Planning Commission names Commissioner Jago alternate to Heritage Tree Board

The Pleasanton Planning Commission appointed Commissioner Jago as the alternate member to the Heritage Tree Board of Appeals during its May 14 meeting.

Commission staff explained the alternate seat fills a vacancy created by recent commission changes and noted terms run for two years and meetings occur irregularly, typically when property owners file appeals related to protected trees. "Once someone is appointed, there's a term limit of 2 years, I believe," the commission heard during the discussion.

Commissioners and members of the public described the board as sometimes handling emotional, high-interest disputes over tree removal and replacement. Commissioner Jagos (who confirmed the preferred pronunciation as “Jaygo”) said he had prior experience with heritage tree cases and expressed interest but noted he wanted to review the ordinance before committing. After discussion and encouragement from other commissioners, Jago agreed to serve as the alternate. The motion to appoint Jago passed unanimously.

Commissioners emphasized that alternate members often attend few meetings—sometimes none to a handful per year—and may recuse themselves where conflicts exist. Staff advised newly appointed alternates to consult with the city landscape architect and to review recent ordinance revisions; commissioners noted the heritage-tree ordinance was revised in the previous year to clarify removal standards and mitigation requirements.

Chair Morgan and other commissioners encouraged interaction with staff before taking votes on specific appeals so alternates understand the revamped ordinance and board procedures.