HomeMy WebLinkAboutStaff Report 2502-4163CITY OF PALO ALTO
CITY COUNCIL
Special Meeting
Monday, April 07, 2025
Council Chambers & Hybrid
5:30 PM
Agenda Item
1.Appointment of Candidates to the Human Relations Commission and Utilities Advisory
Commission. CEQA Status – Not a project.
City Council
Staff Report
From: City Manager
Report Type: SPECIAL ORDERS OF THE DAY
Lead Department: City Clerk
Meeting Date: April 7, 2025
Report #:2502-4163
TITLE
Appointment of Candidates to the Human Relations Commission and Utilities Advisory
Commission. CEQA Status – Not a project.
RECOMMENDATION
Staff recommends City Council vote to appoint one (1) candidate to the Human Relations
Commission to fill the partial term expiring October 31, 2025, and two (2) candidates to the
Utilities Advisory Commission for a full-term expiring March 31, 2028.
*A majority vote (4 yes’s) is required to appoint a candidate.
BACKGROUND
At the March 24, 2025 City Council meeting, the Council held interviews for the 2025 Spring
Recruitment of the Architectural Review Board (ARB), Human Relations Commission (HRC), and
Utilities Advisory Commission (UAC). Video recording of the interviews are available on our City
of Palo Alto YouTube Channel1. All applications for the ARB, HRC, and UAC can be accessed
online.
Fourteen (14) candidates participated in the interview process, while one (1) candidate was
absent. Candidates for the Human Relations Commission ad Utilities Advisory Commission have
advanced to the appointment selection phase.
City Council directed staff to extend the recruitment period for the Architectural Review Board
to broaden the applicant pool. Interviews for the ARB will be scheduled during a future City
Council Meeting.
Membership Requirements
1 City of Palo Alto YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/cityofpaloalto
Each Board or Commission has different requirements for appointment such as a mandatory
residency, specialized training, or professional service in a specified area. Additionally,
appointed members cannot be council members, officers, or employees of the City of Palo Alto.
Human Relations Commission
•Current Palo Alto residency. (PAMC 2.22.0103)
*All applicants satisfy the requirements.
Utilities Advisory Commission
•Each member of the commission shall be a utility customer or the authorized
representative of a utility customer.
•Palo Alto residency is required at all times for at least six members of the commission
(PAMC 2.23.010 4).
o This requirement is currently fulfilled by six Commissioners; Commissioner
Meagan Mauter resides outside of Palo Alto.
*All applicants satisfy these requirements.
FURTHER INFORMATION
Boards and Commissions are established as advisory bodies to the City Council, made up of
community volunteers that provide essential feedback on matters of importance to the
community. The City Clerk’s office advertises and recruits for vacancies, the Council considers
the applications, interviews desired candidates, and makes appointments for the open
positions.
ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW
Council action on this item is not a project as defined by CEQA because it an organizational or
administrative activity that will not result in direct or indirect physical changes in the
environment. CEQA Guidelines section 15378(b)(5).
ATTACHMENTS
Attachment A - Human Relations Commission Applications Updated – Redacted
Attachment B - Utilities Advisory Commission Applications Updated – Redacted
APPROVED BY:
Mahealani Ah Yun, City Clerk
Human Relations Commission Application
Submitted on 21 February 2025, 5:17pm
Receipt number 48
Related form version 12
Name Jonake Bose
Cell Phone Number
Home Phone Number
Email Address
Are you a Palo Alto resident?Yes
Address
City Palo Alto
Postal Code 94303
Do you have any relatives or members of your household who
are employed by the City of Palo Alto, who are currently
serving on the City Council, or who are Commissioners or
Board Members?
No
Are you available and committed to complete the term applied
for? (Partial Term expiring October 31, 2025)
Yes
Fair Political Practices No
Excluding your principal residence, do you or your spouse
own real property in Palo Alto?
No
How did you learn about the vacancy on the Human Relations
Commission?
Community Group
Personal Information
1 of 3
Read the code, and check only ONE option below:I request that the City of Palo Alto redact my home address, phone
numbers, and email address from the attached Board and Commission
Application prior to posting to the City’s website.
Consent to Publish Personal Information on the City of Palo Alto Website
Occupation Independent College Consultant
Please list your relevant education, training, experience,
certificates of training, licenses, and professional registration.
If describing work experience, please include
company/employer name and occupation.
I have been an independent college counselor (paid and probono
practice) since 2020. My college counseling website is
www.jonakebose.com
I am a professional member of the IECA (College Counseling prof.
organization)
I received my College Counseling Certificate from UC Berkeley in 2020
I was the Executive Director and served on the Board of Dream Catchers
2018-2020
I received my MA in International Relations & Economics from U of S.
Carolina
Served on Site Council for Ohlone Elementary, JLS Middle School, Palo
Alto High School
For additional information related to my professional career in banking
please view my LinkedIn profile: www.linkedin.com/in/jonakebose/
Please describe your involvement in community activities,
volunteer and civic organizations, including dates and any
offices held.
I was the Board member on Youth Community Service 2014-2016
Board member and Finance Comm. Chair for Sage - Education travel
organization
Vestry member St. Marks - 2 terms - most recent term started in 2024
Board member of Woodstock School - Oldest international residential
school in the Himalayas - since 2020. Chair of Audit and Advancement
committee
Personal and Job Experience
1. Why are you interested in serving on the Human Relations
Commission and what experience would you bring to the
position?
Having come to the US on a full scholarship and benefited tremendously
from that opportunity, I have always volunteered striving to pay it forward
to those who are marginalized and don't have access to the resources
many in this community do. As the executive director of a small non-
profit serving low income middle school students in Palo Alto, I realized
that many in this community are not aware that there are people living
among us struggling to make ends meet. I would like to serve in a way
so as to bring more equity to this disenfranchised group and increase
awareness among Palo Alto residents so that we listen and learn from
each other. I believe my experience working closely with this
marginalized community has increased my awareness and
understanding which will allow me to contribute positively to the work of
this commission.
2. Please describe an issue that recently came before the
Commission that is of particular interest to you and describe
why you are interested in it.
There are two issues that I believe came up before HRC that are interest
to me:
1. Providing assistance to support the unhoused community members -
(RV dwellers, those living in the cars).. I have learned about this as I
have engaged through our church with Life Moves and Hotel de Zink. I
have had a chance to see how hard working these people are and would
like to support them in finding more stability and ways for them to
connect with the community they work in.
2. The other issue that is close to me is mental health issues affecting
Application Questions
2 of 3
the youth in our community. With the increased proliferation of screen
usage, there is a lot more anxiety and loneliness among our youth. I
believe the HRC could work on recommendations to support our youth in
ways they can connect with each other and have a sense of belonging
within the community thereby feeling less lonely and less anxious.
3. If you are appointed, what specific goals would you like to
see the Human Relations Commission achieve, and how would
you help in the process?
I do not have specific goals that I would like to see the HRC achieve, but
I would like to actively support the goals the committee has put forward
making sure we are listening to all stakeholder voices and being as
inclusive as possible. Residents should feel safe and know that their
voices are heard. There might be new issues that surface given the
current political climate. It is important that we listen as issues arise and
adapt accordingly if necessary.
4. Human Relations Commission Members work with the
documents listed below. If you have experience with any of
these documents, please describe that experience. Experience
with these documents is not required for selection.
I do not have any particular experience with any of the above mentioned
documents.
If you'd like to provide any additional documents, please
upload below.
Please confirm that you have read the Boards and
Commissions Handbook.
