatives.
Collaboration with Regional Partners: Collaborate with other cities in Santa Clara County and regional transportation agencies to share best practices and develop coordinated safety programs.
By investing in these improvements, Sunnyvale can create a safer and more accessible environment for bicyclists and pedestrians, encouraging active transportation, reducing traffic congestion, and improving air quality. My experience in strategic planning, resource allocation, and promoting a culture of safety within the military would allow me to contribute effectively to these efforts.
Aaron Terry
Description Area View the Active Transportation Plan
Have you read the Active
Transportation Plan?
No
Description Area View the Vision Zero Plan
Have you read the Vision Zero
Plan?
No
Heritage Preservation Commission
Describe how you have engaged
with local history and heritage
within Sunnyvale?
While my background primarily lies in military service, I have a deep appreciation for local history and heritage.
What historical features or
structures in our community do
you think are at risk? What
course can the City take to
preserve them?
Although I am relatively new to Sunnyvale, I am eager to learn more about the city's rich past and contribute to its preservation.
Aaron Terry
What factors would influence
your recommendation to preserve
a particular building or site?
My recommendation to preserve a particular building or site would be influenced by a combination of factors, carefully considered in a balanced and thoughtful approach:
Historical Significance: The primary factor would be the building or site's historical significance. This includes its association with important events, individuals, or movements in local, regional, or national history. The depth and breadth of this significance would be a key consideration.
Architectural Merit: The architectural style, design, integrity, and craftsmanship of the building would be evaluated. Is it representative of a particular period or style? Does it possess unique architectural features? Has it been significantly altered or maintained its original character?
Cultural Value: The building or site's contribution to the cultural heritage of the community would be assessed. This encompasses its role in the community's identity, traditions, and artistic expression.
Community Impact: The potential impact of preservation on the surrounding community, including economic, social, and
environmental factors, would be carefully considered. This involves understanding the views and needs of residents and stakeholders.
Feasibility of Preservation: The practical aspects of preservation, including the structural integrity of the building, the cost of restoration and maintenance, and the availability of funding, would be evaluated. A realistic assessment of the long-term sustainability of preservation efforts is essential.
Legal and Regulatory Framework: Existing laws, regulations, and designations related to historic preservation at the local, state, and national levels would be taken into account.
I believe a thorough and objective analysis of these factors, informed by expert opinion and community input, is crucial for making responsible and well-informed preservation decisions.
Housing and Human Services Commission
Aaron Terry
Evaluate the quality and
adequacy of the housing
programs that serve the
Sunnyvale community.
Evaluating the quality and adequacy of housing programs serving Sunnyvale requires a comprehensive approach considering various factors and engaging with diverse stakeholders. Here's how I would approach this evaluation:
Data Collection and Analysis:
Quantitative Data: Gather data on key metrics such as the number of affordable housing units available, average rent and home prices, vacancy rates, waitlist times for subsidized housing, and the demographics of those served by housing programs.
Sources could include the U.S. Census Bureau, HUD, city reports, and local housing agencies.
Qualitative Data: Conduct surveys, interviews, and focus groups with residents, housing program participants, service providers, and community organizations to understand their experiences and perspectives on the effectiveness and accessibility of housing programs. This would provide valuable insights into the strengths and weaknesses of existing programs.
Program Evaluation:
Effectiveness: Assess the extent to which housing programs are achieving their intended outcomes, such as reducing
homelessness, increasing housing affordability, and improving housing quality. Examine program design, implementation, and outcomes data to identify areas for improvement.
Accessibility: Evaluate how accessible housing programs are to those who need them most, considering factors such as eligibility criteria, application processes, language accessibility, and cultural sensitivity. Identify barriers to access and recommend strategies to improve inclusivity.
Efficiency: Analyze the cost-effectiveness of housing programs and identify opportunities to optimize resource utilization and improve program efficiency.
Community Needs Assessment:
Current Needs: Analyze current housing needs in Sunnyvale, considering factors such as population growth, demographic shifts, and economic conditions. Identify gaps in services and unmet needs.
