TO: HONORABLE CHAIR AND COMMISSIONERS OF THE PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
FROM: Brian Ambrose, Community Services Director
PREPARED BY: Melvin Racelis, Interim Parks and Community Service Manager
SUBJECT:
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Commission Input on Parks and Community Services Manager Recruitment
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RECOMMENDATION
recommendation
Discuss and provide input regarding the Commission’s desired level of involvement in the recruitment and selection process for the permanent Parks and Community Services Manager position.
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PRIOR ACTION/VOTE
None.
CITY COUNCIL GOAL
Coordinate and deliver responsive, effective community services.
BACKGROUND
The Parks and Community Services Manager position became vacant following the retirement of the previous incumbent. The position is a key leadership role responsible for overseeing the City’s parks, recreation programs, facilities, and community services operations.
In January and February 2026, the City conducted a recruitment for the position; however, it did not result in the selection of a permanent candidate. The City is preparing to move forward with a new recruitment process in the near future. In the interim, Melvin Racelis, Library Manager, is serving as Interim Parks and Community Services Manager.
Staff is seeking Commission input on its preferred level of participation in the upcoming recruitment. The Commission serves in an advisory capacity and may provide valuable perspective on leadership priorities and community needs. Such input would be limited to recruitment processes for Manager-level positions and above.
Potential options for Commission involvement include:
1. No Commission Involvement
2. Two Commissioners appointed by the full commission on an interview panel
3. Three or more Commissioners participate across multiple interview panels, structured to ensure no quorum is present (Brown Act compliant)
4. Full Commission participation in a public meeting (Brown Act compliant)
Commission feedback will help inform the structure of the recruitment process. During the discussion, staff will provide the pros and cons of each option.
FISCAL IMPACT
None.
ATTACHMENTS
1. Parks and Community Services Manager Job Description