Yes
Signature Name of signatory: Ms. Jonake Bose
Date Completed 02/21/2025
3 of 3
Learn: Analyze insights to develop data-driven policy recommendations that addressequity gaps.Act: Implement awareness campaigns, advocacy programs, and diversityinitiatives to drive systemic change.
As a long-time Palo Alto resident, I am deeply invested in creating a welcoming, inclusive,and fair community for all. I look forward to the opportunity to serve and contribute
meaningfully to the HRC’s vital work.
Thank you for your time and consideration. I welcome the opportunity to discuss how my
experience and passion can support the Commission’s efforts.
Sincerely,Sridhar Karnam
Describe your involvement in community activities, volunteer and civic organizations, including
dates and any offices held: (1242 characters)
How did you learn about the vacancy on the uman Relations Commission?
Community Group
Email from the City
Palo Alto Weekly
Daily Post
City Website
Flyer
Other: ______________________________________________________________________________
List relevant education, training, experience, certificates of training, licenses, or professional
registration: (621 characters)
Employment
Employer:
Occupation:
Current Employer Last Employer
Page 2
Human Relations Commission
I have been actively engaged in community-building, mentorship, and advocacy, aligning
with the HRC’s mission. From 2005 to 2010, I raised funds in India to support the
education of underprivileged children from marginalized caste and religious backgrounds
and worked with an orphanage providing schooling and boarding for high school girls.
From 2014 to 2016, I volunteered with the Aga Khan Foundation Bay Area chapter,
organizing fundraising events and walkathons. As the only Hindu volunteer in this
Muslim-led initiative, I aimed to bridge communities and encourage broader support for a
shared cause.
I believe all humanity is one and that everyone deserves equal opportunities regardless of
race, gender, or religion. At HP and Salesforce, I worked with Women in Security groups,
organizing events to promote and hire women security professionals.
I am passionate about youth education and diversity in STEM, mentoring
underrepresented students and supporting local nonprofits with digital security guidance.
As a long-time Palo Alto resident, I am committed to fairness, inclusion, and equity in our
community and eager to serve the HRC’s mission.
SRIDHAR KARNAM
Referred by Lori Meyers
I have a strong background in leadership, advocacy, and inclusion, aligning with the HRC’s
mission. With an MS in Engineering Management (Santa Clara Univ.) and an MBA in
Marketing, I have led diverse teams in security, cloud, and product management at
Salesforce, Oracle, and HP.
My expertise in public communication, strategic leadership, and cross-cultural collaboration
enables me to drive awareness and fairness. As a Palo Alto resident, I am committed to
fostering equity, inclusion, and civil discourse in the community.
Salesforce
Product Manage
4
2.Please describe an issue that recently came before the Commission that is of particular interest
to you and describe why you are interested in it. Archived videos available from the Midpen
Media Center. (1449 characters)
1.Why are you interested in serving on the Human Relations Commission and what experience
would you bring to the position? (1518 characters)
Page 3
Human Relations Commission
The community listening session on Local Muslim, Palestinian, and Arab Experiences in
the Face of Rising Islamophobia and Anti-Arab Hate (December 2023) deeply resonated
with me, as I strongly believe that listening is the first step to understanding complex
social issues and fostering meaningful change.
This session highlighted the challenges faced by marginalized communities in times of
heightened discrimination and underscored the importance of open dialogue, empathy,
and community support. It reminded me of my own experience working with the Aga Khan
Foundation in the Bay Area from 2014 to 2016, where I was the only Hindu volunteer in a
Muslim-led initiative. I actively helped organize fundraising events and walkathons,
believing that interfaith collaboration can bridge communities and create shared
opportunities for support and understanding.
Participating in this work reinforced my conviction that all humanity is one and that every
individual, regardless of race, religion, or ethnicity, deserves equal opportunities and
dignity. I deeply appreciate the HRC’s commitment to giving a platform to
underrepresented voices, as true progress begins with listening, acknowledging lived
experiences, and working together to build a more inclusive and equitable society.
SRIDHAR KARNAM
I am passionate about equity, inclusion, and social justice, and I believe in fostering a
community where everyone has equal opportunities, regardless of race, gender, or
background. Serving on the Human Relations Commission aligns with my lifelong
commitment to advocacy, mentorship, and community engagement.
My experience spans fundraising, mentorship, and leadership in diversity-focused
initiatives. From 2005 to 2010, I raised funds in India to support underprivileged children
from marginalized communities and worked with an orphanage for high school girls. From
2014 to 2016, I helped organize fundraising events and walkathons for the Aga Khan
Foundation, fostering interfaith collaboration.
In my professional career, I have worked at HP and Salesforce to promote diversity in
cybersecurity, helping organize events to hire and support women in security. I also
mentor underrepresented students in STEM and support local nonprofits with digital
security guidance.
As a long-time Palo Alto resident, I am committed to creating a fair and inclusive
community. My diverse experiences in advocacy, leadership, and cross-cultural
collaboration equip me to contribute meaningfully to the HRC’s mission.
4.Human Relations Commission Members work with the documents listed below. If you have experience
3.If you are appointed, what specific goals would you like to see the Human Relations Commission
achieve, and how would you help in the process? (1656 characters)
with any of these documents, please describe that experience. Experience with these documents is
not required for selection, but will help you better understand the work of the board (690 characters)
Muni Code 9.72 – Mandatory Response Program
Community Services Element of the Comprehensive Plan (2017)
Page 4
Human Relations Commission
Human Services Needs Assessment (2020)
I have experience working with anti-discrimination policies, diversity initiatives, and
inclusion programs in both professional and volunteer settings. At HP and Salesforce, I
helped organize events to promote and hire women in security, addressing gender diversity
in tech.
My work with the Aga Khan Foundation involved interfaith collaboration and fundraising for
marginalized communities, aligning with the HRC’s mission. Additionally, I have mentored
underrepresented students in STEM and supported local nonprofits, giving me insight into
equity, access, and policy advocacy.
SRIDHAR KARNAM
I would apply a Listen-Learn-Act Framework to help the HRC drive equity and inclusion in
Palo Alto.
1. Listen – Understand Community Needs (0-6 months)
• Host listening sessions with underrepresented groups (e.g., minorities,
immigrants, women in tech).
• Use surveys and town halls to identify key challenges in discrimination,
housing, and employment.
• Partner with local organizations and interfaith groups to elevate diverse
perspectives.
2. Learn – Develop Policy Recommendations (6-12 months)
• Analyze insights from listening sessions to create an HRC Equity Report
identifying systemic barriers.
• Study best practices from other cities to inform policy improvements.
• Work with officials to refine anti-discrimination policies and increase resource
accessibility.
3. Act – Implement Initiatives for Long-Term Impact (12+ months)
• Launch awareness campaigns on racial and religious discrimination.
• Develop a Community Ally Program for peer-led advocacy and inclusion.
• Advocate for diverse hiring practices in city offices and businesses.
As a community leader and advocate, I bring experience in fundraising for marginalized
students in India, promoting women in cybersecurity, and interfaith collaboration with the
Human Relations Commission Application
Submitted on 2 February 2025, 7:52pm
Receipt number 43
Related form version 12
Name Sean Patrick King
Cell Phone Number
Home Phone Number
Email Address
Are you a Palo Alto resident?Yes
Address
City Palo Alto
Postal Code 94303
Do you have any relatives or members of your household who
are employed by the City of Palo Alto, who are currently
serving on the City Council, or who are Commissioners or
Board Members?
No
Are you available and committed to complete the term applied
for? (Partial Term expiring October 31, 2025)
Yes
Fair Political Practices No
Excluding your principal residence, do you or your spouse
own real property in Palo Alto?
