HomeMy WebLinkAbout22 - Confirmation of Nominations to Fill the Unscheduled Vacancy on the Board of Library TrusteesQ �EwPpRT
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FROM:
CITY OF
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City Council Staff Report
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TITLE:
ABSTRACT:
August 22, 2023
Agenda Item No. 22
HONORABLE MAYOR AND MEMBERS OF THE CITY COUNCIL
Leilani I. Brown, City Clerk - 949-644-3005,
(brown@newportbeachca.gov
Eric Bryan, Deputy City Clerk, ebryan@newportbeachca.gov
949-644-3006
Confirmation of Nominations to Fill the Unscheduled Vacancy on the
Board of Library Trustees
On July 18, 2023, Ash Kumra resigned from his position on the Board of Library Trustees.
Due to his resignation, the City Council has the opportunity to fill the vacant position
pursuant to the City Charter, City Council Policy A-2 (Boards, Commissions ana
Committees), and the Maddy Act.
RECOMMENDATIONS:
a) Determine this action is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA)
pursuant to Sections 15060(c)(2) and 15060(c)(3) of the CEQA Guidelines because
this action will not result in a physical change to the environment, directly or indirectly;
and
b) Confirm the nominations of Antonella Castro and Timothy Rief to fill the vacancy on
the Board of Library Trustees.
DISCUSSION:
On July 18, 2023, Ash Kumra resigned from his position on the Board of Library Trustees.
Pursuant to City Council Policy A-2, Boards, Commissions and Committees, the City
Council's new appointee to the Board of Library Trustees will serve the balance of the
unexpired term that ends on June 30, 2026.
Pursuant to City Council Policy A-2 and the Maddy Act, the City Clerk prepared and
posted a Notice of Vacancy on Tuesday, July 18, 2023, in the City Clerk's Office, at the
Central Library, on the bulletin board in the City Council Chambers, and on the City's
website. In addition, the Notice of Vacancy was published in the Daily Pilot on Saturday,
July 22, 2023. As per the Notice, applications were accepted by the City Clerk's Office
until noon on Wednesday, August 2, 2023.
Pursuant to City Council Policy A-2, Mayor Noah Blom appointed himself, Mayor Pro Tern
Will O'Neill, and Council Member Lauren Kleiman to the ad hoc Appointments Committee.
At the conclusion of the application period, the applications were forwarded to the ad hoc
Appointments Committee for its review and scheduling of interviews. Interviews were
conducted on Tuesday, August 8, 2023.
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Confirmation of Nominations to Fill the Unscheduled Vacancy
on the Board of Library Trustees
August 22, 2023
Page 2
Based upon the interviews, the ad hoc Appointments Committee recommends the
nomination of Antonella Castro and Timothy Rief. Copies of their applications are
attached hereto as Attachment A.
Appointment to the Board of Library Trustees will take place at the Tuesday,
September 12, 2023 City Council meeting.
FISCAL IMPACT:
There is no fiscal impact related to this item.
ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW
Staff recommends the City Council find this action is not subject to the California
Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to Sections 15060(c)(2) (the activity will not
result in a direct or reasonably foreseeable indirect physical change in the environment)
and 15060(c)(3) (the activity is not a project as defined in Section 15378) of the CEQA
Guidelines, California Code of Regulations, Title 14, Division 6, Chapter 3, because it has
no potential for resulting in physical change to the environment, directly or indirectly.
NOTICING:
The agenda item has been noticed according to the Brown Act (72 hours in advance of
the meeting at which the City Council considers the item).
ATTACHMENT:
Attachment A — Applications
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ATTACHMENT A
JUL 24'23 taM745
RFC'D CITY CLERKS OFFIC
APPLICATION FORAPPOINTIVE POSITION
FOR OFFICE USE ONLY CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH
100 Civic Center Drive
ResidenceDistrl Newport Reach, CA 92660
Verified by City Clerk (949) 644-3005
Pax (949) 644-3039
DIRECTIONS: One application can be used for all the appointive positions you are applying for. Applications should be filled out
completely sothatthe City Council mayfully evaluate your qualifications. It is the responsibility of the applicant to familiarize themselves
with the duties and responsibilities of the position(s) applied for. Detailed information outlining the responsibilities of the positions can
be obtained from the City Clerk's Office or on the City's website: www.newportbeachca.gov (City Government/Boards, Commissions and
Committees). Applications will be kept on file for two years for the positions) applied for. If you are not selected for appointment during
that period of time, it will be necessary foryou to re-submitan application if you are still interested in being considered.
