Applicants highlight accessibility, community feedback and a parks master plan

Three applicants interviewed by the Saratoga City Council urged different approaches to improving local parks, emphasizing accessibility, resident outreach and needed planning.

Nicholas said he would prioritize accessibility and quicker responses to park problems by collecting more community feedback. “We can really…harness QR codes and just have an online feedback system in order to get more information from people that use the parks,” he said, adding that one‑on‑one conversations with park users could improve compliance with rules such as bans on staking equipment.

Mitra, a 19‑year Saratoga resident and long‑time health‑care worker, said she would focus on preserving park nature for future generations and suggested increased handicap access and outdoor activities for older residents. She described herself as “very organized and reliable” and said her work with diverse populations prepared her for public engagement.

Michael, a retired marketing professional and longtime volunteer, said a key role would be educating residents about lesser‑used parks and their resources. He also called for a parks master plan: “I’d like to see a master plan,” he said, and noted local recreation groups’ fundraising, asking where funds raised by clubs (he cited $20,000 raised by a Pickleball Club) are directed. Michael described experience leading hikes and coordinating with regional park organizations and said he would act as a liaison on neighborhood issues including pickleball conflicts.

The council thanked each applicant and said staff would follow up by phone the next day; the chosen appointee will be sworn in on March 4.