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HomeMy WebLinkAboutAgenda 04-14-2026; 10 - Parks and Recreation Council – Appointments Discussion 1 ORANGE COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS ACTION AGENDA ITEM ABSTRACT Meeting Date: April 14, 2026 Action Agenda Item No. 10 SUBJECT: Parks and Recreation Council — Appointments Discussion DEPARTMENT: Board of Commissioners ATTACHMENT(S): INFORMATION CONTACT: Recommendations Clerk's Office, 919-245-2125 Members and Applicants Summary Sheet Applications for Persons Recommended Applications of Other Eligible Applicant Membership Roster Applicant Interest List One Other Eligible Applicant Annual Work Plan PURPOSE: To discuss appointments to the Parks and Recreation Council. BACKGROUND: The 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 twelve (12) members, with representatives from each of the County's townships and municipalities, and two (2) non-voting youth delegates. The following individuals are recommended for Board consideration: NAME POSITION TYPE OF EXPIRATION DESCRIPTION APPOINTMENT DATE TERM Vladimir Colina Chapel Hill City First Full Term 03/31/2029 Limits Prof. Dr. Chapel Hill First Full Term 03/31/2029 Acharan Township Narula If the individuals listed above are appointed, the following vacancies remain: 2 POSITION EXPIRATION VACANCY INFORMATION DESIGNATION DATE Carrboro City 03/31/2027 Vacant since 08/14/2025 Limits Little River 03/31/2026 Vacant since 10/20/2025 Township FINANCIAL IMPACT: There is no financial impact associated with this item. ALIGNMENT WITH STRATEGIC PLAN: This item supports: • GUIDING PRINCIPLE — INCLUSIVITY AND ENGAGEMENT We foster an environment in which all are welcomed, represented, and empowered to participate in and feel connected to their community. • GUIDING PRINCIPLE — DEDICATION AND RESPECT We commit to our roles in public service and organizational excellence by fostering the skills, talents, and innovation of our residents, employees, volunteers, and boards needed to carry out this work. RECOMMENDATION(S): The Manager recommends that the Board discuss appointments to the Parks and Recreation Council. 3 Utange eacattSt J a46 and wcwA icn eawwA PO Box 8181, 1020 US HWY 70 W, Hillsborough, NC (919) 245-2510 March 18th,2026 Board of County Commissioners PO Box 8181 Hillsborough,NC 27278 Re: Recommended Appointment The Orange County Parks and Recreation Council(PRC)discussed its Chapel Hill City Limits seat(seat #4), and the Chapel Hill Township seat(seat#7) at their meeting on March 4, and recommends that applicant Vladimir Colina be appointed to the Chapel Hill City Limits position previously held by Xilong Zhao,and recommends that applicant Acharan Narula be appointed to the Chapel Hill Township seat previously held by Maggie Moriarty. Thank you for your consideration of this appointment. Sincerely, Natalie Ziemba, Chair Parks and Recreation Council Copies: Louise Flinn,Vice-Chair Parks and Recreation Council David Stancil,DEAPR Director 4 Parks and Recreation Council Board Members and Applicants Name Member or Applicant? Gender Identity Race/Ethnic Background Age Range Township Also Serves on Kristofer Cason Member Male White 35-59 Chapel Hill Natalie C.Ziemba Member Female White 18-34 Hillsborough Marissa Hoer Member Female White 35-59 Hillsborough Allen B.Parker Member Male White 35-59 Cheeks Louise Flinn Member Female White 35-59 Bingham Alissa Martucci Member Female Other 35-59 Hillsborough Shahnaz GiGi Rashdi Member Female Asian American 60+ Eno Advisory Board on Aging Trevor Robinson Member Choose not to disclose Other 18-34 Eno Chloe Reid Youth Delegate Female White 13-17 Chapel Hill Navya Sharma Youth Delegate Female Other 13-17 Chapel Hill VACANT Carrboro City Limits VACANT Chapel Hill City Limits VACANT Chapel Hill Township VACANT Little River Township Brock Bromberger(youth) Applicant Male White 13-17 Chapel Hill John Brown Applicant Male White 35-59 Chapel Hill Vladimir Colina Applicant Male Hispanic 35-59 Chapel Hill Jody Eimers Applicant Female White 60+ Eno Conrad Kline(youth) Applicant Male Asian American 13-17 Chapel Hill Segev Leitner(youth) Applicant Male White 13-17 Chapel Hill Craig Lloyd Applicant Male White 35-59 Cheeks Chapel Hill Orange County Visitors Bureau Advisory Board Aum Menon(youth) Applicant Male Asian American 13-17 Chapel Hill Prof.Dr.Acharan Narula Applicant Male Asian American 60+ Chapel Hill Henry