Council appoints two to Senior Advisory Commission, places one on eligibility list

The Santa Clara City Council unanimously appointed Michelle Schmidz and Adila Sadat to the Senior Advisory Commission on motions made after interviews with each candidate.

Michelle Schmidz, a lifelong Santa Clara resident who has worked in Santa Clara Unified School District and volunteered in local civic programs, was the top vote-getter and was nominated to fill the longer partial term. Schmidz told the council she would focus on outreach, intergenerational connection and improving awareness of existing services.

Adila Sadat, who said she has been active in local education and senior‑center activities and described herself as ‘‘the eyes and ears on the ground,’’ was appointed to the full term. During her interview she emphasized expanding trips, intergenerational programs and outreach through churches and community centers.

Claire Fidelli, who described priorities including technology mentoring and social programming for older adults, received sufficient votes to be placed on a six‑month eligibility list should a vacancy occur.

Council members followed a standard interview format: three minutes for applicant opening remarks, council questions in turn, one‑minute closing comments, and then votes after the full slate of interviews. Assistant City Clerk Nora noted two applicants for the Civil Service Commission had withdrawn earlier; council later voted to reopen that recruitment.

The city clerk’s office will contact the newly appointed commissioners to schedule oath of office and orientation before their first meeting.