HomeMy WebLinkAboutAgenda 02-08-22; 8 - Orange County Parks and Recreation Council – Appointment Discussion 1
ORANGE COUNTY
BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
ACTION AGENDA ITEM ABSTRACT
Meeting Date: February 8, 2022
Action Agenda
Item No. 8
SUBJECT: Orange County Parks and Recreation Council — Appointment Discussion
DEPARTMENT: Board of Commissioners
ATTACHMENT(S): INFORMATION CONTACT:
Recommendation Clerk's Office, 919-245-2125
Member and Applicant Summary Sheet
Application for Person Recommended
Applications of Other Applicants
Membership Roster
Applicant Interest List
PURPOSE: To consider appointments 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 twelve (12) members, with representatives from
each of the county's townships and municipalities.
The following applicant is recommended for Board consideration:
NAME POSITION TYPE OF EXPIRATION
DESCRIPTION APPOINTMENT DATE
TERM
Jessie L. Chapel Hill Partial Term 03/31/2023
Birckhead Township
If the individual listed above is appointed, no vacancies remains.
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.
2
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT: There is no Orange County Environmental Responsibility Goal
impact associated with this item.
RECOMMENDATION(S): The Manager recommends that the Board discuss appointments to
the Orange County Parks and Recreation Council.
3
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PO Box 8181, 1020 US HWY 70 W, Hillsborough, NC (919) 245-2510
December 6, 2021
Renee Price, Chair
Board of County Commissioners
PO Box 8181
Hillsborough, NC 27278
Re: Recommended Appointments
Dear Chair Price:
The Orange County Parks and Recreation Council (PRC) has discussed its current vacancy and
recommends that the following applicant be appointed to the Council:
• Jessie Birckhead,to the Chapel Hill Township position (position#7)
Thank you for your consideration of this appointment.
Sincerely,
John Greeson, Chair
Chair, Parks and Recreation Council
Copies: Xilong Zhao, Vice-Chair
Parks and Recreation Council
David Stancil, DEAPR Director
4
Orange County Parks and Recration Council Members and Applicants
Name Member or Applicant? Gender Identity Race/Ethnic Background Age Range Township Also Serves on
Andrew Landstrom Member Male Other 35-59 Hillsborough
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
VACANT Member N/A N/A N/A N/A
Christopher Austin Applicant Male White 18-34 Hillsborough
Jessie L.Birckhead Applicant Female White 18-34 Little River Commission for the Environment
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 jApplicant IFemale lWhite 18-34 Hillsborough
5
Orange County, NC Boards & Commissions Submit Date: Aug 21, 2021
Application Form
Profile
Jessie L Birckhead
First Name Middle Initial Last Name
jessieleebirckhead@gmail.com
Email Address
6005 Kims Drive
Home Address Suite or Apt
Hurdle Mills NC 27541
City State Postal Code
Home: (919) 274-7207
Primary Phone
What Township do you live in?
V 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
6
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
1 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
1 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
7
Diversity of Viewpoints Board #2
1 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
1 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
1 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
1 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
1 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
1 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
8
Age Range
rJ 18-34
OC Ethnicity
V White
OC Gender Identity
P 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
9
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.
P I Agree
Jessie L Birckhead
10
Page 1 of 2 Christopher Austin
Volunteer Application
Orange County Advisory Boards and Commissions
Name: Christopher Austin
Name Called:
Home Address: 2212 Woodbury Dr.
Hillsborough NC 27278
Phone: 9196248763
Email: c.austin0310@gmail.com
Year of OC Residence: 2015
Township of Residence: Hillsborough
Zone of Residence: Hillsborough Town Limits
Gender Identity: Male
Ethnic Background: White
Age Range: 18-34
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
Boards/Commissions applied for:
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.
Contribution to the diversity of viewpoints on this board:
Every individual provides an independent perspective
Conflict of Interest:
11
Page 2 of 2 Christopher Austin
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.
Contribution to the diversity of viewpoints on this board:
Same as above
Conflict of Interest:
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.
Contribution to the diversity of viewpoints on this board:
To serve the community and donate my time.
Conflict of Interest:
Same as above.
Boards/Commissions appointments:
Other Comments:
This application was current on: 11/3/2020 9:22:28 AM Date Printed: 2/24/2021
12
Page 1 of 2 Martin DeWitt
Volunteer Application
Orange County Advisory Boards and Commissions
Name: Martin DeWitt
Name Called:
Home Address: 418 W King St
Hillsborough NC 27278
Phone: 9192599283
Email: martin.dewitt2l@gmail.com
Year of OC Residence: 2012
Township of Residence: Hillsborough
Zone of Residence: Hillsborough Town Limits
Gender Identity: Male
Ethnic Background: white
Age Range: 18-34
Community Activities/Organizational Memberships:
Part time graduate studies student at UNC-Chapel Hill
Past Service on Orange County Advisory Boards:
N/A
Boards/Commissions applied for:
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.