No
How did you learn about the vacancy on the Human Relations
Commission?
Other: Friend
Personal Information
1 of 3
Read the code, and check only ONE option below:I request that the City of Palo Alto redact my home address, phone
numbers, and email address from the attached Board and Commission
Application prior to posting to the City’s website.
Consent to Publish Personal Information on the City of Palo Alto Website
Occupation Administrative Assistant
Please list your relevant education, training, experience,
certificates of training, licenses, and professional registration.
If describing work experience, please include
company/employer name and occupation.
Administrative Assistant in the PAU Office of Registrar.
Please describe your involvement in community activities,
volunteer and civic organizations, including dates and any
offices held.
None.
Personal and Job Experience
1. Why are you interested in serving on the Human Relations
Commission and what experience would you bring to the
position?
I am interested in serving on the Human Relations Commission to
promote equity, inclusivity, and data-driven decision-making in our
community. As a Palo Alto native with a background in economics and
business analytics, I bring expertise in data analysis and policy
evaluation to assess community programs and inform strategic
decisions.
2. Please describe an issue that recently came before the
Commission that is of particular interest to you and describe
why you are interested in it.
A recent issue before the Human Relations Commission that particularly
interests me is the presentation on hate crimes by the Federal Bureau of
Investigation's Civil Rights Unit in September 2022. This topic is of great
concern to me because understanding and addressing hate crimes is
crucial for fostering a safe and inclusive community. By analyzing data
on such incidents, we can identify patterns and implement targeted
interventions to prevent future occurrences.
3. If you are appointed, what specific goals would you like to
see the Human Relations Commission achieve, and how would
you help in the process?
If appointed, I would like to see the Human Relations Commission
achieve measurable progress in promoting social equity, enhancing
community engagement, and using data-driven insights to address
issues like discrimination, housing insecurity, and public safety.
Specifically, I would advocate for improved data collection and analysis
to assess disparities in access to resources and inform policy
recommendations. I would also support initiatives that foster dialogue
between diverse community groups and local government to ensure that
all voices are represented in decision-making.
4. Human Relations Commission Members work with the
documents listed below. If you have experience with any of
these documents, please describe that experience. Experience
with these documents is not required for selection.
I do not.
If you'd like to provide any additional documents, please
upload below.
Resume_January_2025.pdf
Application Questions
2 of 3
Please confirm that you have read the Boards and
Commissions Handbook.
Yes
Signature Name of signatory: Sean Patrick King
Date Completed 02/02/2025
3 of 3
Human Relations Commission Application
Submitted on 19 February 2025, 6:07pm
Receipt number 50
Related form version 12
Name Sunanda Mishra
Cell Phone Number
Home Phone Number
Email Address
Are you a Palo Alto resident?Yes
Address
City Palo Alto
Postal Code 94303
Do you have any relatives or members of your household who
are employed by the City of Palo Alto, who are currently
serving on the City Council, or who are Commissioners or
Board Members?
No
Are you available and committed to complete the term applied
for? (Partial Term expiring October 31, 2025)
Yes
Fair Political Practices No
Excluding your principal residence, do you or your spouse
own real property in Palo Alto?
No
How did you learn about the vacancy on the Human Relations
Commission?
Community Group
Personal Information
1 of 3
Read the code, and check only ONE option below:I request that the City of Palo Alto redact my home address, phone
numbers, and email address from the attached Board and Commission
Application prior to posting to the City’s website.
Consent to Publish Personal Information on the City of Palo Alto Website
Occupation Homemaker
Please list your relevant education, training, experience,
certificates of training, licenses, and professional registration.
If describing work experience, please include
company/employer name and occupation.
MAIS: Masters of arts and Interdisciplinary studies, Oregon State
University.
B.S, Computer Science and Engg, NIT Rourkela.
Computer software professional in the bay area for 11 years (1996-2007)
Please describe your involvement in community activities,
volunteer and civic organizations, including dates and any
offices held.
Parent volunteer at Fairmeadow Elementary School, science lab and art
lab coordinator (2011-2018)
Volunteered for Ravenswood school district elementary schools for a
semester.( reading helper for Belle Heaven Elementary school) 2016.
Volunteer at an international charity (Vibha Inc) that supports
underprivileged children. (1996-present): Marketing and outreach
coordinator and Graphic designer.
Personal and Job Experience
1. Why are you interested in serving on the Human Relations
Commission and what experience would you bring to the
position?
I grew up in India in an educated middle class home. While I had a great
childhood I was acutely aware of the needs of people that are less
fortunate, and with that I joined the non profit Vibha to help raise
awareness about the underprivileged children in India. In my last few
years I have been fortunate to understand the issues like homelessness
and mental health problems in our communities. While most people that
I meet in palo alto seem to be highly educated, many lack awareness
and empathy for the marginalized community. What I hope to bring to
HRC is my enthusiasm to educate our community to be part of the
solution. Be it mental health issues, unhoused population in palo alto or
gender diversity in our schools, I wish to help our community overcome
the fear and stigma and come together to find solution that uplifts us all.
2. Please describe an issue that recently came before the
Commission that is of particular interest to you and describe
why you are interested in it.
Nov 2024 had a discussion on services for the unhoused. During
pandemic I was keen on helping those who were unable to afford
housing and were parked in their vehicles. While a local church was
willing to provide some unhoused folks parking spots in the night, I saw
how local residents opposed it with fearful rhetoric that was based on
negative stereotype of the poor and homeless. It was particularly hard to
see veteran residents of our community being scared for no reason. I
wish to educate people to overcome fear so that they can come our and
support solutions to problems rather than sit out in fear.
3. If you are appointed, what specific goals would you like to
see the Human Relations Commission achieve, and how would
you help in the process?
Make our community more tolerant towards people who are marginalized
and undeserved via awareness campaigns and sensitize our community
to the diversity and equity needs of our future. I would like to help with
promoting the work of HRC via seminars and flyers and by getting out
there in front of our busy tech savvy population that seems to have a
blinders sometimes for everything humanitarian.
4. Human Relations Commission Members work with the
documents listed below. If you have experience with any of
No.
Application Questions
2 of 3
these documents, please describe that experience. Experience
with these documents is not required for selection.
If you'd like to provide any additional documents, please
upload below.
Please confirm that you have read the Boards and
Commissions Handbook.
Yes
Signature Name of signatory: Sunanda Mishra
Date Completed 02/19/2025
3 of 3
Human Relations Commission Application
Submitted on 7 February 2025, 4:33pm
Receipt number 45
Related form version 12
Name Jessica Nelson
Cell Phone Number
Home Phone Number
Email Address
Are you a Palo Alto resident?Yes
Address
City Palo Alto
Postal Code 94306
Do you have any relatives or members of your household who
are employed by the City of Palo Alto, who are currently
serving on the City Council, or who are Commissioners or
Board Members?
No
Are you available and committed to complete the term applied
for? (Partial Term expiring October 31, 2025)
Yes
Fair Political Practices No
Excluding your principal residence, do you or your spouse
own real property in Palo Alto?
No
How did you learn about the vacancy on the Human Relations
Commission?
Email from the City
Personal Information
1 of 3
Read the code, and check only ONE option below:I request that the City of Palo Alto redact my home address, phone
numbers, and email address from the attached Board and Commission
Application prior to posting to the City’s website.
Consent to Publish Personal Information on the City of Palo Alto Website
Occupation Community Manager, Entrepreneur & Non-Profit Founder
Please list your relevant education, training, experience,
certificates of training, licenses, and professional registration.
