Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Appointments topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Hanford council appoints two new planning commissioners after four finalist interviews
Summary
After interviewing four finalists for three planning‑commission seats, the Hanford City Council appointed Cecily Esparza and Parveer Gill as commissioners and named Lisa McElwain as the alternate; council recorded a 5‑0 vote and said the fourth finalist, Jonathan Juarez, will remain on the list for future vacancies.
The Hanford City Council interviewed four finalists in a study-session block and on Feb. 3 appointed two to the planning commission after scoring and ranking the candidates.
Deputy City Manager Jason Waters confirmed the selection process and scores. "Based on the rankings, Cecily Esparza received the highest score," staff said. Council discussion focused on bringing a mix of housing‑management, property‑management and engineering expertise to the commission.
Cecily Esparza told council she oversees about 1,200 apartment units and has led resident-support programs and community outreach; she said she would rely on the general plan when reviewing projects. Parveer Gill described his background as a civil engineer and water‑resources specialist and said he would focus on infrastructure capacity, drainage and connectivity. Lisa McElwain emphasized data, feasibility and community priorities in project review. Candidate Jonathan Juarez, an attorney, emphasized reading, critical thinking and regional housing pressures.
Council appointments: the council appointed Cecily Esparza and Parveer Gill as regular planning commissioners, named Lisa McElwain as the alternate and said Jonathan Juarez will remain on the eligibility list for future vacancies. The motion passed 5‑0.
Why it matters: Hanford is experiencing rapid housing growth and forthcoming land‑use projects; the commission will advise on proposals, implement the general plan and help apply CEQA policies such as agricultural mitigation requirements.
Next step: Staff will notify appointees, update the commission roster and schedule onboarding steps and upcoming planning hearings.
