HomeMy WebLinkAboutAgenda 11-11-2021; 6 - Orange County Parks and Recreation Council – Appointment Discussion
ORANGE COUNTY
BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
ACTION AGENDA ITEM ABSTRACT
Meeting Date:November 11, 2021
Action Agenda
Item No. 6
SUBJECT: Orange County Parks and Recreation Council – Appointment Discussion
DEPARTMENT: Board of Commissioners
ATTACHMENT(S):
Recommendation
Member and Applicant Summary Sheet
Application for Person Recommended
Applications of Other Applicants
Membership Roster
Applicant Interest List
INFORMATION CONTACT:
Clerk’s Office, 919-245-2130
PURPOSE: To consider an appointment to the Orange County Parks and Recreation Council.
BACKGROUND: The Orange County Parks and Recreation Council consults with and advises
the Department of Environment, Agriculture, Parks and Recreation, and the Board of County
Commissioners on matters affecting parks planning, development and operation; recreation
facilities, policies and programs; and public trails and open space.
The Board of County Commissioners appoints all 12 members with representatives from each of
the county’s townships plus its municipalities.
The following member is recommended for re-appointment for Board consideration:
NAME POSITION
DESCRIPTION
TYPE OF
APPOINTMENT
TERM
EXPIRATION
DATE
Gina Reyman Eno Township Second Full Term 12/31/2024
If the individual listed above is appointed, no vacancies remain.
FINANCIAL IMPACT: There is no financial impact associated with this item.
SOCIAL JUSTICE IMPACT: The following Orange County Social Justice Goal is applicable to
this item:
GOAL: ENABLE FULL CIVIC PARTICIPATION
Ensure that Orange County residents are able to engage government through voting and
volunteering by eliminating disparities in participation and barriers to participation.
1
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT: There is no Orange County Environmental Responsibility Goal
impact associated with this item.
RECOMMENDATION(S): The Manager recommends that the Board discuss an appointment to
the Orange County Parks and Recreation Council.
2
Orange County Parks and Recreation Council
P.O. BOX 8181, 1020 US HWY 70 WEST SUITE 140, NC 27278 (919) 245-2510
October 29, 2021
Renee Price, Chair
Orange County Board of Commissioners
P.O. Box 8181
Hillsborough NC 27278
Re: Recommended Reappointment
Dear Chair Price:
The Orange County Parks and Recreation Council recommends that member Gina
Reyman be re-appointed to a second 3-year term on the Parks and Recreation Council,
ending December 31, 2024.
Throughout her first term, Ms. Reyman has been an active participant on the Council,
showing strong interest in the development and improvement of recreational
opportunities and parks in Orange County.
Thank you for your consideration of this appointment.
Sincerely,
John Greeson, Chair
Parks & Recreation Council
Cc: David Stancil, Director, DEAPR
Xilong Zhao, Vice-Chair, Parks & Recreation Council
3
Name Member or Applicant?Gender Identity Race/Ethnic Background Age Range Township Also Serves on
Andrew Landstrom Member Male Other 35-59 Hillsborough
Cecily Kritz Member Female White Chapel Hill
Christopher Colvin Member Male White 35-59 Chapel Hill
Gina Reyman Member Female White Eno
Greg Hughes Member Male White Hillsborough
Haywood Rhodes Member Male White Hillsborough
John Greeson Member Male White Hillsborough
Mikki Fleming Member Female White 60+Cheeks
Natalie C. Ziemba Member Female White 18-34 Hillsborough
Robert Smith Member Male White Little River
Tim Tippin Member Male White Bingham
Xilong Zhao Member Male Asian American 35-59 Chapel Hill
Christopher Austin Applicant Male White 18-34 Hillsborough
Jessie L. Birckhead Applicant Female White 18-34 Little River
Martin DeWitt Applicant Male White 18-34 Hillsborough
Jaya Nair Applicant Female Asian American 35-59 Chapel Hill Commission for the Environment
Will D. Spoon Applicant Male Other 35-59 Hillsborough
Rebecca Truluck Applicant Female White 18-34 Hillsborough
Orange County Parks and Recreation Council Board Members and Applicants
4
Volunteer Application
Orange County Advisory Boards and Commissions
Gina Reyman Page 1 of 2
Home Address:2721 Armfield Road
Township of Residence: Eno
Zone of Residence:
Ethnic Background:Caucasian
Sex:Female
Phone (Day):9195971002
Phone (Evening):9192414123
Phone (Cell):9195971002
Email:glreyman@icloud.com
Name:Ms. Gina Reyman
Boards/Commissions applied for:
Hillsborough NC 27278
Place of Employment: Legal Aid of North Carolina
Job Title:Managing Attorney
Name Called:
Year of OC Residence:2007
Community Activities/Organizational Memberships:
UNC Law Alumnni Board of Directors
North Carolina Bar Association member
N.C. Advocates for Justice member
Past Service on Orange County Advisory Boards:
none
Supplemental Questions:
Boards/Commissions appointments:
Orange County Parks and Recreation Council
Background, education and experience relevant to this board:
I am a parent with a child participating in the sports and summer camps offered by Orange
Parks and Rec. I ve taken classes myself. I have served as a volunteer girls basketball coach
for multiple seasons. I have past experience serving on advisory councils and boards. My legal
background helps me be able to advocate when necessary and mediate and work through
problems when necessary. I am a single mother and have a perspective that might help the
council see things from all angles. I have a significant background in sports having participated
in team sports as a child and young adult.