NOTICE: Section 702 of the City Charter requires that members of Boards or Commissions appointed by the City Council shall be fromthe
qualified electors oft he City. This document is a public record and may be posted onthe internet.
NAME OF BOARD, COMMISSION OR COMMITTEE: Board of Library Trustees
Name: Castro I Antonella IAloma
(Last)
Residence Address (required):
How long have you lived in Newport Beach?
Business Address:
(First)
zip Code:
a years Home/Cell #:
(Middle)
Business Phone: I I I I I I I I 1=
Email Address: � I
Have you ever been convicted of any crime or violation of any law or statute other than minor traffic violations?
FE NO ❑ YES (If yes, attach separate sheet with explanation)
NOTICE: Pursuant to Section 702 of the City Charter, no members of Boards or commissions shall hold any paid office
or employment inthe City government.
Do you currently hold anypaid office or employment with the City of Newport Beach, including but not limitecito contracted services?
Q NO F1 YES (If yes, attach separate sheet with explanation)
If applying for a position on the Finance Committee, have you declared bankruptcy in the last 10 years? No 0 YES
Please state any past, current or foreseeable future financial interests of any kind that may conflict with the Board, Commission or
Committeeyou are applying for.
N/A
WNIINUt IUFAUt IWU
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Name and Location of Colleges]
Universities Attended
Major
Degree
Last Year
Attended
Loyola Law School Los Angeles
Juris Doctorate
JD
2008
UC Irvine
CrmUWAs trVFWwV rAS«+.11�h r
BA, BA
2004
Prior or Current Civic Experience (include membership in
professional, charity or community organization)
office Held
(if any)
Dates of
Membership
Newport Beach Foundation
Chairwoman
2017-present
OCUnited Way
boa�afOir—,inm,Chair uniled4StWentSuccess
2014-present
Newport Beach Public Library Foundation
Board of Directors
2023-present
Please see attached Resume for additional organizations
Occupational History. Begin with your present or most recent position. List all positions separately held for the last five years.
Firm or Organization
Type of Business
Title
Dates of Employment
Solo Practicioner
Legal services
Outside Legal Counsel
2016-Present
References. Include names of at least two residents of Newport Beach who are not officially connected with the City.
1. Name Lucy Rawlins Address Phone No. I
2. Name Alia Batniji Address I Phone No. [
Summarize why you wish to serve the City of New part Beach on aboard, commission orcomm ittee. Include any special qualifications
you have which are particularly appropriate to the position for which you are applying.
Please see attached response labeled Exhibit A.
I certify that all statements made on this application are true and correct to the best of my knowledge. I have read and understand the
duties and responsibilities of the particular position(s) that I am applying for and authorize the release of this information on the internet.
[BOX MUST BE CHECKED IF SUBMITTING ELECTRONICALLY]
F 1 I Signature Antonella A. Castro Date July 21, 2023
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ANTONELLA A. CASTRO, ESQ.
.I4LYIYILIYi .................................. ........YlI....... ........... .............................YY.IYHIHIL
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE
Meta (f/k/a Faeebook, Inc.)
Contingent'WorkerfOutside Counsel, ICM
(infrastructure, construction management)
and Legal Group
912019-Present
Assist internal business teams and legal department in the negotiation of construction and
design agreements for data center, retrofit and campus projects.
o Example, worked in partnership with all internal business units (Legal, Project
Controls, Pre -Con, Infrastructure Construction Management (ICM)) to lead drafting
and negotiation of the U.S. master construction agreement for new builds with eight
(8) general contractors.
o Prepared training materials and conducted training to internal stakeholders on
administration and enforcement of the new master construction agreements.
Provide ongoing input and advice to internal stakeholders, regarding contracting strategies on
various types of projects, including, best practices for utilizing various standard agreements for
retrofit, new build, and tenant improvement projects and labor ordering.
Draft and develop templates such as master agreements, work orders, and change orders_
Revise and draft construction and design agreements for data center, retrofits and interior
buildouts for offices.
Karavas, Kiely, Schloss and Whitman LLP
Special Of Counsel
612019-211f2022
• Represent borrowers and lenders in the negotiation and drafting of loan agreements and
related documents for real estate finance transactions. including, senior debt, note
purchases, mezzanine loans, and cc -lender financings.
• Represent developers in acquisition, financing and construction of real estate projects.
• Represent landlords and tenants in commercial lease negotiations.
■ Represent users in negotiation of master services agreements for plug in play office
space.