Nysewander (youth) Applicant Male White 13 17 Chapel Hill Kai.i Rashad Applicant Male Other 18-34 Cheeks Orange Unified Transportation Board Gary Sawhney Applicant Male Asian American 60+ Chapel Hill William Totten Applicant Male White 60+ Eno Agricultural Preservation Board Mark Turner Applicant Imale lWhite 35-59 IChapel Hill Jossie Zhong(youth) Applicant Female 10ther 13-17 IChapel Hill 5 Page 1 of 2 Vladimir Colina Volunteer Application Orange County Advisory Boards and Commissions Name: Vladimir Colina Name Called: Home Address: 102 Corbin Hill Cir. Chapel Hill NC 27514 Phone: 305-748-0704 Email: Vcolina70@yahoo.com Year of OC Residence: 2024 Township of Residence: Chapel Hill Zone of Residence: C.H. City Limits Gender Identity: Male Ethnic Background: Hispanic Age Range: 35-59 Community Activities/Organizational Memberships: Friends of Piedmont Carolina Club Past Service on Orange County Advisory Boards: N/A Boards/Commissions applied for: Orange County Broadband Task Force Please explain how your background, education and experience is relevant to this board My background in marketing at Coca-Cola and product management at Devir Games equips me with strategic communication, market analysis, and project management skills, ideal for advancing the Orange County Broadband Task Force's mission to enhance connectivity and community engagement. Please explain your reasons for wanting to serve on this board I want to join the Orange County Broadband Task Force to serve the community by improving access to reliable broadband, fostering digital equity, and enhancing opportunities for education and economic growth. How would your particpation on this board contribute to the diversity of viewpoints? My participation will bring diverse perspectives from my marketing and product management experience, offering innovative strategies and a community-focused approach to enhance broadband accessibility and inclusion. Do you have any personal or business interest(s)that could create a conflict of interest (either real or perceived) if you are appointed to this board? Parks and Recreation Council Please explain how your background, education and experience is relevant to this board 6 Page 2 of 2 Vladimir Colina My seven years in the board games and family entertainment industry, combined with marketing experience at Coca-Cola and product management at Devir Games, equip me with expertise in creating engaging, community-focused recreational activities, ideal for advancing the Parks and Recreation Council's mission. Please explain your reasons for wanting to serve on this board I am passionate about serving the community by promoting inclusive, fun, and accessible recreational opportunities through parks and programs, fostering family connections and community well-being. How would your particpation on this board contribute to the diversity of viewpoints? My extensive experience in board games and family entertainment brings a unique perspective on innovative, interactive recreation, enriching the Council's efforts to create diverse, community-driven park experiences. Do you have any personal or business interest(s)that could create a conflict of interest (either real or perceived) if you are appointed to this board? Boards/Commissions appointments: Other Comments: This application was current on: 10/24/2025 7:12:47 AM Date Printed: 10/24/2025 7 Page 1 of 2 Acharan Narula Volunteer Application Orange County Advisory Boards and Commissions Name: Prof. Dr. Acharan Narula Name Called: Home Address: 107 Boulder Bluff Trail Chapel Hill NC 27516 Phone: 919-967-7621 Email: anarula1 @nc.rr.com Year of OC Residence: 1972 Township of Residence: Chapel Hill Zone of Residence: County Gender Identity: Male Ethnic Background: Asian American Age Range: 60+ Community Activities/Organizational Memberships: Participation as a member for: Hindu Society of North Carolina,Morrisville, NC Ramakrishna Vedanta Society of North Carolina, Morrisville, NC Sikh Guridwara of North Carolina, Durham, NC Past Service on Orange County Advisory Boards: None Boards/Commissions applied for: Orange County Parks and Recreation Council Please explain how your background, education and experience is relevant to this board I am now 81 years of age and I love Parks. I am a member of NC Arboretum, Asheville, NC. With my+55 years of research experience in Organic Chemistry, Natural Products, Biology, Medicine