Reasons for wanting to serve on this board:
I want to give back to the community in an area where I have an interest and am motivated to
serve.
Conflict of Interest:
5
Page 2 of 2 Gina Reyman
Other Comments:
This application was current on:3/26/2017 11:09:18 AM Date Printed:3/28/2017
6
Volunteer Application
Orange County Advisory Boards and Commissions
Christopher Austin Page 1 of 2
Home Address:2212 Woodbury Dr.
Township of Residence: Hillsborough
Zone of Residence:Hillsborough Town Limits
Ethnic Background:White
Gender Identity:Male
Phone:9196248763
Email:c.austin0310@gmail.com
Name: Christopher Austin
Boards/Commissions applied for:
Hillsborough NC 27278
Name Called:
Year of OC Residence:2015
Community Activities/Organizational Memberships:
I live in Beckett s Ridge community in Hillsborough and serve on the HOA Board as
secretary and architectural chair.
Past Service on Orange County Advisory Boards:
None
Age Range:18-34
BOCC Elections Advisory Group
Background, education and experience relevant to this board:
I live in Orange county and am a voter.
Reasons for wanting to serve on this board:
To serve the community and donate my time.
Conflict of Interest:
Contribution to the diversity of viewpoints on this board:
Every individual provides an independent perspective
7
Page 2 of 2 Christopher Austin
Other Comments:
This application was current on:11/3/2020 9:22:28 AM Date Printed:2/24/2021
Boards/Commissions appointments:
Commission for the Environment
Background, education and experience relevant to this board:
Chemical Engineering degree from NC state. Able to understand and interpret technical data,
chemical impact, etc.
Reasons for wanting to serve on this board:
To serve the community and donate my time.
Conflict of Interest:
Contribution to the diversity of viewpoints on this board:
Same as above
Orange County Parks and Recreation Council
Background, education and experience relevant to this board:
44
Reasons for wanting to serve on this board:
I live in orange county and use the parks and rec facilities and amenities. I also have a child
who will be using them when she is older.
Conflict of Interest:
Same as above.
Contribution to the diversity of viewpoints on this board:
To serve the community and donate my time.
8
Submit Date: Aug 21, 2021
First Name Middle Initial Last Name
Email Address
Home Address Suite or Apt
City State Postal Code
Primary Phone
Orange County, NC Boards & Commissions
Application Form
Profile
What Township do you live in?
Little River
Property Zone
County-Agricultural Residential
Community Involvement
Relatively new to Orange County but served previously on the Durham City/County Environmental Affairs
Board as a County At-Large Appointee.
Which Boards would you like to apply for?
Commission for the Environment: Submitted
Orange County Climate Council: Submitted
Orange County Parks and Recreation Council: Submitted
Interests & Experiences
Jessie L Birckhead
jessieleebirckhead@gmail.com
6005 Kims Drive
Hurdle Mills NC 27541
Home: (919) 274-7207
Jessie L Birckhead
9
Relevant Experience Board #1
I am a Certified Wildlife Biologist with a B.S and M.S. in Wildlife Management/Science. I spent 4 years
working with The Nature Conservancy and 5 years with the NC Wildlife Resources Commission before
stepping into my current work in leadership development at NC State University where I am the Assistant
Director of the Caldwell Fellows. Prior to moving to Orange County I was a County Appointee to the
Durham City County Environmental Affairs Board, a position I hated leaving when we decided to purchase
a home in northern Orange County. I have extensive volunteer experience with groups such as the
Triangle Land Conservancy. I am also a trained meeting facilitator and event planner and I have been
involved personally and professionally in local and state government advocacy and decision making
processes, primarily related to land conservation, ordinance development, and climate policy making. I
have extensive experience with grant writing and grant making in the non profit and government spheres.
While at the NC Wildlife Resources Commission I was the agency's land acquisition manager and have
deep familiarity with local and state land conservation programs and the administration of these programs
for both species management and public recreation. I was a co-chair of the Forestry Committee of the
team that developed North Carolina's Natural and Working Lands Plan for addressing climate change.
Reasons Want to Serve Board #1
I am looking for opportunities to serve my community with my particular expertise in the management of
natural resource and my interest in pursuing conservation through an environmental justice lens.
Diversity of Viewpoints Board #1
I feel that I can bring an unique perspective as a young woman with experience in natural resources work
across the rural/urban divide. My background in state government policy and decision making proved a
real asset in my time on the Durham Environmental Affairs Board.
Conflict of Interest Board #1
I am currently employed by North Carolina State University but not working directly on natural resource
issues so I do not expect many potential conflicts of interest.
Relevant Experience Board #2
I am a Certified Wildlife Biologist with a B.S and M.S. in Wildlife Management/Science. I spent 4 years
working with The Nature Conservancy and 5 years with the NC Wildlife Resources Commission before
stepping into my current work in leadership development at NC State University where I am the Assistant
Director of the Caldwell Fellows. Prior to moving to Orange County I was a County Appointee to the
Durham City County Environmental Affairs Board, a position I hated leaving when we decided to purchase
a home in northern Orange County. I have extensive volunteer experience with groups such as the
Triangle Land Conservancy. I am also a trained meeting facilitator and event planner and I have been
involved personally and professionally in local and state government advocacy and decision making
processes, primarily related to land conservation, ordinance development, and climate policy making. I
have extensive experience with grant writing and grant making in the non profit and government spheres.