• Draft and negotiate construction and design related agreements for single and multi-
family construction for both homebuilders and individual owners.
MOBILITIE, LLC, Newport Beach, CA
Outside Special Counsel
In -House Senior Counsel
2016-2020;2022-Present
2014-2016
Draft and negotiate agreements, including, master agreements related to construction,
installation and operation of distributed antennae systems and small cell wireless
networks including, but not limited to, venue lease agreements, wireless carrier sublease
agreements, designlconstruction/installation, and maintenance agreements.
Create master construction agreements for nationwide wireless construction projects.
Supervise, manage, and train associate attorneys.
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• Collaborate with internal business units (sales, construction, and procurement) in
executing and delivering project and venue agreements.
■ Draft and negotiate various contracts related to product purchase, installation, software
licensing, office systems, independent contractors, settlement of claims, confidentiality,
and non -disclosure.
■ Oversee and manage outside Counsel on litigation matters and special projects.
■ Create templates for wireless infrastructure projects and conduct training on how to
implement and utilize the templates.
■ Support and advise company leadership on status of ongoing projects and legal issues.
■ Assist asset management teams on day-to-day operational matters.
KAP7 International, Irvine, CA
Outside General Counsel
11/2015-1/2020
• Negotiate and draft agreements related to global business of the company including,
distribution, financing, license, sponsorship, manufacturing, employment, and services.
• Advise executive leadership and the Board of Directors on legal issues including
corporate and employment related issues.
■ Negotiate addition of new products and verticals.
■ Negotiate international distribution agreements and secure global trademarks.
■ Support executive leadership in day-to-day operations.
■ Manage outside counsel.
PAUL HASTINGS LLP, Costa Mesa, CA
Associate — Real Estate
9/2008-9/2014
• Draft agreements related to real estate secured loans, construction, joint ventures,
acquisitions, and dispositions, and leasing.
■ Represent borrowers, private equity groups, developers, technology, and social media
companies, institutional investors, landlords, and tenants in large scale real estate
transactions including, real estate finance, acquisition, and disposition of portfolios,
distressed assets, new construction, and leasing.
■ Advise clients (internal and external) on real estate issues in connection with mergers,
credit facilities and asset and stock acquisitions/sales, and negotiate and draft real estate
related documents.
• Conduct property due diligence including title and survey review and negotiation for
large scale acquisitions and financings.
• Experience in data center construction, campus development and construction, and
tenant improvement build -outs, for technology and social media companies.
UNITED STATES DISTRICT COURT, CENTRAL, WESTERN DIVISION, Los Angeles, CA
Extern to Federal Magistrate Honorable Andrew J. Wistrich 5/2006-8/2006
Drafted discovery motions and opinions; attended hearings and settlement conferences.
Wrote report and recommendations for writ of habeas corpus.
Researched cases and statutes for various legal issues including civil rights and patent
law.
22-6
THE RODARTI GROUP/PROJECT DELIVERY SERVICES, LLC, Aliso Viejo, CA
Project Coordinator/Contract Administrator 2003-2005
■ Prepared, reviewed, and revised real estate development and construction contracts.
+ Developed and prepared project presentations for existing and prospective clients.
■ Managed and supervised real estate development projects.
• Designed and implemented construction risk management protocols.
• Created, developed, and implemented company marketing strategy.
PUBLIC DEFENDER SERVICE, Washington, D.C.
Felony One Investigative Intern
Su►nmer 2003
■ Drafted memoranda and other documents necessary for the preparation of a client's
legal defense. Interviewed witnesses, performed field investigations, and researched
legal issues for trial preparation.
PUBLICATIONS
Published Author Truth in Broadcasting Act: Can It Move the Media Away From Indoctrinating and
Back to Informing? Loyola Entertainment Law Review (Vol. 27 issue II, 2006-2007).
RECOGNITION/AWARDS
• Named to Super Lawyer's List of Southern California Rising Stars 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021
• Recognized Top 50 Women Attorneys by Los Angeles Magazine 2021
+ Recognized Top 25 Up and Coming Attorneys OC by Super Lawyer's 2021
• Nominated for a Women of the Year Award 2018
■ OC Metro Magazine's 40 Under 40 Recipient 2014
• Recipient of Real Property Law Section's Morning Star Award 2013
• Nominated for a Women in Business Award by the Orange County Business Journal 2011
LEADERSHIP POSITIONSICOMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT
• Member Newport Beach & Company Board of Directors
■ Member Board of Directors Newport Beach Public Library Foundation
• Member Simon Scholars Advisory Board
• Member of The Newport Beach Foundation Board of Directors, Chair
o (Vice Chair 2018-August 2022)
• Member United Way Women United Global Leadership Council
• Member of KAP7 International's Board of Directors
• Member Orange County United Way's Board of Directors
o Chair United for Student Success
a Co -Chair Advocacy Committee
o Member Executive Committee
o Member of Task Force for United to End Homelessness
+ Member Advisory Board of Directors to Youngry Inc.