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.
Conflict of Interest:
Boards/Commissions appointments:
Other Comments:
13
Page 2 of 2 Martin DeWitt
This application was current on: 1/6/2020 Date Printed: 1/6/2020
14
Page 1 of 2 Jaya Nair
Volunteer Application
Orange County Advisory Boards and Commissions
Name: Ms Jaya Nair
Name Called:
Home Address: 1512 Providence Glen Dr
Chapel Hill NC 27514
Phone: 9082091161
Email: snair.jaya@gmail.com
Year of OC Residence: 2017
Township of Residence: Chapel Hill
Zone of Residence: C.H. City Limits
Gender Identity: Female
Ethnic Background: Asian American
Age Range: 35-59
Community Activities/Organizational Memberships:
I volunteered with the library for their annual book sale. Looking for more opportunities in
OC.
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
Boards/Commissions applied for:
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.
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.
Conflict of Interest:
15
Page 2 of 2 Jaya Nair
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.
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.
Conflict of Interest:
With no prior experience, I still hope I can bring new ideas and view points to the Council.
Boards/Commissions appointments:
Commission for the Environment
Application Date: 12/21/2019
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:
Other Comments:
This application was current on: 10/27/2021 Date Printed: 10/27/2021
16
Orange County, NC Boards & Commissions Submit Date: Sep 22, 2021
Application Form
Profile
Will D Spoon
First Name Middle Initial Last Name
willspoonbiz@gmail.com
Email Address
310 W Queen Street
Home Address Suite or Apt
Hillsborough NC 27278
City State Postal Code
Home: (410) 215-8593
Primary Phone
What Township do you live in?
P 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
17
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
18
We ask your help in assuring diversity of membership by answering the following questions:
Age Range
FJ 35-59
OC Ethnicity
r'J Other
OC Gender Identity
fJ 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
19
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.
rJ I Agree
Will D Spoon
20
Orange County, NC Boards & Commissions Submit Date: Oct 03, 2021
Application Form
Profile
Rebecca Truluck
First Name Middle Initial Last Name
beccatruluck1993@gmail.com
Email Address
434 Waterstone Park Circle
Home Address Suite or Apt
Hillsborough NC 27278
City State Postal Code
Mobile: (941) 266-5539
Primary Phone
What Township do you live in?
W 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
21
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
22
Past Service
Demographics
We ask your help in assuring diversity of membership by answering the following questions:
Age Range
PT 18-34
OC Ethnicity
V White
OC Gender Identity
rJ 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
23
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.
W I Agree
Rebecca Truluck
24
Board and Commission Members
And Vacant Positions
Orange County Parks and Recreation Council
Meeting Times: 6:30 pm first Wednesday of each month Contact Person:David Stancil
Meeting Place: Chapel Hill/Hillsborough Alternating Contact Phone: 919-245-2522
Positions: 12 Length:3 years Terms: 2
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.