While at the NC Wildlife Resources Commission I was the agency's land acquisition manager and have
deep familiarity with local and state land conservation programs and the administration of these programs
for both species management and public recreation. I was a co-chair of the Forestry Committee of the
team that developed North Carolina's Natural and Working Lands Plan for addressing climate change.
Reasons Want to Serve Board #2
I am looking for opportunities to serve my community with my particular expertise in the management of
natural resource and my interest in pursuing conservation through an environmental justice lens.
Jessie L Birckhead
10
Diversity of Viewpoints Board #2
I feel that I can bring an unique perspective as a young woman with experience in natural resources work
across the rural/urban divide. My background in state government policy and decision making proved a
real asset in my time on the Durham Environmental Affairs Board.
Conflict of Interest Board #2
I am currently employed by North Carolina State University but not working directly on natural resource
issues so I do not expect many potential conflicts of interest.
Reasons Want to Serve Board #3
I am looking for opportunities to serve my community with my particular expertise in the management of
natural resource and my interest in pursuing conservation through an environmental justice lens.
Relevant Experience Board #3
I am a Certified Wildlife Biologist with a B.S and M.S. in Wildlife Management/Science. I spent 4 years
working with The Nature Conservancy and 5 years with the NC Wildlife Resources Commission before
stepping into my current work in leadership development at NC State University where I am the Assistant
Director of the Caldwell Fellows. Prior to moving to Orange County I was a County Appointee to the
Durham City County Environmental Affairs Board, a position I hated leaving when we decided to purchase
a home in northern Orange County. I have extensive volunteer experience with groups such as the
Triangle Land Conservancy. I am also a trained meeting facilitator and event planner and I have been
involved personally and professionally in local and state government advocacy and decision making
processes, primarily related to land conservation, ordinance development, and climate policy making. I
have extensive experience with grant writing and grant making in the non profit and government spheres.
While at the NC Wildlife Resources Commission I was the agency's land acquisition manager and have
deep familiarity with local and state land conservation programs and the administration of these programs
for both species management and public recreation. I was a co-chair of the Forestry Committee of the
team that developed North Carolina's Natural and Working Lands Plan for addressing climate change.
Diversity of Viewpoints Board #3
I feel that I can bring an unique perspective as a young woman with experience in natural resources work
across the rural/urban divide. My background in state government policy and decision making proved a
real asset in my time on the Durham Environmental Affairs Board.
Conflict of Interest Board #3
I am currently employed by North Carolina State University but not working directly on natural resource
issues so I do not expect many potential conflicts of interest.
Past Service
I served on the Durham City County Environmental Affairs Board for one term, departing because my
family moved from Durham to Orange Counties in late 2020.
Demographics
We ask your help in assuring diversity of membership by answering the following questions:
Jessie L Birckhead
11
Age Range *
18-34
OC Ethnicity
White
OC Gender Identity
Female
Ethics Guidelines
Ethics Guidelines for Orange County Advisory Boards and Commissions *
I agree by my signature below that, if appointed, I pledge to comply with the following ethics
guidelines for advisory boards and commissions as adopted by the Orange County Board of
Commissioners.
Conflict of Interest
1. During advisory board meetings, a member shall immediately disclose any potential
conflict of interest and request to be excused from voting when he or she has a conflict of
interest.
2. During appeal proceedings, the applicant has the right to question the interest of any
voting member. The advisory board chair should consult with the County Attorney or
staff attorney on any potential conflict of interest in appeal matters.
3. In determining from existing facts and circumstances whether a conflict of interest exists
the determining party shall consider the facts and circumstances as would an ordinary
and reasonable person exercising prudence, discretion, intelligence, and due care.
Gifts
1. An advisory board member shall not directly or indirectly ask, accept, demand, exact,
solicit, seek, assign, receive, or agree to receive any gift or honorarium for the advisory
board member, or for another person, in return for being influenced in the discharge of
the advisory board member’s official responsibilities.
2. This section shall not apply to gifts or awards authorized by Orange County Policies,
Resolutions, or Ordinances.
Code of Ethics
1. Advisory board members should act with integrity and with independence from improper
influence as they exercise the functions of their offices. Characteristics and behaviors
that are consistent with this standard are:
1. Adhering firmly to a code of sound values.
2. Behaving consistently and with respect towards everyone with whom they interact.
3. Exhibiting trustworthiness.
4. Living as if they are on duty as appointed officials regardless of where they are or
what they are doing.
5. Using their best independent judgment to pursue the common good as they see it,
presenting their opinions to all in a reasonable, forthright, consistent manner.
6. Remaining incorruptible, self-governing, and not subject to improper influence, while
at the same time being able to consider the opinions and ideas of others.
7. Disclosing contacts and information about issues that they receive outside of public
meetings, and refraining from seeking or receiving information about quasi-judicial
Jessie L Birckhead
12
matters outside of the quasi-judicial proceedings themselves.