Future Needs: Project future housing needs based on anticipated growth and changing demographics. Develop strategies to proactively address future challenges.
Best Practices Review:
Research: Research best practices in housing program design and implementation from other communities and organizations.
Identify innovative approaches that could be adapted to the Sunnyvale context.
Benchmarking: Compare Sunnyvale's housing programs to those of similar communities to identify areas where Sunnyvale is excelling and areas where improvement is needed.
Stakeholder Engagement:
Aaron Terry
Collaboration: Collaborate with city staff, housing agencies, community organizations, and residents to gather input, share findings, and develop recommendations. Foster a collaborative approach to address housing challenges.
Community Input: Ensure that community members, especially those directly impacted by housing programs, have a voice in the evaluation process and the development of solutions.
By employing this comprehensive and collaborative approach, I believe a thorough and meaningful evaluation of Sunnyvale's housing programs can be conducted, leading to informed
recommendations for improvement and ensuring that all
residents have access to safe, affordable, and quality housing.
My analytical skills, experience in program evaluation, and commitment to serving the community would enable me to
contribute effectively to this important work.
Aaron Terry
Evaluate the quality and
availability of the human services
programs that serve the
Sunnyvale community.
Evaluating the quality and availability of human services programs in Sunnyvale requires a comprehensive and
community-centered approach. Here's how I would proceed:
Identify Existing Programs: First, create a comprehensive inventory of all human services programs operating within Sunnyvale. This includes programs offered by the city, county, non-profit organizations, and faith-based institutions. Categorize them by service area (e.g., mental health, senior services, food assistance, disability services).
Assess Community Needs: Conduct a thorough needs assessment to understand the specific human services needs of the
Sunnyvale community. This involves:
Data Analysis: Analyze demographic data, poverty rates, unemployment statistics, public health reports, and other relevant data to identify vulnerable populations and areas of high need.
Community Input: Gather input from residents, community leaders, service providers, and those directly using human services through surveys, interviews, focus groups, and public forums. This qualitative data provides crucial insights into lived experiences and unmet needs.
Evaluate Program Quality: Assess the quality of existing programs based on established standards and best practices. This includes:
Effectiveness: Do programs achieve their stated goals and objectives? Measure outcomes and impact using data and
feedback.
Accessibility: Are programs easily accessible to all who need them? Consider location, transportation, hours of operation, language accessibility, cultural competency, and eligibility requirements.
Efficiency: Are programs operating efficiently and utilizing resources effectively? Review administrative costs and service delivery models.
Client Satisfaction: Gather feedback from program participants regarding their experiences and satisfaction with services.
Analyze Availability and Gaps: Compare the identified community needs with the available services to pinpoint gaps and areas where services are lacking or insufficient. Consider:
Geographic Distribution: Are services evenly distributed throughout Sunnyvale, or are there underserved areas?
Duplication of Services: Are there instances of service duplication, and could resources be better allocated?
Waiting Lists: Are there long waiting lists for certain programs, indicating a need for increased capacity?
Benchmarking and Best Practices: Research and compare
Sunnyvale's human services programs with those in similar communities. Identify best practices and innovative approaches Aaron Terry
that could be adopted to improve service delivery.
Collaboration and Partnerships: Foster collaboration and communication between different service providers to avoid duplication, streamline services, and create a more integrated and effective human services network.
Recommendations and Reporting: Based on the evaluation findings, develop specific and actionable recommendations for improving the quality, availability, and accessibility of human services in Sunnyvale. Present these recommendations in a clear and concise report to the relevant stakeholders, including the City Council and the community.
Aaron Terry
Share your thoughts on how the
City might better improve
housing affordability, prevent
displacement and serve our
unhoused residents.
Improving housing affordability, preventing displacement, and effectively serving unhoused residents are complex,
interconnected challenges requiring a multi-pronged approach.
Here are my thoughts on how Sunnyvale can make progress in these areas:
Housing Affordability:
Increase Housing Supply: A fundamental step is to increase the overall housing supply, particularly for low- and moderate-income households. This includes:
Streamlining the Approval Process: Simplify and expedite the permitting and approval process for new housing developments, particularly those with affordable components.