Christopher Colvin
1 First Appointed: 05/04/2021
Gender Identity: Male Township: Chapel Hill Current Appointment: 05/04/2021
Ethnic Background: White Resid/Spec Req: Carrboro City Limits Expiration: 03/31/2024
Age Range: 35-59 Special Repr: Number of Terms: 1
John Greeson
2 Chair First Appointed: 04/21/2015
Gender Identity: Male Township: Hillsborough Current Appointment: 04/16/2019
Ethnic Background: White Resid/Spec Req: Hillsborough Twnshp Expiration: 03/31/2022
Age Range: Special Repr: Hillsborough Township Number of Terms: 2
Natalie C. Ziemba
3 First Appointed: 10/05/2021
Gender Identity: Female Township: Hillsborough Current Appointment: 10/05/2021
Ethnic Background: White Resid/Spec Req: Cedar Grove Twnsp Expiration: 03/31/2024
Age Range: 18-34 Special Repr: At-Large(formerly Cedar Grove Townshi Number of Terms: 1
Dr. Xilong Zhao
4 Vice-Chair First Appointed: 05/14/2020
Gender Identity: Male Township: Chapel Hill Current Appointment: 05/14/2020
Ethnic Background: Asian American Resid/Spec Req: C.Hill City Limits Expiration: 03/31/2023
Age Range: 35-59 Special Repr: Number of Terms: 1
Greg Hughes
5 First Appointed: 06/15/2021
Gender Identity: Male Township: Hillsborough Current Appointment: 06/15/2021
Ethnic Background: White Resid/Spec Req: At-Large Expiration: 03/31/2022
Age Range: Special Repr: At-Large Number of Terms:
Mikki Fleming
6 First Appointed: 05/14/202
Gender Identity: Female Township: Cheeks Current Appointment: 02/16/2021
Ethnic Background: White Resid/Spec Req: Cheeks Township Expiration: 03/31/2024
Age Range: 60+ Special Repr: Cheeks Township Number of Terms: 1
Tuesday,February 1,2022 Page 1
25
Board and Commission Members
And Vacant Positions
Orange County Parks and Recreation Council
Meeting Times: 6:30 pm first Wednesday of each month Contact Person:David Stancil
Meeting Place: Chapel Hill/Hillsborough Alternating Contact Phone: 919-245-2522
Positions: 12 Length:3 years Terms: 2
VACANT
7 First Appointed:
Gender Identity: Township: Current Appointment:
Ethnic Background: Resid/Spec Req: Chapel Hill Twnshp Expiration: 03/31/2023
Age Range: Special Repr: Chapel Hil Township Number of Terms:
Robert Smith
8 First Appointed: 05/17/2016
Gender Identity: Male Township: Little River Current Appointment: 05/04/2021
Ethnic Background: White Resid/Spec Req: Little River Township Expiration: 03/31/2023
Age Range: Special Repr: Little River Township Number of Terms: 2
Tim Tippin
9 First Appointed: 11/02/2017
Gender Identity: Male Township: Bingham Current Appointment: 05/14/2020
Ethnic Background: White Resid/Spec Req: Bingham Township Expiration: 03/31/2023
Age Range: Special Repr: Bingham Township Number of Terms: 2
Dr Andrew Landstrom
10 First Appointed: 05/14/2020
Gender Identity: Male Township: Hillsborough Current Appointment: 05/14/2020
Ethnic Background: Other Resid/Spec Req: Hillsborough Town Limits Expiration: 09/30/2022
Age Range: 35-59 Special Repr: Number of Terms: 1
Ms. Gina Reyman
11 First Appointed: 06/06/2017
Gender Identity: Female Township: Eno Current Appointment: 12/06/2021
Ethnic Background: White Resid/Spec Req: Eno Township Expiration: 12/31/2024
Age Range: Special Repr: Eno Township Number of Terms: 2
Dr. Haywood Rhodes
12 First Appointed: 04/21/2015
Gender Identity: Male Township: Hillsborough Current Appointment: 04/16/2019
Ethnic Background: White Resid/Spec Req: At-Large Expiration: 03/31/2022
Age Range: Special Repr: At-Large Number of Terms: 2
Tuesday,February 1,2022 Page 2
26
Applicant Interest Listing by Board Name and by Applicant Name
Contact Person: David Stancil
Orange County Parks and Recreation Council Contact Phone: 919-245-2522
Christopher Austin
Gender Identity: Male Date Applied: 11/03/2020
Ethnic Background: White Township: Hillsborough
Age Range: 18-34 Res.Eligibility: Hillsborough Town Limits
Also Serves On:
Jessie L. Birckhead
Gender Identity: Female Date Applied: 08/21/2021
Ethnic Background: White Township: Little River
Age Range: 18-34 Res.Eligibility: County
Also Serves On: Commission for the Environment
Martin DeWitt
Gender Identity: Male Date Applied: 01/06/2020
Ethnic Background: White Township: Hillsborough
Age Range: 18-34 Res.Eligibility: Hillsborough Town Limits
Also Serves On:
Ms Jaya Nair
Gender Identity: Female Date Applied: 10/27/2021
Ethnic Background: Asian American Township: Chapel Hill
Age Range: 35-59 Res.Eligibility: C.H.City Limits
Also Serves On: Commission for the Environment
Will D. Spoon
Gender Identity: Male Date Applied: 09/22/2021
Ethnic Background: Other Township: Hillsborough
Age Range: 35-59 Res.Eligibility: Hillsborough Town Limits
Also Serves On:
Rebecca Truluck
Gender Identity: Female Date Applied: 10/03/2021
Ethnic Background: White Township: Hillsborough
Age Range: 18-34 Res.Eligibility: Hillsborough Town Limits
Also Serves On:
Tuesday,February 1,2022 Page 1 of 1