8. Treating other advisory boards and advisory board members and the public with
respect, and honoring the opinions of others even when they disagree.
9. Being careful not to reach conclusions on issues until all sides have been heard.
10. Showing respect for their appointed office and not behaving in ways that reflect
badly on the office, the advisory board, Orange County, or the Orange County
Board of Commissioners.
11. Recognizing that they are part of a larger group and acting accordingly.
12. Recognizing that individual board members are not generally allowed to act on
behalf of the board, but may only do so if the board specifically so authorizes, and
that the board must take official action as a body.
13. Being faithful in the performance of the duties of their offices.
14. Acting as especially responsible residents whom others can trust and respect.
15. Faithfully attending and preparing for meetings.
16. Carefully analyzing all credible information that is properly submitted to them, and
when applicable, being mindful of the need not to engage in communications
outside the meeting in quasi-judicial matters.
17. Being willing to bear their fair share of the board’s workload.
18. To the extent appropriate, they should be willing to put the board’s interests ahead
of their own and shall avoid the appearance of a conflict of interest and shall, under
no circumstances, use their position on any board for personal gain or profit.
2. Members of the Planning Board, Board of Adjustment, Economic Development
Commission, and Board of Equalization and Review shall upon initial appointment, and
prior to December 31 annually thereafter, disclose:
1. Any interest he or she or his or her spouse or domestic partner has in real property
situated in whole or in part in Orange County and the general description of that
property.
2. Any legal, equitable, beneficial or contractual interest he or she or his or her spouse
or domestic partner has in any business, firm or corporation, which is currently
doing business with Orange County pursuant to contracts awarded by Orange
County, or which is attempting, or has attempted in the past calendar year, to
secure the award of a bid from Orange County or the approval of any Board or
Agency of Orange County.
3. Failure to file a disclosure statement setting out the above required information shall
result in immediate removal of the member from the applicable board.
I agree with the Above Statement
By checking this box I certify that this serves as an electronic version of my signature, for
the sole purposes of this form.
I Agree
Jessie L Birckhead
13
Volunteer Application
Orange County Advisory Boards and Commissions
Martin DeWitt Page 1 of 2
Home Address:418 W King St
Township of Residence: Hillsborough
Zone of Residence:Hillsborough Town Limits
Ethnic Background:white
Gender Identity:Male
Phone:9192599283
Email:martin.dewitt21@gmail.com
Name: Martin DeWitt
Boards/Commissions applied for:
Hillsborough NC 27278
Other Comments:
Name Called:
Year of OC Residence:2012
Community Activities/Organizational Memberships:
Part time graduate studies student at UNC-Chapel Hill
Past Service on Orange County Advisory Boards:
N/A
Boards/Commissions appointments:
Age Range:18-34
Orange County Parks and Recreation Council
Background, education and experience relevant to this board:
My experience as a market research manager at medium and enterprise sized technology firms
equipped me for evaluating and interpreting data including financial data to contribute to
considering funding requests from outside agencies. I also bring strengths in survey and in-
depth interview research which may contribute by bringing the voice of county residents to the
board to assist with items like the soccer.com center expansion.
Reasons for wanting to serve on this board:
I d like to help optimize recreation programming for, expand recreation opportunities for, and
increase usage of recreation facilities among Orange County residents.
Conflict of Interest:
Contribution to the diversity of viewpoints on this board:
My participation on this board would contribute to the diversity of viewpoints because my points
of view are built with a balance of wisdom gained through lived experience and data from many
sources like newspapers, talking to other people, and researchers. My points of view are also
informed by my values of conservation, preservation, and inclusivity; and my strengths in
listening and data synthesis.
14
Page 2 of 2 Martin DeWitt
This application was current on:1/6/2020 Date Printed:1/6/2020
15
Volunteer Application
Orange County Advisory Boards and Commissions
Jaya Nair Page 1 of 2
Home Address:1512 Providence Glen Dr
Township of Residence: Chapel Hill
Zone of Residence:C.H. City Limits
Ethnic Background:Asian American
Gender Identity:Female
Phone:9082091161
Email:snair.jaya@gmail.com
Name:Ms Jaya Nair
Boards/Commissions applied for:
Chapel Hill NC 27514
Name Called:
Year of OC Residence:2017
Community Activities/Organizational Memberships:
I volunteered with the library for their annual book sale. Looking for more opportunities in
OC.
I volunteered for 4 years in the Adult Advisory Board for Youth Council in East Brunswick,
NJ. There major duties were to help Youth Council members with suggestions for new
ideas, activities such as fundraising and interviewing for positions for Youth Council Board
members.
Past Service on Orange County Advisory Boards:
NA
Age Range:35-59
Chapel Hill Library Advisory Board
Background, education and experience relevant to this board:
I hold a masters degree in Chemistry from India. I am a frequent visitor to the library and
volunteered with the Friends of Library group for the annual book sale.
I do not have past experience with volunteering at libraries, but want to explore where I can
contribute.
Reasons for wanting to serve on this board:
I really enjoyed the volunteering with Friends of Library for the annual book sale. I am very
impressed by the dedication and willingness of everyone I met to contribute their time and
energy for the Library s benefit.
I would like to contribute what I can to the library by volunteering for the Board.
