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Board interviews two candidates and forwards Nathan Nakagawa’s nomination to city council
Summary
The board conducted public interviews of two finalists for an unscheduled trustee vacancy and by roll‑call majority voted to forward Nathan Nakagawa’s name to City Council for appointment to the remainder of the term.
San Jose — As a time‑certain item the board interviewed two finalists for the unscheduled vacancy on the Federated Retirement Board. After public questions from trustees and two public commenters, the board held separate motions and votes and ultimately voted to forward Nathan Nakagawa’s nomination to City Council.
Candidates and interview format: The board heard public introductions from Brian Chi (city treasury/investment background; previously at BlackRock and in municipal finance roles) and Nathan Nakagawa (city HR and operations background; program manager in Environmental Services and prior Apple/retail IT background). Trustees asked each candidate about fiduciary duties, potential conflicts (financial holdings and outside affiliations), committee interests and readiness to absorb technical investment and actuarial materials.
Trustee discussion and public comment: Trustees debated the mix of skills the board needs — investment expertise vs. administrative and HR/governance experience. Public commenters, including an advocate for retirees, spoke in support of candidates and urged the board to ensure the chosen nominee engages with beneficiaries.
Vote and outcome: A substitute motion to nominate Brian Chi failed after roll‑call votes. The board then voted to forward Nathan Nakagawa’s nomination to City Council (recorded yes votes from Vice Chair Chandra; Trustees Abbott, Faulkner and Linder; Trustee Evoste voted no; Chair recorded an abstention on the final.) Staff will prepare and transmit the formal memo to City Council for the appointment of Nakagawa to complete the remainder of the term.
What’s next: The appointment requires City Council action. If approved by Council the appointee will serve until the expiration of the term (the board noted the term ends Nov. 27 of the applicable year). The board asked staff to notify the candidates and prepare a transmittal memo.
Speakers (selected): Brian Chi (candidate); Nathan Nakagawa (candidate); Vice Chair Chandra; Trustee Linder; Trustee Abbott; public commenters Brad Imamura and a former trustee.