Incentivizing Affordable Housing Development: Offer density bonuses, tax incentives, and other incentives to developers who build affordable housing units.
Exploring Innovative Housing Models: Consider alternative housing models such as accessory dwelling units (ADUs), co-living arrangements, and modular construction to increase housing options and lower development costs.
Preserve Existing Affordable Housing: Protect existing affordable housing units from being converted to market-rate housing through policies like rent control, inclusionary zoning, and right-of-first-refusal programs.
Rental Assistance Programs: Expand rental assistance programs to help low-income families and individuals afford housing in the private market. Explore voucher programs and direct rental subsidies.
Down Payment Assistance: Provide down payment assistance programs to help first-time homebuyers overcome the financial hurdle of purchasing a home.
Preventing Displacement:
Tenant Protections: Strengthen tenant protections against unjust evictions and unreasonable rent increases. Implement just-cause eviction ordinances and consider rent stabilization measures.
Legal Assistance: Provide legal assistance and resources to tenants facing eviction or other housing-related challenges.
Community Land Trusts: Explore the use of community land trusts (CLTs) to acquire and maintain permanently affordable housing, removing land from the speculative market.
Anti-Displacement Strategies: Develop and implement
anti-displacement strategies targeted at vulnerable communities and neighborhoods at risk of gentrification.
Serving Unhoused Residents:
Increase Shelter Capacity: Expand the availability of emergency shelter beds and transitional housing programs for individuals and Aaron Terry
families experiencing homelessness.
Supportive Services: Provide comprehensive supportive services, including case management, mental health services, substance abuse treatment, and job training, to help unhoused individuals transition to permanent housing.
Housing First Approach: Prioritize a "Housing First" approach that focuses on providing permanent housing to individuals
experiencing homelessness without preconditions, followed by supportive services as needed.
Preventative Measures: Invest in preventative measures such as rapid re-housing programs and eviction prevention services to help individuals and families avoid homelessness in the first place.
Regional Collaboration: Collaborate with neighboring cities and the county to develop regional solutions to address
homelessness, recognizing that this is a shared challenge.
Crucially:
Community Engagement: Engage with residents, community
organizations, and unhoused individuals in developing and implementing solutions. Ensure that the voices of those most affected by housing insecurity are heard and considered.
Data-Driven Approach: Utilize data to track progress, measure outcomes, and identify areas where adjustments are needed.
Regularly evaluate the effectiveness of programs and policies.
Aaron Terry
Description Area View Unhoused Community Support
Have you read Unhoused
Community Support?
No
Human Relations Commission
Category One: I'm a Sunnyvale
resident.
Yes
Aaron Terry
What do you think are major
equity challenges facing the
Sunnyvale community?
While Sunnyvale strives to be an inclusive community, several equity challenges likely require attention. It's important to engage in ongoing dialogue with residents and community organizations to fully understand the nuances of these challenges, but some key areas to consider include:
Housing Affordability and Displacement: As housing costs continue to rise, lower-income residents, including communities of color and immigrant families, face increasing challenges affording to live in Sunnyvale and are at higher risk of displacement. This can lead to segregation and limit access to opportunities.
Educational Equity: Disparities in educational outcomes may exist based on race, ethnicity, socioeconomic status, and other factors.
Ensuring equitable access to quality education, resources, and support services for all students is crucial. This includes addressing achievement gaps and promoting culturally
responsive teaching practices.
Economic Opportunity: Not all residents have equal access to economic opportunities, including well-paying jobs, career advancement, and entrepreneurship. Addressing systemic
barriers to employment and economic mobility for marginalized communities is essential.
Access to Healthcare: Equitable access to quality healthcare services, including mental health care, may be a challenge for some residents. Language barriers, cultural competency of healthcare providers, and affordability can all create obstacles to accessing necessary care.
Language Access: For residents with limited English proficiency, accessing city services, information, and participating fully in civic life can be challenging. Ensuring language access across all city departments and programs is vital for promoting inclusivity.