If describing work experience, please include
company/employer name and occupation.
CA Realtor License ID:2107508
Member of the Santa Clara Realtor Association Foundation Board of
Directors.
Please describe your involvement in community activities,
volunteer and civic organizations, including dates and any
offices held.
I have attended local events that support local business and my teen
has served with YCS (Youth Community Service). In my occupation I
serve the community by providing assistance to settling expats in
navigating the city and finding the support they need to adjust to living in
a new city.
Personal and Job Experience
1. Why are you interested in serving on the Human Relations
Commission and what experience would you bring to the
position?
I am interested in serving on the Palo Alto Human Relations Commission
because I am passionate about fostering inclusive communities. With
over 10 years of experience as a community manager and realtor, I have
built strong relationships across diverse groups and understand the
importance of collaboration. As a board member of the Santa Clara
Realtor Association Foundation, I am committed to improving community
well-being. Through my nonprofit, Pinnacle Coast Global, I have led
initiatives focused on empowering vulnerable populations, particularly in
housing and social services. My experience in real estate, nonprofit
management, and community outreach will allow me to contribute
meaningfully to the commission’s mission of building a more inclusive
Palo Alto.
2. Please describe an issue that recently came before the
Commission that is of particular interest to you and describe
why you are interested in it.
A recent issue that caught my attention was the Commission’s
discussion on affordable housing and its impact on vulnerable
communities. As someone who works in real estate and manages
housing solutions for underserved populations, I am deeply concerned
about the lack of affordable housing options for low-income residents in
Palo Alto. The increasing housing costs have made it increasingly
difficult for families, students, and other vulnerable groups to find stable
housing. This issue is of particular interest to me because my work with
Pinnacle Coast Global focuses on providing housing solutions for people
facing these challenges. I believe the Commission’s efforts to address
this issue align with my own mission of promoting equitable access to
housing and resources. I am eager to contribute to finding sustainable
solutions that ensure all residents can thrive in our community.
3. If you are appointed, what specific goals would you like to
see the Human Relations Commission achieve, and how would
you help in the process?
If appointed, I would like to see the Human Relations Commission focus
on advancing affordable housing initiatives, promoting inclusivity, and
strengthening community outreach programs. One goal would be to
create more opportunities for affordable housing that can help support
vulnerable groups, including students, families, and low-income
individuals. I would also like to see more initiatives that foster cross-
cultural dialogue and understanding among Palo Alto’s diverse
communities. My background in real estate, nonprofit leadership, and
Application Questions
2 of 3
community engagement would allow me to contribute by advocating for
policies that prioritize inclusivity in housing and social services.
Additionally, I would leverage my connections with local organizations to
collaborate on projects that address the needs of underserved residents,
ensuring that everyone in Palo Alto has access to the resources they
need to thrive.
4. Human Relations Commission Members work with the
documents listed below. If you have experience with any of
these documents, please describe that experience. Experience
with these documents is not required for selection.
Although I have not yet worked directly with the specific documents
listed, my experience in community management and nonprofit
leadership has prepared me to quickly understand and engage with
similar strategic planning materials. As the founder of Pinnacle Coast
Global, a nonprofit in its early stages, I am deeply focused on assessing
the needs of vulnerable populations and designing programs to address
gaps in housing, social services, and community development. Although
my nonprofit is new, I aspire to contribute to policies and initiatives that
promote equitable access to resources. Additionally, my work on the
Santa Clara Realtor Association Foundation Board has involved
reviewing community plans, helping me develop skills to analyze and
contribute to community-focused documents. I am eager to expand my
knowledge and actively engage with these documents to further the
commission’s work.
If you'd like to provide any additional documents, please
upload below.
Please confirm that you have read the Boards and
Commissions Handbook.
Yes
Signature Name of signatory: Jessica Nelon
Date Completed 02/07/2025
3 of 3
Human Relations Commission Application
Submitted on 23 February 2025, 8:39pm
Receipt number 52
Related form version 12
Name Aji Oliyide
Cell Phone Number
Home Phone Number
Email Address
Are you a Palo Alto resident?Yes
Address
City Palo Alto
Postal Code 94303
Do you have any relatives or members of your household who
are employed by the City of Palo Alto, who are currently
serving on the City Council, or who are Commissioners or
Board Members?
No
Are you available and committed to complete the term applied
for? (Partial Term expiring October 31, 2025)
Yes
Fair Political Practices No
Excluding your principal residence, do you or your spouse
own real property in Palo Alto?
No
How did you learn about the vacancy on the Human Relations
Commission?
City Website
Personal Information
1 of 3
Read the code, and check only ONE option below:I request that the City of Palo Alto redact my home address, phone
numbers, and email address from the attached Board and Commission
Application prior to posting to the City’s website.
Consent to Publish Personal Information on the City of Palo Alto Website
Occupation Senior Program Manager
Please list your relevant education, training, experience,
certificates of training, licenses, and professional registration.
If describing work experience, please include
company/employer name and occupation.
BS Mechanical Engineering - Georgia Institute of Technology
MBA - Duke University
Chief Operating Officer Certification Program (in progress) - M.I.T
Employer: Google for 9+ years
Please describe your involvement in community activities,
volunteer and civic organizations, including dates and any
offices held.
Previous: SFCASA Board Member (3 years)
Current: Global Glimpse (2+ years), Board Member & Vice Chair
Personal and Job Experience
1. Why are you interested in serving on the Human Relations
Commission and what experience would you bring to the
position?
I am interested in this position for several reasons but the most
compelling is related to: having a vested interest in acting as an agent of
change and fairness for the people of Palo Alto. This is core to my ethics
and how I operate in my professional and personal life. I have been at
Google for 9+ years but a working professional for many more. I am
consistently sought after as a mentor/coach and advisor, particularly in
situations where colleagues are seeking guidance in difficult/challenging
situations. I bring many years of insight from various industries and
public service on nonprofit boards.
2. Please describe an issue that recently came before the
Commission that is of particular interest to you and describe
why you are interested in it.
City services and resources for the unhoused during periods of
inclement and cold weather including warming centers: as a global
citizen, the plight of unhoused people deeply concerns me. I'm very
interested in not only supporting temporary solutions which provide
immediate protections/care but also thoughtful longterm solutions so that
people can benefit from a feeling of stability and dignity.
3. If you are appointed, what specific goals would you like to
see the Human Relations Commission achieve, and how would
you help in the process?
In addition to several other goals, I would love to deep dive into issues
related to youth. The two Boards of which I have served (SFCASA) and
Global Glimpse deal with youth in the foster care system and
underrepresented youth travel, respectively. Vulnerable populations are
of particular interest to me to support. I am a 15+ year program manager
and an expert in execution of programs. I can lend this expertise in any
way that provides value to the city.
4. Human Relations Commission Members work with the
documents listed below. If you have experience with any of
these documents, please describe that experience. Experience
with these documents is not required for selection.
N/A - I do not have direct experience with the documents listed.
If you'd like to provide any additional documents, please
Application Questions
2 of 3
upload below.
Please confirm that you have read the Boards and
Commissions Handbook.
Yes
Signature Name of signatory: Aji Oliyide
Date Completed 02/23/2025
3 of 3
Utilities Advisory Commission Application
Submitted on 25 February 2025, 3:24pm
Receipt number 60
Related form version 11
Name Craig A Barney
Cell Phone Number
Home Phone Number
Email Address
Are you a Palo Alto resident?Yes
Address
City Palo Alto
Postal Code 94303
Do you have any relatives or members of your household who
are employed by the City of Palo Alto, who are currently
serving on the City Council, or who are Commissioners or
Board Members?
