Park board seeks applicants for two vacancies, reopens recruitment; Citizens Academy and public‑art ad hoc committee announced

The Park Advisory Board reported two vacancies after Rose Brecker and Seth Williams stepped down and said staff had received one application that staff will forward to the city council for appointment consideration.

Chelsea, a staff member, said the application period closed late last week and the city will send the application to the city council for a Monday appointment decision; one vacant term expires Dec. 31, 2026, the other in 2027. Chelsea said the openings will be re‑advertised once the city recorder is back on Thursday.

Staff also described the Citizens Academy schedule: an eight‑session program beginning Sept. 4 with a first, drop‑in local government 101 session at 6 p.m. at City Hall. Chelsea said attendees who complete seven of eight sessions will receive a certificate and that the program includes tours and presentations from police, fire and public works. Staff noted Citizens Academy has been a recruitment pipeline for boards and committees.

Separately, staff announced a new ad hoc public‑art committee with applications open now and a Sept. 30 closing date; the committee will develop a program and initial plans, starting downtown and eventually extending to parks.

Action: staff will forward the received board application to the city council for appointment consideration and will reopen recruitment for the two vacancies; staff will also continue to publicize Citizens Academy and the public‑art ad hoc committee.

Ending: Board members asked members to spread the word about openings and programs; staff will report applicant and appointment status when available.