Conflict of Interest:
Contribution to the diversity of viewpoints on this board:
Without any prior experience in serving any Library Advisory Boards, I hope I can bring a fresh
set of opinions and ideas.
16
Page 2 of 2 Jaya Nair
Other Comments:
This application was current on:10/27/2021 Date Printed:10/27/2021
Boards/Commissions appointments:
Orange County Parks and Recreation Council
Background, education and experience relevant to this board:
44
Reasons for wanting to serve on this board:
I hold a masters degree in Chemistry from India. I had indirect interaction with Parks and
Recreation department in East Brunswick township in New Jersey when I volunteered for the
Youth Council there. Other than that I do not have any former experience with the Parks and
Recreation Council.
Conflict of Interest:
With no prior experience, I still hope I can bring new ideas and view points to the Council.
Contribution to the diversity of viewpoints on this board:
I understand the importance of having the Parks and Recreation Council to the people and
would like to contribute my time to serve the Council.
Commission for the Environment
Background, education and experience relevant to this board:
I hold a masters degree in Chemistry from India. I did research with National Institute of
Oceanography in India regarding the pollution of the estuaries and rivers in my state. I would
like to contribute what I with my background for the Commission for
Reasons for wanting to serve on this board:
I would like to give back to the society and I believe volunteering is the best way. If I can relate
the topics to what I learned in the past that will be an additional interest for me.
Conflict of Interest:
Application Date:12/21/2019
17
Submit Date: Sep 22, 2021
First Name Middle Initial Last Name
Email Address
Home Address Suite or Apt
City State Postal Code
Primary Phone
Orange County, NC Boards & Commissions
Application Form
Profile
What Township do you live in?
Hillsborough
Property Zone
Hillsborough Town Limits
Community Involvement
-Currently on Hillsborough Historic District Commission -Volunteered previously with Hillsborough and
Asheville tree boards doing i-tree surveys and urban heat mapping for town canopy projects -Work for the
Nature Conservancy on NC freshwater related conservation and restoration of riverine environments -18
year US Coast Guard member (reservists now) working on emergency preparedness and disaster
response
Which Boards would you like to apply for?
Orange County Parks and Recreation Council: Submitted
Interests & Experiences
Relevant Experience Board #1
-Work for the Nature Conservancy on NC freshwater related conservation and restoration of riverine
environments to create state parks and green/blue ways -Extensive federal grant and contracts
experience having worked at environmental NGO, Federal grant administering agency, military and NC
State parks -Currently serving on NC town commission and have volunteered previously on tree boards in
NC towns -Volunteered as Crescent City Kickers (soccer booster club) liaison to New Orleans City parks
to coordinate outreach events to youth members -Volunteered as promoter/organizer/participant for
Kingman Island Bluegrass festival in DC
Will D Spoon
willspoonbiz@gmail.com
310 W Queen Street
Hillsborough NC 27278
Home: (410) 215-8593
Will D Spoon
18
Reasons Want to Serve Board #1
-Passion for the outdoors and the well documented public health benefits they can bring to communities -
Strong advocate for smart growth and integrating outdoor public spaces into any new development -Want
to give back to my home state by volunteering my time while also helping to make it a better place for my
children
Diversity of Viewpoints Board #1
-NC native, born and raised in the area, who has also lived in larger US cities and enjoyed involvement
with larger parks and recreation programs. -Military/veteran
Conflict of Interest Board #1
None/NA
Relevant Experience Board #2
Reasons Want to Serve Board #2
Diversity of Viewpoints Board #2
Conflict of Interest Board #2
Reasons Want to Serve Board #3
Relevant Experience Board #3
Diversity of Viewpoints Board #3
Conflict of Interest Board #3
Past Service
No Orange County past service
Demographics
Will D Spoon
19
We ask your help in assuring diversity of membership by answering the following questions:
Age Range *
35-59
OC Ethnicity
Other
OC Gender Identity
Male
Ethics Guidelines
Ethics Guidelines for Orange County Advisory Boards and Commissions *
I agree by my signature below that, if appointed, I pledge to comply with the following ethics
guidelines for advisory boards and commissions as adopted by the Orange County Board of
Commissioners.
Conflict of Interest
1. During advisory board meetings, a member shall immediately disclose any potential
conflict of interest and request to be excused from voting when he or she has a conflict of
interest.
2. During appeal proceedings, the applicant has the right to question the interest of any
voting member. The advisory board chair should consult with the County Attorney or
staff attorney on any potential conflict of interest in appeal matters.
3. In determining from existing facts and circumstances whether a conflict of interest exists
the determining party shall consider the facts and circumstances as would an ordinary
and reasonable person exercising prudence, discretion, intelligence, and due care.
Gifts
1. An advisory board member shall not directly or indirectly ask, accept, demand, exact,
solicit, seek, assign, receive, or agree to receive any gift or honorarium for the advisory
board member, or for another person, in return for being influenced in the discharge of
the advisory board member’s official responsibilities.
2. This section shall not apply to gifts or awards authorized by Orange County Policies,
Resolutions, or Ordinances.
Code of Ethics
1. Advisory board members should act with integrity and with independence from improper
influence as they exercise the functions of their offices. Characteristics and behaviors
that are consistent with this standard are:
1. Adhering firmly to a code of sound values.
2. Behaving consistently and with respect towards everyone with whom they interact.
3. Exhibiting trustworthiness.
4. Living as if they are on duty as appointed officials regardless of where they are or
what they are doing.