Cultural Representation and Inclusion: Ensuring that all residents, regardless of their background, feel represented and included in the community is essential. This includes promoting diversity in leadership positions, celebrating cultural traditions, and fostering a welcoming and inclusive environment for all.
Implicit Bias and Discrimination: Addressing implicit bias and discrimination in all its forms, whether in housing, employment, education, or law enforcement, is crucial for creating a truly equitable community. This requires ongoing training, education, and community dialogue.
Access for People with Disabilities: Ensuring that people with disabilities have equal access to housing, transportation, employment, and public spaces is essential for promoting equity and inclusion. This includes adhering to ADA guidelines and proactively addressing accessibility needs.
It's crucial to remember that these challenges are interconnected and require a holistic approach. Gathering data, engaging in open dialogue with affected communities, and collaborating with Aaron Terry
community organizations are essential steps in developing effective strategies to address these equity issues and create a more just and inclusive Sunnyvale for all. My background in social psychology, combined with my experience in leadership and fostering inclusive environments within the military, would equip me to contribute meaningfully to the Human Relations
Commission's work in addressing these important challenges.
Aaron Terry
Describe your experience working
with historically marginalized
communities. How have your
actions benefited these
communities?
My experience working with historically marginalized communities has primarily been within the context of military service. The military is a diverse organization, and I have had the privilege of serving alongside individuals from a wide range of backgrounds, including those from historically underrepresented groups. In my leadership roles, I have strived to create an inclusive environment where everyone feels valued, respected, and empowered to contribute their unique talents. This has involved actively listening to diverse perspectives, addressing issues of bias and discrimination, and promoting opportunities for advancement for all members. While the military context is unique, the principles of inclusivity, equity, and respect are universal.
I also deeply connect with the idea of service to others and the importance of helping those who need it most. My own
background has instilled in me a strong sense of empathy and a commitment to uplifting others. I grew up in challenging circumstances; my mother relied on welfare and we lived in Section 8 housing. I know firsthand the struggles faced by families living in poverty and the importance of having support systems and opportunities to overcome adversity. I was fortunate to have people who believed in me and helped me along the way, and I never forget that I didn't achieve success on my own. This experience has shaped my belief that the meaning of life truly lies in service to others, particularly those who face systemic disadvantages. It has fueled my desire to contribute to creating a more just and equitable society where everyone has the
opportunity to thrive.
While my direct experience working with marginalized
communities outside of the military may be limited, my
commitment to service, my understanding of the challenges faced by those in need, and my dedication to creating a more inclusive society drive my desire to serve on the Human Relations Commission. I am eager to learn from community members, collaborate with local organizations, and contribute to making a positive impact in Sunnyvale.
Park and Recreation Commission
Aaron Terry
Community demographics are
constantly changing. What do
you think are the principal issues
the commission may be
addressing over the next two
years?
Over the next two years, the Parks and Recreation Commission will likely address several key issues related to evolving community demographics:
Meeting the Needs of a Diverse Population: As Sunnyvale's demographics shift, the commission must ensure parks and recreation programs cater to the diverse interests and needs of all residents, considering factors such as age, ethnicity, cultural background, ability, and socioeconomic status. This may involve developing new programs, adapting existing ones, and ensuring equitable access to facilities and resources.
Addressing Increased Demand: Population growth can strain existing park and recreation resources. The commission will need to address increased demand for park space, facilities, and programs. This might involve exploring creative solutions for maximizing the use of existing resources, advocating for park expansion, and prioritizing projects based on community needs.
Maintaining Affordability and Accessibility: Ensuring that parks and recreation programs remain affordable and accessible to all residents, regardless of income level, is crucial. The commission may need to explore strategies for subsidizing programs, offering scholarships, and removing financial barriers to participation.
Accessibility for people with disabilities is also a key consideration.
Promoting Inclusivity and Social Equity: Creating welcoming and inclusive spaces where all residents feel a sense of belonging is essential. The commission can play a role in promoting social equity by ensuring that parks and recreation facilities are distributed equitably throughout the city and that programs are designed to be inclusive of diverse cultural backgrounds and abilities.