and medicinal plants, I can contribute positively to the objectives of Orange County Parks and Recreation Council. Please explain your reasons for wanting to serve on this board To learn something new. I am committed to learning something new every day. If only people understood that education is the manifestation of perfection already in man, we will enjoy nature more than people do it today. I believe I can make the difference! How would your particpation on this board contribute to the diversity of viewpoints? I have lived in India, France, Australia and now in the USA. Therefore, I can bring ideas that command universal respect to honor nature. Do you have any personal or business interest(s) that could create a conflict of interest (either real or perceived) if you are appointed to this board? Boards/Commissions appointments: 8 Page 2 of 2 Acharan Narula Other Comments: This application was current on: 3/26/2024 9:25:08 PM Date Printed: 3/27/2024 9 Page 1 of 2 John Brown Volunteer Application Orange County Advisory Boards and Commissions Name: Mr. John Brown Name Called: Home Address: 5900 Mount Sinai Rd. Durham NC 27705 Phone: 860-993-9354 Email: JJBrown0058@att.net Year of OC Residence: 2023 Township of Residence: Chapel Hill Zone of Residence: County Gender Identity: Male Ethnic Background: White Age Range: 35-59 Community Activities/Organizational Memberships: Member of the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks, Connecticut/Lodge #19. Past Service on Orange County Advisory Boards: None Boards/Commissions applied for: Orange County Planning Board Please explain how your background, education and experience is relevant to this board I have been working in IT organizations for several large businesses for over 30 years. This work has allowed me to develop interpersonal communication and project management skills, as well as fundamental understanding of what it means to be part of a team to be successful. My BBA degree is Finance, and my MBA is in Marketing. Please explain your reasons for wanting to serve on this board I have been interested in being more involved in my community for a while. This led me to join the Benevolent Protective Order of Elks when I lived in Connecticut. When my wife and I moved back to her hometown (Durham)we built our home on her great grandparents' property, I have been looking for a way to be more involved with our community. How would your particpation on this board contribute to the diversity of viewpoints? While my extended family has deep roots to the area, I bring a newcomer's perspective to work for the future of our community. I recognize and appreciate the importance of traditions, as they are the ribbons that tie one generation to the next. Do you have any personal or business interest(s)that could create a conflict of interest (either real or perceived) if you are appointed to this board? Historic Preservation Commission Please explain how your background, education and experience is relevant to this board 10 Page 2 of 2 John Brown While living in Connecticut, I volunteered for the state chapter of the National History Day committee. I participated as a judge for high school students submission for the state wide competition and submission to the national competition. I am very passionate about history and I feel this passion would be beneficial to the committee. Please explain your reasons for wanting to serve on this board I enjoy history and believe that by preserving it for future generations is a window to our past (right or wrong) and a lighthouse to our future. How would your particpation on this board contribute to the diversity of viewpoints? By being someone new to this part of our country, I would absorb the history of orange county. Then from that perspective would contribute to what a visitor or new resident would like to learn about their new community. Fun fact, until I moved here, I didn t know about the Orange County Speedway and how Mr. France wanted to build his next superspeedway here. Also I didn t know that General Sherman accepted the remaining Confederate Army surrender at Bennett Place. Do you have any personal or business interest(s)that could create a conflict of interest (either real or perceived) if you are appointed to this board? Orange County Parks and Recreation Council Please explain how your background, education and experience is relevant to this board As child