LAFCO appoints Lynn Mello as public member; Joe Howard named alternate

The San Benito County Local Agency Formation Commission voted Nov. 13 to appoint Lynn Mello as its public member and Joseph (Joe) Howard as the public member alternate.

Lynn Mello, a San Benito County resident for more than 40 years and a nurse with decades of public-health experience, told commissioners she sought the public-member seat to support LAFCO’s mission of preventing urban sprawl and preserving farmland. “I have a long history of volunteerism…and I believe that I can serve the community…with transparency and a level head,” Mello said in her remarks.

Andy Morrison, who described prior work for the cities and counties of Santa Cruz and ongoing involvement in the wastewater field, said he applied because he feared LAFCO seats could go unfilled. Joseph (Joe) Howard said he applied to offer residents more options but indicated he thought other candidates might be better suited.

Commissioners discussed the candidates and then moved to appoint Mello to the public-member seat; the roll call recorded votes of Commissioner Kozmicki — yes; Commissioner Zenger — yes; Commissioner Stevens — yes; Commissioner Jordan — yes (4–0). The commission then moved to appoint Joseph Howard as the alternate; the roll call recorded Commissioner Kozmicki — yes; Commissioner Zenger — yes; Commissioner Stevens — yes; Commissioner Jordan — no (3–1), and the motion passed.

After the vote, staff administered Mello’s oath of office during a brief recess so she could take her seat.

The appointments conclude the commission’s selection process for the two public positions; no contested appeals or external challenges were raised during the meeting.