■ Founding Member Contemporaries Group — Orange County Museum of Art
■ Member of The Elite OC's Board of Directors
+ Chair, Orange County United Way's Women Looking Forward
(Vice Chair 2010-2012)
• Member Advisory Committee of American Heart Association's OC Chapter
3
2023-Present
2023-Present
2020-Present
2018-Present
2017-2023
2008-Present
2015-Present
2017-2019
2014
2016-2018
2012-2014
2013-2014
22-7
• Board of Directors 2012-2014
a California Young Lawyers Association of the State of California
o Real Property Section Liaison
o Business Law Section Liaison
o Canyon Acres Children and Family Services 2010-2012
EDUCATION
Loyola Law School, Los Angeles
• ]uris Doctorate Cum Laude/Order of the Coif
University of California at Irvine
2008
■ Bachelor of Arts in Crime, Law, and Society 2004
• Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Social Behavior 2004
• UCI's NCAA Division I Women's Tennis Team 2000-2002
• Delta Delta Delta Sorority
INTERESTS
• Favorite Place Traveled To — Positano, Italy
■ Favorite Band — Led Zeppelin
• Favorite Team — New York Yankees
• Favorite Book — To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee
■ Craziest Experience— Great White Shark Cage Diving in South Africa
• Favorite People to travel with — Family
4
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EXHIBITA
I believe in the power of education to change an individuaI's circumstances. I have experienced this
firsthand watching my mom go back to school one class at a time beginning when I was in 51h grade, and
then both of us in college at the same time; eventually being the first people in our immediate family to
graduate college. During our educational pursuits, we used libraries to study in and access necessary
resources we could not otherwise afford. Our public libraries serve to provide access and resources to
all members of our community regardless of age, gender, race, or viewpoints. Equally as important,
libraries are safe spaces where people can pursue their interests free of judgement or agenda.
The role of the Board of Library Trustees is to act as a steward for our library system. To ensure that all
members of our community are able to enjoy our four branches, and leave enriched by the
programming. The Board also exercises oversight on the Director and her staff to ensure the mission of
the library is being carried out in a neutral manner. We must also make sure the programming being
offered is relevant and appropriate for its intended audience, and that the proper diligence and vetting
has been performed prior to launch. Unfortunately, in this day and age, the "neutrality" and "safe
space" of libraries is starting to be eroded. Without strong leadership at the Trustee level, our library is
at risk for being turned into a place where the viewpoints of those with some margin of control over
what resources are offered and displayed will be disproportionately reflected, and as a result alienate
many of our citizens. Once people believe they are not being represented, they will stop frequenting
the library and eventually the place which was supposed to be a resource far all will only provide tools
for a few who share the same views or who are unable to go elsewhere thus undermining the principles
of what libraries were founded on.
I have the experience to be an effective and strong member of the Board of Library Trustees. I will draw
on my experience as the leadership chair of United 4 Stu dent Success which has given me access to the
OC Board of Education, local high schools, middle schools and elementary schools and provides insight
into the curriculum and needs of thousands of students across Orange County to evaluate any proposed
programming and resources the library staff wants to offer. Further, as a mother of three kids I have a
vested interest in protecting the core values of the library system I brought my toddlers to, a system
focused on developing a passion for literacy and fostering curiosity. Additionally, as a current member
of the Board of the !Newport Beach Public Library Foundation, I am regularly briefed by the library
Director and Board of Trustees on issues the library is facing as well as its needs and focus. I am also
updated on the top books checked out across the library, the programs which are successful and
demands of our citizens. This familiarity with our current library system will allow me to jump right in as
a Trustee. As chairwoman of the Newport Beach Foundation, I understand how to bean effective
leader, run meetings, execute on ideas and collaborate effectively to reach shared goals. I also know
how to listen. I have had numerous parents reach out to me over the past few weeks with serious
concerns over the books being displayed in the children's sections and the new summer reading
program requirements which were being delivered via a third party app. I immediately scheduled an in
person meeting with Library Director, Hartson, where I shared our collective concerns and discussed
steps moving forward. Finally, I am a practicing attorney, and will also be able to assist the Board in
drafting policies, far example, policies that preserve free speech while preventing obscene material from
being displayed and circulated, particularly material targeting children and teens. As you can see from
my experience, I am passionate about education, libraries, and serving our amazing City of Newport
Beach.