5. Using their best independent judgment to pursue the common good as they see it,
presenting their opinions to all in a reasonable, forthright, consistent manner.
6. Remaining incorruptible, self-governing, and not subject to improper influence, while
at the same time being able to consider the opinions and ideas of others.
Will D Spoon
20
7. Disclosing contacts and information about issues that they receive outside of public
meetings, and refraining from seeking or receiving information about quasi-judicial
matters outside of the quasi-judicial proceedings themselves.
8. Treating other advisory boards and advisory board members and the public with
respect, and honoring the opinions of others even when they disagree.
9. Being careful not to reach conclusions on issues until all sides have been heard.
10. Showing respect for their appointed office and not behaving in ways that reflect
badly on the office, the advisory board, Orange County, or the Orange County
Board of Commissioners.
11. Recognizing that they are part of a larger group and acting accordingly.
12. Recognizing that individual board members are not generally allowed to act on
behalf of the board, but may only do so if the board specifically so authorizes, and
that the board must take official action as a body.
13. Being faithful in the performance of the duties of their offices.
14. Acting as especially responsible residents whom others can trust and respect.
15. Faithfully attending and preparing for meetings.
16. Carefully analyzing all credible information that is properly submitted to them, and
when applicable, being mindful of the need not to engage in communications
outside the meeting in quasi-judicial matters.
17. Being willing to bear their fair share of the board’s workload.
18. To the extent appropriate, they should be willing to put the board’s interests ahead
of their own and shall avoid the appearance of a conflict of interest and shall, under
no circumstances, use their position on any board for personal gain or profit.
2. Members of the Planning Board, Board of Adjustment, Economic Development
Commission, and Board of Equalization and Review shall upon initial appointment, and
prior to December 31 annually thereafter, disclose:
1. Any interest he or she or his or her spouse or domestic partner has in real property
situated in whole or in part in Orange County and the general description of that
property.
2. Any legal, equitable, beneficial or contractual interest he or she or his or her spouse
or domestic partner has in any business, firm or corporation, which is currently
doing business with Orange County pursuant to contracts awarded by Orange
County, or which is attempting, or has attempted in the past calendar year, to
secure the award of a bid from Orange County or the approval of any Board or
Agency of Orange County.
3. Failure to file a disclosure statement setting out the above required information shall
result in immediate removal of the member from the applicable board.
I agree with the Above Statement
By checking this box I certify that this serves as an electronic version of my signature, for
the sole purposes of this form.
I Agree
Will D Spoon
21
Submit Date: Oct 03, 2021
First Name Middle Initial Last Name
Email Address
Home Address Suite or Apt
City State Postal Code
Primary Phone
Orange County, NC Boards & Commissions
Application Form
Profile
What Township do you live in?
Hillsborough
Property Zone
Hillsborough Town Limits
Community Involvement
Which Boards would you like to apply for?
Orange County Parks and Recreation Council: Submitted
Interests & Experiences
Relevant Experience Board #1
I have a Master of Public Administration from UNC-Chapel Hill specializing in local government. I was
selected as an International City/County Management Fellow for 2018-2019 with a placement in Sarasota
County, FL. I worked closely with the parks department throughout my time with Sarasota County and
assisted with various community events (weekly fun runs, rowing championships, etc.). I worked as a
Budget & Management Analyst for Catawba County, NC from 2019-2021. My portfolio of departments
included the Planning & Parks department. I assisted in planning for the transition from 6-day to 7-day
park operations and the opening of a 600+ acre park. In my free time, I am passionate about parks and
have already visited multiple Town of Hillsborough parks since moving here in September.
Rebecca Truluck
beccatruluck1993@gmail.com
434 Waterstone Park Circle
Hillsborough NC 27278
Mobile: (941) 266-5539
Rebecca Truluck
22
Reasons Want to Serve Board #1
I am extremely passionate about parks and recreation. I believe parks are critical for the well-being of
residents and should be accessible for all. Parks are one of the few places where people can spend time
without the expectation of spending money. They provide public spaces to get to know others in the
community and feel more connected with your neighbors. Great park systems improve the quality of life
and make communities enjoyable and beautiful places to live. I believe my background of working with
county parks departments, local government budget experience, and passion for parks would make me a
valuable member.
Diversity of Viewpoints Board #1
I have a background in working with county parks departments through the lens of county
management/budget. I have also shadowed/worked alongside staff within a parks department to assist
with special events and other programming. I have lived in apartments for the last 6+ years and must use
parks to spend time outside.
Conflict of Interest Board #1
I have no conflict of interest that I am aware of.
Relevant Experience Board #2
Reasons Want to Serve Board #2
Diversity of Viewpoints Board #2
Conflict of Interest Board #2
Reasons Want to Serve Board #3
Relevant Experience Board #3
Diversity of Viewpoints Board #3
Conflict of Interest Board #3
Rebecca Truluck
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Past Service
Demographics
We ask your help in assuring diversity of membership by answering the following questions:
Age Range *
18-34
OC Ethnicity
White
OC Gender Identity
Female
Ethics Guidelines
Ethics Guidelines for Orange County Advisory Boards and Commissions *
I agree by my signature below that, if appointed, I pledge to comply with the following ethics
guidelines for advisory boards and commissions as adopted by the Orange County Board of
Commissioners.