No
Are you available and committed to complete the term applied
for?
Yes
Fair Political Practices No
Excluding your principal residence, do you or your spouse
own real property in Palo Alto?
No
How did you learn about the vacancy on the Utilities Advisory
Commission?
Palo Alto Weekly
Personal Information
1 of 3
Read the code, and check only ONE option below:I give permission for the City of Palo Alto to post to the City’s website the
attached Board and Commission Application intact. I have read and
understand my rights under Government Code Section 6254.21. I may
revoke this permission at any time by providing written notice to the Palo
Alto City Clerk.
Consent to Publish Personal Information on the City of Palo Alto Website
Occupation Environmental Manager
Please list your relevant education, training, experience,
certificates of training, licenses, and professional registration.
If describing work experience, please include
company/employer name and occupation.
B.S. Chemistry; UC Berkeley
MSEM: Master of Science Environmental Management; USF
Environmental Manager 40 years experience
Please describe your involvement in community activities,
volunteer and civic organizations, including dates and any
offices held.
Previously on the CPA Compost Committee
CPA CBDG 1998
Peninsula Industrial Business Association, President 1996
Leadership Palo Alto, Member 1997
Personal and Job Experience
1. Why are you interested in serving on the Utilities Advsory
Commission and what experience would you bring to the
position?
As I am nearing retirement after over 40 years in the environmental field,
I am intereste=d in using my skills locally. As a PA resident, I am very
concerned about increasing our green energy portfolio.
2. Please describe an issue that recently came before the
Commission that is of particular interest to you and describe
why you are interested in it. If you have never been to a
Commission meeting, you can view archived videos from the
Midpen Media Center.
Fiber to the home
3. If appointed, what specific goals would you like to see the
Utilities Advisory Commission achieve, and how would you
help in the process?
Improving all utilities and their delivery. Smart Meters are new and would
like to understand them. Solar Power at home. Battery storage at home
4. Utilities Advisory Commission Members work with the
documents listed below. If you have experience with any of
these documents, please describe that experience. Experience
with these documents is not required for selection.
Volunteered for Fiber to Home working group.
If you'd like to provide any additional documents, please
upload below.
Please confirm that you have read the Boards and
Commissions Handbook.
Yes
Application Questions
2 of 3
Signature Name of signatory: Craig A Barney
Date Completed 02/25/2025
3 of 3
Utilities Advisory Commission Application
Submitted on 16 January 2025, 10:18am
Receipt number 50
Related form version 8
Name Rachel Croft
Cell Phone Number
Home Phone Number
Email Address
Are you a Palo Alto resident?Yes
Address
City Palo Alto
Postal Code 94306
Do you have any relatives or members of your household who
are employed by the City of Palo Alto, who are currently
serving on the City Council, or who are Commissioners or
Board Members?
No
Are you available and committed to complete the term applied
for?
Yes
Fair Political Practices No
Excluding your principal residence, do you or your spouse
own real property in Palo Alto?
No
How did you learn about the vacancy on the Utilities Advisory
Commission?
Other: current commissioner
Personal Information
1 of 3
Read the code, and check only ONE option below:I request that the City of Palo Alto redact my home address, phone
numbers, and email address from the attached Board and Commission
Application prior to posting to the City’s website.
Consent to Publish Personal Information on the City of Palo Alto Website
Occupation Consultant, Marketing and Strategy in Healthcare industry
Please list your relevant education, training, experience,
certificates of training, licenses, and professional registration.
If describing work experience, please include
company/employer name and occupation.
- Current member of Utilities Advisory Commission (22 months).
- For the last 8 years I worked for a company applying behavior change
models for quitting smoking. As employee #4 I led early development of
the product, working with smoking cessation experts to select and
implement behavior change models through use of an FDA cleared
biometric sensor plus behavior change app. Through data collection and
iteration we learned about what works to help people quit smoking. I
hope to apply this experience at UAC as we help residents and
businesses adopt energy / water efficiency and modify use patterns
achieve the City's sustainability goals.
- Prior to that I spent 18 years in the medical device industry in business
functions: strategic marketing and business development, working in
compliance with FDA and EU regulations.
- Prior to that I spent 5 years in investment banking.
BS Industrial Engineering , Stanford
MBA in Finance, Wharton U Penn
Please describe your involvement in community activities,
volunteer and civic organizations, including dates and any
offices held.
Current UAC Commissioner (22 months)
Recently joined the Palo Alto Climate Protection Working Group (June
2024)
Greene Elementary: Current PTA Secretary (2 years)
Escondido Elementary: Safe Routes to School rep (2 years), VP
Communication (2 years)
I worked actively in Southgate over the last 10 years to keep residents
informed and provide input to Palo Alto regarding Grade Separation at
the Churchill crossing.
Nextdoor: neighborhood lead for Southgate
Personal and Job Experience
1. Why are you interested in serving on the Utilities Advsory
Commission and what experience would you bring to the
position?
I am interested in sustainability and I view utilities as key actors that can
enable communities to reduce their climate impacts. This was my main
reason for wanting to participate on the UAC. I am interested in bringing
my experience applying behavior change models to advise CPAU as it
seeks to influence resident and business usage patterns to achieve our
SCAP objectives. Now that AMI is almost completely rolled out we have
data to share with customers that has the potential to change behaviors
if we use it effectively. I'm inspired by CPAU's opportunities and
challenges and I hope to continue work on the commission for another
term.
2. Please describe an issue that recently came before the
Commission that is of particular interest to you and describe
why you are interested in it. If you have never been to a
Commission meeting, you can view archived videos from the
Midpen Media Center.
I'm particularly interested in time of use rates and their potential to
impact usage patterns, in line with my interest in behavior change. I
would like to see CPAU set rates that incentivize people use energy in
ways that help us achieve clean power while maintaining reliability and
resiliency.
Application Questions
2 of 3
3. If appointed, what specific goals would you like to see the
Utilities Advisory Commission achieve, and how would you
help in the process?
I would like to see the UAC continue to advise and advocate for activities
that will help us to achieve our SCAP goals. This would involve continued
tracking of metrics (for example: 80% by 2030, penetration of
electrification, HPWH uptake, etc.) and achievement against them. I also
hope the UAC can advise the city on decisions that affect rates which
have been increasing at a higher rate lately, with a goal of bringing the
year/year increases down while still achieving reliability, service and
SCAP goals.
4. Utilities Advisory Commission Members work with the
documents listed below. If you have experience with any of
these documents, please describe that experience. Experience
with these documents is not required for selection.
I have reviewed the SCAP plan in detail as it has evolved,so that I am
familiar with the City's goals, especially the items that are relevant to
CPAU.
I have reviewed any plans that are relevant to discussions at UAC as the
discussions arise.
If you'd like to provide any additional documents, please
upload below.
Please confirm that you have read the Boards and
Commissions Handbook.
Yes
Signature Name of signatory: Rachel E Croft
Date Completed 01/16/2025
3 of 3
Utilities Advisory Commission Application
Submitted on 13 February 2025, 5:19pm
Receipt number 57
Related form version 11
Name Claude Ezran
Cell Phone Number
Home Phone Number
Email Address
Are you a Palo Alto resident?Yes
Address
City Palo Alto
Postal Code 94303
Do you have any relatives or members of your household who
are employed by the City of Palo Alto, who are currently
serving on the City Council, or who are Commissioners or
Board Members?
No
Are you available and committed to complete the term applied
for?
Yes
Fair Political Practices No
Excluding your principal residence, do you or your spouse
own real property in Palo Alto?