Addressing Environmental Sustainability: Incorporating
sustainable practices in park management and development is increasingly important. The commission may need to address issues related to water conservation, energy efficiency, waste reduction, and protecting natural habitats within parks.
Leveraging Technology: Utilizing technology to enhance park and recreation services, such as online registration systems, mobile apps for park information, and virtual programming, can improve efficiency and accessibility.
Community Engagement: Effective community engagement is essential for understanding the needs and priorities of residents.
The commission will need to actively solicit input from diverse community groups, conduct surveys, and hold public forums to ensure that park and recreation decisions reflect the desires of the community.
These are just some of the principal issues the Parks and Recreation Commission may address in the coming years. The ability to adapt to changing demographics, prioritize community Aaron Terry
needs, and embrace innovative solutions will be crucial for ensuring that Sunnyvale's parks and recreation system continues to serve all residents effectively.
Aaron Terry
How could we improve our parks
and recreation infrastructure and
programming to better serve our
diverse community?
Improving parks and recreation infrastructure and programming to better serve a diverse community requires a thoughtful, inclusive, and responsive approach. Here are some key
strategies:
Infrastructure Improvements:
Equitable Distribution of Resources: Assess the current distribution of parks and recreation facilities to identify areas with limited access and prioritize investments in underserved neighborhoods. Ensure all residents have convenient access to quality parks, regardless of their location within the city.
Universal Accessibility: Design and upgrade facilities to ensure they are accessible to people of all abilities. This includes providing ramps, accessible restrooms, adaptive playground equipment, and sensory gardens. Consult with disability advocacy groups to ensure designs meet diverse needs.
Culturally Relevant Design: Incorporate design elements that reflect the cultural heritage and traditions of diverse community groups. This could include public art, community gardens, or spaces for cultural events and celebrations.
Multi-Generational Spaces: Create spaces that cater to the needs of all age groups, from children's playgrounds and youth sports fields to senior centers and community gardens. Design spaces that encourage interaction and connection between generations.
Environmental Sustainability: Prioritize sustainable design and construction practices in park development and renovation projects. Incorporate features such as water-efficient landscaping, solar panels, and green building materials.
Programming Enhancements:
Culturally Diverse Programming: Offer a wide range of programs that reflect the interests and cultural backgrounds of the community. This could include language classes, traditional dance workshops, cultural festivals, and cooking classes.
Inclusive Recreation Programs: Develop adaptive recreation programs for people with disabilities, ensuring they have opportunities to participate in sports, arts, and other recreational activities.
Affordable and Accessible Programs: Offer sliding-scale fees and scholarships to ensure that programs are accessible to
low-income families and individuals. Provide transportation assistance and childcare options to remove barriers to
participation.
Intergenerational Programs: Create programs that bring together people of different ages, fostering community connections and intergenerational understanding.
Community Input and Collaboration: Actively solicit input from diverse community groups and organizations to ensure that Aaron Terry
programs are relevant and responsive to community needs.
Partner with local organizations to co-create and deliver programs.
Outreach and Communication: Promote programs through
culturally appropriate and accessible channels, including multilingual outreach materials, social media, and community events.
By implementing these strategies, Sunnyvale can create a more welcoming, inclusive, and vibrant parks and recreation system that truly serves the needs of its diverse community. My experience in leading diverse teams, managing resources, and promoting inclusivity within the military context would enable me to contribute effectively to these efforts.
Aaron Terry
Sustainability Commission
Category One: I’m a Sunnyvale
resident.
Yes
Aaron Terry
Sustainability is a new and
emerging concern in many
communities. What do you think
are the primary sustainability
policy issues this commission will
be addressing over the next few
years?