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JUL 24'23 HM7.27
REM) (CITY CLERKS OFFIC
APPLICATION FOR APPOINTIVE POSITION
FOR OFFICE USE ONLY
Residence Distri
Verified by d
CITY OF NEWPORT REACH
100 Civic Center Drive
Newport Reach, CA 92660
City Clerk (949) 644-3005
Fax (949) 644-3039
DIRECTIONS: One application can be used for all the appointive positions you are applying for. Applications should be filled out
completely so that the City Council may fully evaluate your qualifications. It is the responsibility of the applicant to familiarize themselves
with the duties and responsibilities of the position(s) applied for. Detailed information outlining the responsibilities of the positions can
be obtained from the City Clerk's Office or on the City's website: www.newportbeachca.gov (City Govern meM/Boards, Commissions and
Committees). Applications will be kept on file fortwo years forthe position(s) applied for. If you are not selected for appointment during
that period of time, it will be necessaryforyou to re -submit an application if you are still interestedin being considered.
NOTICE: Section 702 of the City Chatter requires that members of Boards or Commissions appointed bythe City Council shall be from the
qualified electors of the City. Thisdocument is a public recordand may be posted on the intereet_
NAME OF BOARD, COMMISSION OR COMMITTEE: Board of Ubrary Trustees
Name: Rief Timothy "Chase"
(Last) (First) (Middle)
I
Residence Address (required): Zip Code:
How long have you lived in Newport Beach? 10+ years Home/Cell #: I
Business Address: Business Phone:
Email Address:
Have you ever been convicted of any crime or violation of any law or statute otherthan minor traffic violations?
* NO ❑ YES (If yes, attach separate sheet with explanation}
NOTICE: Pursuant to Section 702 of the City Charter, no members of boards or commissions shall hold any paid office
or employment in the City government.
Do you currently hold any paid office or employment with the Cityof Newport Beach, including but not limited to contracted services?
0 NO ❑ YES (If yes, attach separate sheet with explanation)
If applying for a position on the Finance Committee, have you declared bankruptcy in the last 10 years? NO ❑ YES
Please state any past, current or foreseeable future financial interests of any kind that may conflict with the Board, Commission or
Committeeyou are applying for,
None.
CONTINUE TO PAGE TWO
22-10
Name and Location of Colleges)
Universities Attended
Major
Degree
Last Year
Attended
University of Southern California
Pol Science /Intl Relations
Bachelors
2006
Prior or Current Civic Experience (include membership in
professional, charity or community organization)
Office Held
cif any)
Dates of
Membership
Newport Beach Foundation
Board Member
2018-Present
Andersen DEANS Foundation
Vice President
2021-Present
Occupational History. Begin with your present or most recent position. List all positions separately held for the last five years.
Firm or Organization
Type of Business
Title
Dates of Employment
Rief Media Inc
Marketing Firm
President
2007-Present
Shatterproof Agency
Marketing Firm
Co -Founder
2017- Present
References. Include names of at least two residents of Newport Beach who are not officially connected with the City.
1. Name Reed Glyer Address
2_ Name Brent Leffel Address [
IPhone No.
Phone No.
Summarize why you wish to serve the City of Newport Beach on a board, commission or corn mittee. Include any special qualifications
you have which are particularly appropriate to the position for which you are applying.
Motivated by my family's active engagement with local programs and a deep-rooted involvement in our
community, I aspire to serve on the Board of Library Trustees. My role as a technical lead, overseeing a
diverse team, and my steadfast commitment to the Andersen DEANS foundation have equipped me with
the necessary skills to steer our library's evolution in an ever -digital world. Simultaneously, these
experiences have instilled in me a keen understanding of the community's needs, which I believe is
essential to maintaining our library as a vibrant hub of knowledge, accessible to all and fostering lifelong
learning. With this perspective, I aim to uphold the library's cherished role and ensure it thrives amidst
changing times.
I certify that all statements made on this application are true and correct to the best of my knowledge. I have read and understand the
duties and responsibilities of the particular position(s) that I am applying for and authorize the release of this information on the internet.
[BCX MUST BE CHECKED IF SUBMITTING ELECTRONICALLY]
Signature Date 07121 /2023
22-11