growing up, our town s park and recreation department provided a lot fun experiences to me. While I am today a more passive participant(Pickleball and Golf), I believe that the county s investment plays a big role in developing people and our community. Please explain your reasons for wanting to serve on this board Really just looking to more involved and since I do participate in Pickleball program, I would like give back some of my time. How would your particpation on this board contribute to the diversity of viewpoints? As a new resident, I would bring that perspective to the committee. Do you have any personal or business interest(s)that could create a conflict of interest (either real or perceived) if you are appointed to this board? Boards/Commissions appointments: Other Comments: This application was current on: 7/9/2024 5:53:20 PM Date Printed: 7/12/2024 11 Page 1 of 3 Gary Sawhney Volunteer Application Orange County Advisory Boards and Commissions Name: Mr. Gary Sawhney Name Called: Home Address: 3700 High Meadow Rd. Chapel Hill NC 27514 Phone: 919-536-8877 Email: gary.sawhney@gmail.com Year of OC Residence: 2003 Township of Residence: Chapel Hill Zone of Residence: County Gender Identity: Male Ethnic Background: Asian American Age Range: 60+ Community Activities/Organizational Memberships: President & CFO Co-Founder, NCIAP People s Medical Care (https-//nciap.org/) (Non- Profit Medical Care Services for the Uninsured and Under-insured). Serving for 15 years uninsured and under insured people who have not seen doctor in their lifetime. It s a great honor to be a cofounder of NCIAP People s Medical Care. I'm involved with habitat of Orange County. I am working with religious Sikh and Hindu temples. Past Service on Orange County Advisory Boards: None Boards/Commissions applied for: Orange County Planning Board Please explain how your background, education and experience is relevant to this board I have masters in life sciences and mba in finance. I have some ideas what can be done which can improve the life of Orange County residence. I am cofounder of Nclap.org which serves NC community for last 13 years without health insurance or under insured. Please explain your reasons for wanting to serve on this board I just retired and wants to give back to the community. How would your particpation on this board contribute to the diversity of viewpoints? With background of Indian origin and Sikh believes can help and add the value to the board. Do you have any personal or business interest(s)that could create a conflict of interest (either real or perceived) if you are appointed to this board? Parks and Recreation Council 12 Page 2 of 3 Gary Sawhney Please explain how your background, education and experience is relevant to this board I have masters in life sciences and mba in finance. I have some ideas what can be done which can improve the life of Orange County residence. I am cofounder of Nclap.org which serves NC community for last 13 years without health insurance or under insured. Please explain your reasons for wanting to serve on this board I just retired and wants to give back to the community. How would your particpation on this board contribute to the diversity of viewpoints? With background of Indian origin and Sikh believes can help and add the value to the board. Do you have any personal or business interest(s)that could create a conflict of interest (either real or perceived) if you are appointed to this board? Agricultural Preservation Board Please explain how your background, education and experience is relevant to this board I hold M.Sc in Agriculture and volunteer in the Land Devp committee with Triangle Land Conservancy-with loving env, I believe my background and exp can help the board to navigate the issues. Please explain your reasons for wanting to serve on this board Agri and environmental are the backbone of this country, Schooling, serving and loving the nature can help the board to make it happen. How would your particpation on this board contribute to the diversity of viewpoints? I am born and raised in India, I did my M.Sc from the Indian Agri University. in NCIAP clinic we serve all Americans irrespective of the race, color and gender. Do you have any personal or business interest(s)that could create a conflict of interest (either real or perceived) if you are appointed to this board? Board of Health Please explain how