No
How did you learn about the vacancy on the Utilities Advisory
Commission?
Email from the City
Personal Information
1 of 4
Read the code, and check only ONE option below:I request that the City of Palo Alto redact my home address, phone
numbers, and email address from the attached Board and Commission
Application prior to posting to the City’s website.
Consent to Publish Personal Information on the City of Palo Alto Website
Occupation Retired Executive
Please list your relevant education, training, experience,
certificates of training, licenses, and professional registration.
If describing work experience, please include
company/employer name and occupation.
• Retired high-tech marketing executive, 30+ years of experience in
Silicon Valley companies such as Intel, 3Com, Adobe, and start-ups,
mostly at the Director and VP level.
• Director of Marketing for Oorja Fuel Cells, a clean energy
company(2015-2016).
• Extensive experience working collaboratively in teams.
• Member of the Board of Directors of Cable Co-op (1992-1998)..
Subscribers-owned cable TV company serving Palo Alto households.
Very similar to a publicly owned
utility.
• MBA, Harvard Business School.
• MSEE, Ecole Superieure d'Electricite (France). Studied electricity
generation and transport.
• BS. Advanced mathematics and physics
Please describe your involvement in community activities,
volunteer and civic organizations, including dates and any
offices held.
• Human Relations Commission, including Vice-chair and Chair:2008-
2014.
• Founder and Organizer of Palo Alto World Music Day: 2009-2019
• Member of the Board of Directors, Palo Alto Recreation Foundation
(PARF): 2010-2020
• Graduate of the Palo Alto Citizen Police Academy: 2019
• Member of the Community Advisory Group to the Police Chief: 2010-
2012
• Member of Steering Committee for Measure A (school parcel tax): 2005
• Treasurer of the Palo Alto PTA Council: 2004-2007.
• Member of the Board of Directors, Cable Co-op: 1992-1998.
Personal and Job Experience
1. Why are you interested in serving on the Utilities Advsory
Commission and what experience would you bring to the
position?
Three examples regarding my life-long strong interest in energy and
utility issues:
Director of Marketing for Oorja Fuel Cells (2015-2016).
Oorja was a clean energy company that manufactured power systems
based
on methanol fuel cells. These systems reduced operating costs and
greenhouse gas emissions in a wide variety of applications such as
wireless telecommunications and materials handling.
Member of the Board of Directors of Cable Co-op (1992-1998)
Cable Co-op was a cable TV company serving 28,000 households
around
Palo Alto. It was owned by its subscribers. In many ways its mission and
its functioning were very similar to those of a publicly owned utility.
MSEE, Ecole Superieure d'Electricite (France).
My engineering School was partially funded by EDF (Électricité de
France), a state-owned utility which is one of the largest utilities in the
world. I studied electricity generation and distribution in great detail and
visited many different types of power generation plants.
Application Questions
2 of 4
2. Please describe an issue that recently came before the
Commission that is of particular interest to you and describe
why you are interested in it. If you have never been to a
Commission meeting, you can view archived videos from the
Midpen Media Center.
Reliability and Resiliency Strategic Plan. Resiliency is an important issue
for the
Commission that I am very interested in. We need to look at what can be
done to decrease the frequency and duration of power outages by
looking at all the
factors that impact reliability: equipment quality, equipment placement,
redundancies, risk management, human factors, etc.
Grid Modernization Project. As we increasingly move away from
combustion engine cars and gas appliances, and increase our
population with mandated housing, the demands on the electric grid will
substantially increase above and beyond what the current grid can
accommodate. This is a critical issue for the future of Palo Alto.
3. If appointed, what specific goals would you like to see the
Utilities Advisory Commission achieve, and how would you
help in the process?
I would put to use my analytical and problem solving skills to look at:
The progress already achieved with the deployment of our Advanced
Metering Infrastructure (AMI) and how that improves conservation of
water and energy, as well as how our customers are using the
information provided to better manage their consumption. Are we now
getting tangible benefits from AMI besides labor savings?
Improving reliability and resiliency of the electric grid. Look at the entire
chain of factors that impact them. How can we combine grid
modernization with improvements in reliability?
Continue the focus on: clean energy, reducing greenhouse gas
emissions, transition from gas to electricity, and improving sustainability.
Continue to improve recycling rates, but focus also on reducing waste in
the first place.
Energy conservation programs, green building codes, etc.
4. Utilities Advisory Commission Members work with the
documents listed below. If you have experience with any of
these documents, please describe that experience. Experience
with these documents is not required for selection.
I read some of these documents in the past and will definitely spend
more time on them if selected for the position.
I participated in a community workshop for the update of the Strategic
Plan, in 2017.
I do, also, closely follow news about the City utilities, mostly through the
Palo Alto Weekly.
If you'd like to provide any additional documents, please
upload below.
Please confirm that you have read the Boards and
Commissions Handbook.
Yes
Signature Name of signatory: Claude Ezran
3 of 4
Date Completed 02/13/2025
4 of 4
Utilities Advisory Commission Application
Submitted on 10 February 2025, 11:53am
Receipt number 53
Related form version 11
Name Phil Metz
Cell Phone Number
Home Phone Number
Email Address
Are you a Palo Alto resident?Yes
Address
City Palo Alto
Postal Code 94306
Do you have any relatives or members of your household who
are employed by the City of Palo Alto, who are currently
serving on the City Council, or who are Commissioners or
Board Members?
No
Are you available and committed to complete the term applied
for?
Yes
Fair Political Practices No
Excluding your principal residence, do you or your spouse
own real property in Palo Alto?
No
How did you learn about the vacancy on the Utilities Advisory
Commission?
Email from the City
Personal Information
1 of 4
Read the code, and check only ONE option below:I request that the City of Palo Alto redact my home address, phone
numbers, and email address from the attached Board and Commission
Application prior to posting to the City’s website.
Consent to Publish Personal Information on the City of Palo Alto Website
Occupation Retired researcher, consultant, and business executive.
Please list your relevant education, training, experience,
certificates of training, licenses, and professional registration.
If describing work experience, please include
company/employer name and occupation.
Education:
• PhD in physics
• MBA in marketing
Experience:
• Commissioner, Utilities Advisory Commission (2021-present)
• Co-founder, Director, and Vice President, BioPhysical Economics
Institute (2020-2024)
• Research Fellow, Project Drawdown (2018-2019)
• 11 years as sustainability consultant and researcher
• 10+ years of R&D in energy efficiency and renewable energy, including
electric heat pumps, cool / green roofs, solar, and community energy
systems
• 16 years consulting for energy-related businesses, including electric
utilities
• 6 years as renewable energy business development executive
• 3 years as Palo Alto emergency services volunteer, both as BPC and
as CERT
Please describe your involvement in community activities,
volunteer and civic organizations, including dates and any
offices held.
Since 2017, my full-time focus has been energy and environmental
sustainability research, advocacy, and writing.
Commissioner UAC (2021-present)
BioPhysical Economics Institute (BPEI) (2020-2024): Together with a
group of scientists, economists, and executives, I co-founded BPEI and
served as Director and Vice President. BPEI, a non-partisan non-profit,
works to bring the natural sciences into economic analysis and financial
decision making.
Project Drawdown (2018-2019): I served as a Research Fellow, focusing
on heat pumps, district heating, and cool roofs to help the world reach
“Drawdown” of atmospheric greenhouse gases.
Emergency Services Volunteer (ESV) (2017-present): Both a block
preparedness coordinator (BPC) and a community emergency response
team (CERT) volunteer.
