Committee recommends Charlie Riley for Paseo del Río advisory seat after candidate interviews

The Committee on Economic Development and Workforce met Feb. 24 to interview applicants for open seats on the city advisory board responsible for recommending use of general capital-improvement funds for the Paseo del Río (River Walk). After interviews, the committee voted to recommend Charlie Riley for one available seat.

The advisory board, established in 2002, advises the city council on use of general funds for projects along the Paseo del Río, downtown cultural assets and historic preservation. At the meeting the committee heard from multiple applicants and asked each to describe priorities they would pursue if appointed.

Applicants who spoke included Terrence Furmon (applicant), Charlie Riley (applicant), Dominique Pedro Silva (resident/project manager), and Sam Paschévere (applicant/business owner). Committee members in the meeting included Councilmember Rocha García, Councilmember Villagrán, Councilmember Castillo and Councilmember White; the session was chaired by President Peláez.

Candidates consistently cited improved lighting and accessibility as priorities. Terrence Furmon said the River Walk should be “protected” and better lit for parade and event viewing, and noted his service on boards representing the Paseo del Río. Charlie Riley said he supports continuing tree and feature lighting and finishing accessibility improvements already underway. Dominique Pedro Silva emphasized better pedestrian access and curb/sidewalk accessibility for people with disabilities. Sam Paschévere urged more vegetation under bridges and additional lighting to enhance safety and the visitor experience.

Committee members asked about family-oriented programming, shade and cooling measures for hot weather, and volunteer engagement. Candidates suggested more permanent tree lighting (beyond holiday displays), expanded shade or cooling stations, clearer signage or wayfinding, and outreach to local businesses and volunteers to support events.

The committee chair moved to recommend Charlie Riley to the city council for an available seat; members present voted in favor and the recommendation will be forwarded to the City Council for final appointment. The motion was recorded by the committee as carried unanimously; no roll-call tally of individual names was provided in the transcript.

The committee paused briefly to accept a written statement from an absent applicant and confirmed the process of interviewing candidates in separate rooms to avoid candidate overlap. Shannon Miller of historic preservation was present in the audience and available for questions during the candidate deliberations.

Next steps: the committee’s recommendation will be transmitted to the full City Council for consideration and appointment to the advisory board.