The Sustainability Commission will likely address a range of crucial policy issues in the next few years, driven by the increasing urgency of climate change and the need for more sustainable practices. These include:
Climate Action Planning: Developing and implementing a
comprehensive climate action plan will be a central focus. This involves setting ambitious greenhouse gas reduction targets, identifying strategies to achieve those targets, and tracking progress. Key areas of focus within climate action planning include:
Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy: Promoting energy efficiency in buildings and transportation, and transitioning to renewable energy sources like solar and wind power.
Transportation: Reducing reliance on single-occupancy vehicles by promoting public transit, cycling, walking, and electric vehicle adoption.
Waste Reduction and Recycling: Implementing programs to reduce waste generation, increase recycling rates, and promote composting.
Water Conservation and Management: Developing strategies to conserve water resources, particularly in light of drought conditions, will be crucial. This includes promoting water-efficient landscaping, implementing water-wise building codes, and exploring innovative water management technologies.
Resilience and Adaptation: Building community resilience to the impacts of climate change, such as extreme heat, sea-level rise, and wildfires, will become increasingly important. This involves developing adaptation strategies to protect critical infrastructure and vulnerable populations.
Green Building Standards: Implementing and strengthening green building standards for new construction and renovations to improve energy efficiency, reduce water consumption, and minimize environmental impact.
Sustainable Transportation: Promoting sustainable transportation options, including public transit, cycling, walking, and electric vehicles, will be essential for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and improving air quality. This may involve expanding public transit infrastructure, creating more bike lanes, and installing electric vehicle charging stations.
Community Engagement and Education: Raising public awareness about sustainability issues and engaging the community in developing and implementing solutions will be crucial for success.
This includes educational campaigns, community workshops, and opportunities for public input.
Environmental Justice: Ensuring that sustainability policies and initiatives benefit all community members equitably, particularly those in historically marginalized communities who may be disproportionately impacted by environmental hazards, is a key Aaron Terry
consideration.
Circular Economy: Promoting a circular economy model that focuses on reducing waste, reusing materials, and extending the life of products will be increasingly important for achieving sustainability goals.
The Sustainability Commission will need to prioritize these issues, develop data-driven strategies, and collaborate with various stakeholders to effectively address the complex challenges of creating a more sustainable Sunnyvale. My analytical skills, experience in strategic planning, and commitment to addressing complex challenges would allow me to contribute meaningfully to this important work.
Aaron Terry
Description Area View the Climate Action Playbook
Have you read the above version
of the Climate Action Playbook?
No
Fair Political Practices Commission Statement of Economic Interests Description Area If you are appointed to the Arts Commission, Heritage Preservation Commission, Housing and Human Services
Commission or the Planning Commission, you must electronically file the Fair Political Practices Commission (FPPC) Statement of Economic Interests (Form 700), which will be a public
record.Statement of Economic Interests - Form 700Understanding of Filing Requirement I understand and agree that if I’m appointed to the Arts Commission, Heritage Preservation Commission, Housing and Human Services Commission or
Planning Commission I must electronically file the Fair Political Practices Statement of Economic Interests (Form 700). This form reports my economic interests and those of my spouse or domestic partner, if applicable. I understand this will be a public record.
Radio Button Yes
Demographic Information
Your age
Your gender
Description Area
LGBTQIA+ Identity
Race or Ethnicity (select all that
apply)
Do you speak a language other
than English?
Household Income
Residence - Are you a
Do you live in a
Aaron Terry
Do you have any other identities*
you would like to share with us?
Your Agreement
Description Area IMPORTANT NOTICE – READ BEFORE SIGNING:By selecting both “Yes” and “Submit Form” below I am adding my digital signature to this application. I am also agreeing with the following statements:All statements I have made on this application are true and correct.I authorize the City of Sunnyvale (City) to investigate the accuracy of this information.I release the City from all claims and liabilities arising from such investigation.I acknowledge that any false statement on this application will be grounds for the City to deny my appointment. A false statement discovered later, will be grounds to dismiss me from my appointment at any time.I acknowledge that any false statement on this application could lead to criminal charges. Charges could fall under California Penal Code, Section 115 or other applicable law.
I agree Yes
Your full name Aaron Joseph Terry
Date Mar 25, 2025
Aaron Terry