Conflict of Interest
1. During advisory board meetings, a member shall immediately disclose any potential
conflict of interest and request to be excused from voting when he or she has a conflict of
interest.
2. During appeal proceedings, the applicant has the right to question the interest of any
voting member. The advisory board chair should consult with the County Attorney or
staff attorney on any potential conflict of interest in appeal matters.
3. In determining from existing facts and circumstances whether a conflict of interest exists
the determining party shall consider the facts and circumstances as would an ordinary
and reasonable person exercising prudence, discretion, intelligence, and due care.
Gifts
1. An advisory board member shall not directly or indirectly ask, accept, demand, exact,
solicit, seek, assign, receive, or agree to receive any gift or honorarium for the advisory
board member, or for another person, in return for being influenced in the discharge of
the advisory board member’s official responsibilities.
2. This section shall not apply to gifts or awards authorized by Orange County Policies,
Resolutions, or Ordinances.
Code of Ethics
1. Advisory board members should act with integrity and with independence from improper
influence as they exercise the functions of their offices. Characteristics and behaviors
that are consistent with this standard are:
1. Adhering firmly to a code of sound values.
2. Behaving consistently and with respect towards everyone with whom they interact.
Rebecca Truluck
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3. Exhibiting trustworthiness.
4. Living as if they are on duty as appointed officials regardless of where they are or
what they are doing.
5. Using their best independent judgment to pursue the common good as they see it,
presenting their opinions to all in a reasonable, forthright, consistent manner.
6. Remaining incorruptible, self-governing, and not subject to improper influence, while
at the same time being able to consider the opinions and ideas of others.
7. Disclosing contacts and information about issues that they receive outside of public
meetings, and refraining from seeking or receiving information about quasi-judicial
matters outside of the quasi-judicial proceedings themselves.
8. Treating other advisory boards and advisory board members and the public with
respect, and honoring the opinions of others even when they disagree.
9. Being careful not to reach conclusions on issues until all sides have been heard.
10. Showing respect for their appointed office and not behaving in ways that reflect
badly on the office, the advisory board, Orange County, or the Orange County
Board of Commissioners.
11. Recognizing that they are part of a larger group and acting accordingly.
12. Recognizing that individual board members are not generally allowed to act on
behalf of the board, but may only do so if the board specifically so authorizes, and
that the board must take official action as a body.
13. Being faithful in the performance of the duties of their offices.
14. Acting as especially responsible residents whom others can trust and respect.
15. Faithfully attending and preparing for meetings.
16. Carefully analyzing all credible information that is properly submitted to them, and
when applicable, being mindful of the need not to engage in communications
outside the meeting in quasi-judicial matters.
17. Being willing to bear their fair share of the board’s workload.
18. To the extent appropriate, they should be willing to put the board’s interests ahead
of their own and shall avoid the appearance of a conflict of interest and shall, under
no circumstances, use their position on any board for personal gain or profit.
2. Members of the Planning Board, Board of Adjustment, Economic Development
Commission, and Board of Equalization and Review shall upon initial appointment, and
prior to December 31 annually thereafter, disclose:
1. Any interest he or she or his or her spouse or domestic partner has in real property
situated in whole or in part in Orange County and the general description of that
property.
2. Any legal, equitable, beneficial or contractual interest he or she or his or her spouse
or domestic partner has in any business, firm or corporation, which is currently
doing business with Orange County pursuant to contracts awarded by Orange
County, or which is attempting, or has attempted in the past calendar year, to
secure the award of a bid from Orange County or the approval of any Board or
Agency of Orange County.
3. Failure to file a disclosure statement setting out the above required information shall
result in immediate removal of the member from the applicable board.
I agree with the Above Statement
By checking this box I certify that this serves as an electronic version of my signature, for
the sole purposes of this form.
I Agree
Rebecca Truluck
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Board and Commission Members
And Vacant Positions
Orange County Parks and Recreation Council
Contact Person:David Stancil
Contact Phone:919-245-2522
Meeting Times:6:30 pm first Wednesday of each month
Positions:12 Terms:2
Meeting Place:Chapel Hill / Hillsborough Alternating
Length:3 years
Description:Each member of the Council shall be a County resident appointed by the Orange County Board of Commissioners. The
Council includes representatives from each of the county’s townships plus its municipalities. This council consults with and
advises the Department of Environment, Agriculture, Parks and Recreation, and the Board of County Commissioners on
matters affecting parks planning, development and operation; recreation facilities, policies and programs; and public trails and
open space.