your background, education and experience is relevant to this board I am deeply grateful to serve NCIAP founded on compassion, with a commitment to serve those most in need. I have always believed in serving and helping others. Because in the end, it is not what we achieve for ourselves rather it is what we do for others! This belief motivated me to lay the foundation for NCIAP with others. With knowing the issues and working with patients closely can help the board on day to day issues. Please explain your reasons for wanting to serve on this board Every single call I get from someone asking for help to be seen at the clinic reminds me of what this clinic provides to our community. Since co-founding NCIAP fifteen years, I have served as a CFO for NCIAP. To serve is my goal. How would your particpation on this board contribute to the diversity of viewpoints? I will remain steadfast in our mission to treat every patient with dignity and respect. Being a minority, I know that how others feel about it. Do you have any personal or business interest(s)that could create a conflict of interest (either real or perceived) if you are appointed to this board? Commission for the Environment 13 Page 3 of 3 Gary Sawhney Please explain how your background, education and experience is relevant to this board With Master s in Agri and exp have made me to serve on the board. Working on Land Devp committee with Triangle Land Conservancy can help the board to navigate day to day issues. Please explain your reasons for wanting to serve on this board I have always believed in serving and helping others. Because in the end, it is not what we achieve for ourselves rather it is what we do for others! This belief motivated me to lay the foundation for NCIAP with others and serving 65,000 patients for last 15 years. How would your particpation on this board contribute to the diversity of viewpoints? This is most important issue facing this country to treat everyone equally. I am that man who can do that! Do you have any personal or business interest(s)that could create a conflict of interest (either real or perceived) if you are appointed to this board? Boards/Commissions appointments: Other Comments: Applied for Planning Board and Parks and Recreation Council 8/7/2024 9:36:27 AM Applied for Ag. Preservation Board, Board of Health, and Commission for the Environment 2/17/2026 4:24:17 PM This application was current on: 2/17/2026 4:24:17 PM Date Printed: 2/19/2026 14 Page 1 of 2 Mark Turner Volunteer Application Orange County Advisory Boards and Commissions Name: Mark Turner Name Called: Home Address: 411 Robin Rd. Chapel Hill NC 27516 Phone: 919-328-0179 Email: mturner1167@gmail.com Year of OC Residence: 1993 Township of Residence: Chapel Hill Zone of Residence: County Gender Identity: Male Ethnic Background: White Age Range: 35-59 Community Activities/Organizational Memberships: Volunteer tutor with the Orange County Literacy Council. Member of NC State Bar. Past Service on Orange County Advisory Boards: none Boards/Commissions applied for: Orange County Parks and Recreation Council Please explain how your background, education and experience is relevant to this board As a lawyer, I understand the necessity to gather facts, compile arguments, and persuade people in order to build consensus around a course of action. Please explain your reasons for wanting to serve on this board I am a long-time user of Orange County's outdoor greenspace, including parks and trails and want to see them improved and expanded in order to keep Orange County an appealing place to live. How would your particpation on this board contribute to the diversity of viewpoints? I was raised in California, went to college in Boston, and graduate school in NC. I studied Biology as an undergraduate, health policy analysis in graduate school, and subsequently, the law. Accordingly, I have engaged with people holding a wide variety of viewpoints. Perhaps this background will add to the diversity of the board. Do you have any personal or business interest(s)that could create a conflict of interest (either real or perceived) if you are appointed to this board? Chapel Hill Parks, Greenways and Recreation Commission Please explain how your background, education and experience is relevant to this board As a lawyer, I understand the necessity to gather facts, compile arguments, and persuade people in order to build consensus