International Rescue Committee (IRC) volunteer (2018-present): Since
2018 I have volunteered as a mentor with the IRC to help immigrants
obtain jobs in the US.
Personal and Job Experience
1. Why are you interested in serving on the Utilities Advsory
Commission and what experience would you bring to the
position?
I want to help CPAU become a leader in all its utilities to benefit the Palo
Alto Community and as a model for others:
• Grid Modernization: CPAU plans to spend $300M+ but lacks a detailed
Application Questions
2 of 4
plan for how the grid would address new technologies, regulations, and
SCAP needs.
• Emergency preparedness: CPAU has preparation for water operations
in an emergency, but not for electricity.
• Fiber to the home (FTTH): I was proud to help get FTTH off the ground
but there’s much more to do.
• Commercial energy / data centers strategy: “Commercial” represents
80% of CPAU’s electric load and, due to AI, datacenters may become
giant new loads. CPAU needs a plan for these changes.
• Operational improvement: Esp. how to learn from mistakes and not
repeat them.
Relevant experience I bring to UAC includes 4 years as a UAC
commissioner, and expertise in physics, especially energy and
renewable energy systems; biophysical economics; the utility industry;
building energy systems; and executive mgmt.
2. Please describe an issue that recently came before the
Commission that is of particular interest to you and describe
why you are interested in it. If you have never been to a
Commission meeting, you can view archived videos from the
Midpen Media Center.
The #1 issue is modernizing the CPAU distribution grid. I am interested
because of the cost – $300M+ CAPEX – and because implementation
will determine Palo Alto’s contribution to renewable energy worldwide.
But CPAU has not articulated its goals, strategy for achieving those
goals, a detailed roadmap for what will be done when, and ways to
reduce expenditures. I’m especially concerned that we address:
1. New technologies: The future grid will be fundamentally different from
today’s grid. So, Grid Mod needs to anticipate those changes, for
example, local distributed energy resources (DER) such as solar +
storage; microgrids; demand side management (DSM); electric vehicles
(EVs), and advanced metering (AMI).
2. SCAP: Delivering the energy called for by the City’s SCAP plan?
3. Resilience: During normal operations and during emergencies.
4. Other exogenous factors, esp. energy supply, regulations, and
demand shifts, such as proliferation of large data centers.
3. If appointed, what specific goals would you like to see the
Utilities Advisory Commission achieve, and how would you
help in the process?
I would like to help CPAU reestablish its leadership in the utility industry:
1. Get Grid Mod on track: Develop a detailed strategy and plan,
addressing (as outlined above) new transformational technologies, SCAP
needs, resilience, and other exogenous factors, including energy supply,
new regulations, and demand shifts.
2. Emergency preparedness across all utilities. For electricity, CPAU
assumes a worst-case emergency of 24-48 hours. That is inconsistent
with the Palo Alto Office of Emergency Services (OES) which
recommends that we prepare for 1-2 weeks of no electricity, no water,
and no help. CPAU needs to develop its emergency preparedness
consistent with the OES “design emergency” and in collaboration with
OES.
3. Make FTTH a success. As a member of UAC’s FTTH subcommittee, I
was proud to play a role in getting FTTH off the ground – after decades
of effort. I think we arrived at a good solution. And now we need to
implement.
4. Utilities Advisory Commission Members work with the
documents listed below. If you have experience with any of
these documents, please describe that experience. Experience
with these documents is not required for selection.
As a UAC commissioner since 2021, I am very familiar with and have
contributed to all of the CPAU-related plans listed and their subsequent
revisions. Some of the contributions I’m most proud of include:
• Utilities strategic plan and Grid Mod: Commissioner Memos articulating
improvements with commissioners Johnston and Phillips.
• Emergency preparedness: Commissioner Memos setting direction with
commissioners Bowie and Gupta.
In addition, I have served on the Palo Alto S/CAP Ad Hoc Working
Group, so I am very familiar with and have contributed to the S/CAP plan
as it has evolved.
3 of 4
If you'd like to provide any additional documents, please
upload below.
Please confirm that you have read the Boards and
Commissions Handbook.
Yes
Signature Name of signatory: Phil Metz
Date Completed 02/07/2025
4 of 4
Utilities Advisory Commission Application
Submitted on 8 February 2025, 8:56pm
Receipt number 56
Related form version 11
Name Olgu
Cell Phone Number
Home Phone Number
Email Address
Are you a Palo Alto resident?Yes
Address
City Palo Alto
Postal Code 94306
Do you have any relatives or members of your household who
are employed by the City of Palo Alto, who are currently
serving on the City Council, or who are Commissioners or
Board Members?
No
Are you available and committed to complete the term applied
for?
Yes
Fair Political Practices No
Excluding your principal residence, do you or your spouse
own real property in Palo Alto?
No
How did you learn about the vacancy on the Utilities Advisory
Commission?
City Website
Personal Information
1 of 3
Read the code, and check only ONE option below:I request that the City of Palo Alto redact my home address, phone
numbers, and email address from the attached Board and Commission
Application prior to posting to the City’s website.
Consent to Publish Personal Information on the City of Palo Alto Website
Occupation Data Scientist/Software Engineer
Please list your relevant education, training, experience,
certificates of training, licenses, and professional registration.
If describing work experience, please include
company/employer name and occupation.
I have worked for SCE and PG&E almost 10 years where I
led/participated in various RFO proposals and their evaluations as well
as various gas and electric forecast/strategy/procurements.
Please describe your involvement in community activities,
volunteer and civic organizations, including dates and any
offices held.
Currently, I am the VP of merchandise at Gunn High School Sports
Boosters as well as the coach for my daughter's Girls Scout's Robotics
team.
Personal and Job Experience
1. Why are you interested in serving on the Utilities Advsory
Commission and what experience would you bring to the
position?
I am interested in serving on the UAC because I am passionate about
ensuring that our community has access to safe, reliable, cost efficient,
and sustainable utility services. I believe that thoughtful utility planning is
essential for economic growth, environmental responsibility, and the well-
being of residents. I will bring a strong background in
engineering/data/strategy with experience in energy management &
development & procurement to advise the board and the City Council. In
my previous roles at SCE and PG&E, I evaluated RFOs and
procurements for various products/resources which gave me insight into
the challenges and opportunities in utility management. I am confident
that my ability to analyze current challenges, engage with stakeholders,
and develop practical solutions will contribute to informed decision-
making on the commission. I look forward to collaborating with fellow
members to enhance the efficiency and sustainability of our community’s
utilities.
2. Please describe an issue that recently came before the
Commission that is of particular interest to you and describe
why you are interested in it. If you have never been to a
Commission meeting, you can view archived videos from the
Midpen Media Center.
Grid modernization project would be one that particularly interest me. As
I worked on modeling various parts of the CA grid and forecasted hourly
nodal prices in CA, I will utilize my expertise to help contribute to UAC.
3. If appointed, what specific goals would you like to see the
Utilities Advisory Commission achieve, and how would you
help in the process?
I would like to see a robust system where an informative UAC that will
guide and work with City Council effectively to accomplish the common
goal of providing safe, reliable, cost efficient, and sustainable utility
services to the city. I will utilize my utility background from SCE and
PG&E to contribute and be a part of that robust system.
4. Utilities Advisory Commission Members work with the
documents listed below. If you have experience with any of
these documents, please describe that experience. Experience
with these documents is not required for selection.
I have experience in utility strategy, short/long term electric and gas
procurement planning & execution, and grid changes needed to support
electrification.
Application Questions
2 of 3
If you'd like to provide any additional documents, please
upload below.