Ethnic Background:White
Christopher Colvin
Gender Identity:Male Township:Chapel Hill
Resid/Spec Req:Carrboro City Limits
Current Appointment:05/04/2021
Expiration:03/31/2024
Number of Terms:1
1 First Appointed:05/04/2021
Special Repr:Age Range:35-59
Ethnic Background:White
John Greeson
Gender Identity:Male Township:Hillsborough
Resid/Spec Req:Hillsborough Twnshp
Current Appointment:04/16/2019
Expiration:03/31/2022
Number of Terms:2
2 First Appointed:04/21/2015
Special Repr:Hillsborough Township
Vice-Chair
Age Range:
Ethnic Background:White
Natalie C. Ziemba
Gender Identity:Female Township:Hillsborough
Resid/Spec Req:Cedar Grove Twnsp
Current Appointment:10/05/2021
Expiration:03/31/2024
Number of Terms:1
3 First Appointed:10/05/2021
Special Repr:At-Large (formerly Cedar Grove TownshiAge Range:18-34
Ethnic Background:Asian American
Dr. Xilong Zhao
Gender Identity:Male Township:Chapel Hill
Resid/Spec Req:C.Hill City Limits
Current Appointment:05/14/2020
Expiration:03/31/2023
Number of Terms:1
4 First Appointed:05/14/2020
Special Repr:Age Range:35-59
Ethnic Background:White
Greg Hughes
Gender Identity:Male Township:Hillsborough
Resid/Spec Req:At-Large
Current Appointment:06/15/2021
Expiration:03/31/2022
Number of Terms:
5 First Appointed:06/15/2021
Special Repr:At-LargeAge Range:
Ethnic Background:White
Mikki Fleming
Gender Identity:Female Township:Cheeks
Resid/Spec Req:Cheeks Township
Current Appointment:02/16/2021
Expiration:03/31/2024
Number of Terms:1
6 First Appointed:05/14/202
Special Repr:Cheeks TownshipAge Range:60+
Tuesday, November 2, 2021 Page 1
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Board and Commission Members
And Vacant Positions
Orange County Parks and Recreation Council
Contact Person:David Stancil
Contact Phone:919-245-2522
Meeting Times:6:30 pm first Wednesday of each month
Positions:12 Terms:2
Meeting Place:Chapel Hill / Hillsborough Alternating
Length:3 years
Ethnic Background:White
Ms Cecily Kritz
Gender Identity:Female Township:Chapel Hill
Resid/Spec Req:Chapel Hill Twnshp
Current Appointment:05/14/2020
Expiration:03/31/2023
Number of Terms:1
7 First Appointed:09/17/2019
Special Repr:Chapel Hil TownshipAge Range:
Ethnic Background:White
Robert Smith
Gender Identity:Male Township:Little River
Resid/Spec Req:Little River Township
Current Appointment:05/04/2021
Expiration:03/31/2023
Number of Terms:2
8 First Appointed:05/17/2016
Special Repr:Little River TownshipAge Range:
Ethnic Background:White
Tim Tippin
Gender Identity:Male Township:Bingham
Resid/Spec Req:Bingham Township
Current Appointment:05/14/2020
Expiration:03/31/2023
Number of Terms:2
9 First Appointed:11/02/2017
Special Repr:Bingham TownshipAge Range:
Ethnic Background:Other
Dr Andrew Landstrom
Gender Identity:Male Township:Hillsborough
Resid/Spec Req:Hillsborough Town Limits
Current Appointment:05/14/2020
Expiration:09/30/2022
Number of Terms:1
10 First Appointed:05/14/2020
Special Repr:Age Range:35-59
Ethnic Background:White
Ms. Gina Reyman
Gender Identity:Female Township:Eno
Resid/Spec Req:Eno Township
Current Appointment:01/22/2019
Expiration:12/31/2021
Number of Terms:1
11 First Appointed:06/06/2017
Special Repr:Eno TownshipAge Range:
Ethnic Background:White
Dr. Haywood Rhodes
Gender Identity:Male Township:Hillsborough
Resid/Spec Req:At-Large
Current Appointment:04/16/2019
Expiration:03/31/2022
Number of Terms:2
12 First Appointed:04/21/2015
Special Repr:At-Large
Chair
Age Range:
Tuesday, November 2, 2021 Page 2
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Applicant Interest Listing by Board Name and by Applicant Name
Orange County Parks and Recreation Council Contact Person:David Stancil
Contact Phone:919-245-2522
Ethnic Background:White
Christopher Austin
Gender Identity:Male
Township:Hillsborough
Date Applied:11/03/2020
Res. Eligibility:Hillsborough Town LimitsAge Range:18-34
Also Serves On:
Ethnic Background:White
Jessie L. Birckhead
Gender Identity:Female
Township:Little River
Date Applied:08/21/2021
Res. Eligibility:CountyAge Range:18-34
Also Serves On:
Ethnic Background:White
Martin DeWitt
Gender Identity:Male
Township:Hillsborough
Date Applied:01/06/2020
Res. Eligibility:Hillsborough Town LimitsAge Range:18-34
Also Serves On:
Ethnic Background:Asian American
Jaya Nair
Gender Identity:Female
Township:Chapel Hill
Date Applied:10/27/2021
Ms
Res. Eligibility:C.H. City LimitsAge Range:35-59
Also Serves On:Commission for the Environment
Ethnic Background:Other
Will D. Spoon
Gender Identity:Male
Township:Hillsborough
Date Applied:09/22/2021
Res. Eligibility:Hillsborough Town LimitsAge Range:35-59
Also Serves On:
Ethnic Background:White
Rebecca Truluck
Gender Identity:Female
Township:Hillsborough
Date Applied:10/03/2021
Res. Eligibility:Hillsborough Town LimitsAge Range:18-34
Also Serves On:
Tuesday, November 2, 2021 Page 1 of 1
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