Resume_Olgu_Tanriverdi.pdf
Please confirm that you have read the Boards and
Commissions Handbook.
Yes
Signature Name of signatory: Olgu Tanriverdi
Date Completed 02/08/2025
3 of 3
Olgu Tanriverdi
2
Real Software Systems - Woodland Hills, CA May '06 - Apr '07
Technical Consultant
• Worked in a fast-paced startup to design and develop contract management software that calculates rights, royalties, and profit
participation for media giants such as SONY, MGM, Activision, EA, BBC etc. based on clients’ business requirements
University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) Sep '00 - May '06
Research & Teaching Assistant, Flight System Research Center
• Conducted research with NASA, NREL, and DOE on mathematical modeling of horizontal axis wind turbines and developed
nonlinear pitch and torque control algorithms to operate them on their optimal max generation point.
• Lectured in Numerical Analysis, Probability, Physics, Systems & Signals, Electronic Circuits, and C++ Programming
Patents & Trade Secrets
• O Tanriverdi, inventor; Gas Turbine Engine Controller with Event Trigger (US Patent No: 9,002,617; Issued Date April 12, 2015)
• O Tanriverdi, inventor; System and Method to Measure 3D Flow (US Patent No: 9,030,667; Issued Date May 12, 2015)
Conference Papers
• O. Tanriverdi, ”Ancillary Service Price Forecast in Metrix ND,” Envision 2009 Itron Conference, Phoenix, AZ, September 2009
• O. Tanriverdi and A.V. Balakrishnan, ”Maximize Wind Turbine Power Output in Transient Region,” Proc. AWEA (American
Wind Energy Association), Windpower 2006 Workshop, Pittsburgh, PA, June 2006
• O. Tanriverdi and A.V. Balakrishnan, ”Pitch & Torque Control to Maximize Wind Turbine Power Output in Partial Load
Region,” Proc. EWEC (European Wind Energy Conference), Business Science Technology, Electrical System Design, Integration
and Control/Technical Track, Athens, Greece, February 2006
Professional Licenses & Certifications
• Coursera Machine Learning, Neural Networks & Deep Learning, Improving Deep Neural Networks
• FAST.AI Deep Learning Part I & II
• Certified Lean Six Sigma Green Belt DFSS
• Certified Mediator by CA Dispute Resolution Program and LA County Community and Senior Services
Volunteer Services & Activities
• VP Merchandise Gunn High School Sports Boosters May '24 - Present
• VP Scholarship NuEnergy Employee Resource Group, Diversity&Inclusion at PG&E Oct '16 – Jan ‘18
• VP Events Asian Pacific American Forum Affinity Group at GE Mar '13 - May '15
• Member of IEEE Control Systems and Computer Science Societies Mar '00 - Present
LACBA Dispute Resolution Services - West Hollywood, CA Mar '07 - Sep '07
• Analyzed the dispute and provided resolution to community residents seeking Mediation Services
Education
University of California, Los Angeles
• Ph.D. (all but unfinished thesis) in Electrical Engineering, major in Control Systems. May '06
Minors: Digital Signal Processing and Engineering Optimization
• Engineer in Electrical Engineering Jun '03
• Master of Science in Electrical Engineering Jun '02
Yildiz Technical University - Istanbul, Turkiye Jun '98
• Bachelor of Science in Electronics and Communications Engineering
Awards
• Graduate Student Fellowship from the Electrical Engineering Department at UCLA Sep '00 - Mar '06
• Dean’s Special Young Alumni Award: Received Bachelor of Science degree at age of 20 Jun '98
• Placed 6th in 1997 Best Model of Turkiye Competition Aug '97
Computer Skills
• C++, Python, Fortran, C#, Google OR-Tools, SQL, Scikit-learn, TensorFlow, CPLEX, .NET, Matlab, Databricks, PySpark, SVN,
Git, Perforce, Azure Functions, Kusto, REST APIs, Domo, Tableau, MicroStrategy, Adobe Analytics, Airflow, DoWhy, PSM
Utilities Advisory Commission Application
Submitted on 23 February 2025, 1:12pm
Receipt number 58
Related form version 11
Name Barry Wolf
Cell Phone Number
Home Phone Number
Email Address
Are you a Palo Alto resident?Yes
Address
City Palo Alto
Postal Code 94303
Do you have any relatives or members of your household who
are employed by the City of Palo Alto, who are currently
serving on the City Council, or who are Commissioners or
Board Members?
No
Are you available and committed to complete the term applied
for?
Yes
Fair Political Practices No
Excluding your principal residence, do you or your spouse
own real property in Palo Alto?
No
How did you learn about the vacancy on the Utilities Advisory
Commission?
Email from the City
Personal Information
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Read the code, and check only ONE option below:I request that the City of Palo Alto redact my home address, phone
numbers, and email address from the attached Board and Commission
Application prior to posting to the City’s website.
Consent to Publish Personal Information on the City of Palo Alto Website
Occupation Research Scientist
Please list your relevant education, training, experience,
certificates of training, licenses, and professional registration.
If describing work experience, please include
company/employer name and occupation.
Biochemical engineer with 26 years of experience in the biotechnology
industry and academia:
• 21 years optimizing mammalian cell culture processes for protein
production
• 2 years investigating the regulation of a transcription factor gene
• 3 years designing and validating biopharmaceutical processes
EDUCATION
Ph.D. Chemical Engineering 2001
M.S.E. Chemical Engineering 1996
University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
B.S. Mechanical Engineering, B.A. Biology / Philosophy minor 1992
Rutgers University, New Brunswick, New Jersey
Please describe your involvement in community activities,
volunteer and civic organizations, including dates and any
offices held.
Acterra EV Ambassador (volunteer), approximately 5 years
Personal and Job Experience
1. Why are you interested in serving on the Utilities Advsory
Commission and what experience would you bring to the
position?
As an EV enthusiast and engineer (who only owns EVs), I am aware of
the rapid electrification of transportation and buildings and understand
the need for utility planning to meet the needs of increased electricity
demand while also accounting for rooftop solar/BESS at C&I and homes
in Palo Alto. I am acutely aware of the effects of climate change on our
water supply, our aging water supply infrastructure, and appreciate the
importance of high quality water and high quality water service to Palo
Alto residents.
2. Please describe an issue that recently came before the
Commission that is of particular interest to you and describe
why you are interested in it. If you have never been to a
Commission meeting, you can view archived videos from the
Midpen Media Center.
I am interested in how microgrids comprised of solar PV and BESS can
improve the resilience, reliability, and cost effectiveness of the delivery of
electricity to all users in Palo Alto. I also believe the Palo Alto Airport
should be a pioneer in electric aviation.
3. If appointed, what specific goals would you like to see the
Utilities Advisory Commission achieve, and how would you
help in the process?
I am especially interested in helping to promote home electrification, EV
ownership, planning for V2H and potentially V2G in Palo Alto, ensuring
adequate transformer resources and reliability transmission lines to
accommodate the growing electrification of homes and businesses, while
also realizing that private investment in rooftop solar and BESS can work
in synergy with the Palo Alto Utilities infrastructure to keep costs low for
all stokeholds.
4. Utilities Advisory Commission Members work with the
documents listed below. If you have experience with any of
these documents, please describe that experience. Experience
I am not familiar with these documents but am planning to read the
documents relevant to electricity.
Application Questions
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with these documents is not required for selection.
If you'd like to provide any additional documents, please
upload below.
Please confirm that you have read the Boards and
Commissions Handbook.
Yes
Signature Name of signatory: Barry F. Wolf
Date Completed 02/23/2025
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