around a course of action. Please explain your reasons for wanting to serve on this board 15 Page 2 of 2 Mark Turner I am a long-time user of Chapel Hill's outdoor greenspace, including parks and trails and want to see them improved and expanded in order to keep Orange County an appealing place to live. How would your particpation on this board contribute to the diversity of viewpoints? I was raised in California, went to college in Boston, and graduate school in NC. I studied Biology as an undergraduate, health policy analysis in graduate school, and subsequently, the law. Accordingly, I have engaged with people holding a wide variety of viewpoints. Perhaps this background will add to the diversity of the board. Do you have any personal or business interest(s)that could create a conflict of interest (either real or perceived) if you are appointed to this board? Boards/Commissions appointments: Other Comments: This application was current on: 11/21/2024 2:35:52 PM Date Printed: 11/21/2024 16 Board and Commission Members And Vacant Positions Parks and Recreation Council Meeting Times: 6:30 pm First Wednesday of every month Contact Person:David Stancil&Abby Mattingly Meeting Place: Bonnie B.Davis Environment&Agricultural Center Contact Phone: 919-245-2522 Positions: 14 Length:3 years Terms: 2 Description: <div>The 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.</div> VACANT 1 First Appointed: Gender Identity: Township: Current Appointment: Ethnic Background: Residency Req: Carrboro City Limits Expiration: 03/31/2027 Age Range: Special Repr: Number of Terms: Mr. Kristofer Cason 2 First Appointed: 03/18/2025 Gender Identity: Male Township: Chapel Hill Current Appointment: 03/18/2025 Ethnic Background: White Residency Req: Hillsborough Twnshp Expiration: 03/31/2028 Age Range: 35-59 Special Repr: Hillsborough Township Number of Terms: 1 Natalie C. Ziemba 3 Chair First Appointed: 10/05/2021 Gender Identity: Female Township: Hillsborough Current Appointment: 03/19/2024 Ethnic Background: White Residency Req: Cedar Grove Twnsp Expiration: 03/31/2027 Age Range: 18-34 Special Repr: At-Large(formerly Cedar Grove Townshi Number of Terms: 2 VACANT 4 First Appointed: Gender Identity: Township: Current Appointment: Ethnic Background: Residency Req: C.H.City Limits Expiration: 03/31/2026 Age Range: Special Repr: Number of Terms: Marissa Hoer 5 First Appointed: 03/17/2026 Gender Identity: Female Township: Hillsborough Current Appointment: 03/17/2026 Ethnic Background: White Residency Req: At-Large Expiration: 03/31/2028 Age Range: 35-59 Special Repr: At-Large Number of Terms: 1 Allen B. Parker 6 First Appointed: 05/07/2024 Gender Identity: Male Township: Cheeks Current Appointment: 05/07/2024 Ethnic Background: White Residency Req: Cheeks Township Expiration: 03/31/2027 Age Range: 35-59 Special Repr: Cheeks Township Number of Terms: 1 Thursday,April 2,2026 Page 1 17 Board and Commission Members And Vacant Positions Parks and Recreation Council Meeting Times: 6:30 pm First Wednesday of every month Contact Person:David Stancil&Abby Mattingly Meeting Place: Bonnie B.Davis Environment&Agricultural Center Contact Phone: 919-245-2522 Positions: 14 Length:3 years Terms: 2 VACANT 7 First Appointed: Gender Identity: Township: Current Appointment: Ethnic Background: Residency Req: Chapel Hill Twnshp Expiration: 03/31/2026 Age Range: Special Repr: Chapel Hil Township Number of Terms: VACANT 8 First Appointed: Gender Identity: Township: Current Appointment: Ethnic Background: Residency Req: Little River Township Expiration: 03/31/2026 Age Range: Special Repr: Little River Township Number of Terms: Ms. Louise Flinn 9 First Appointed: 05/16/2023 Gender Identity: Female Township: Bingham Current Appointment: 03/17/2026 Ethnic Background: White Residency Req: Bingham Township Expiration: 03/31/2029 Age Range: 35-59 Special Repr: Bingham Township Number of Terms: 2 Mrs. Alissa Martucci 10 First Appointed: 02/25/2025 Gender Identity: Female Township: Hillsborough Current Appointment: 10/21/2025 Ethnic Background: Other Residency Req: Hillsborough Town Limits Expiration: 09/30/2028 Age Range: 35-59 Special Repr: Number of Terms: 1 Shahnaz GiGi Rashdi 11 First Appointed: 11/19/2024 Gender Identity: Female Township: Eno Current Appointment: 11/19/2024 Ethnic Background: Asian American Residency Req: Eno Township Expiration: 12/31/2027 Age Range: 60+ Special Repr: Eno Township Number of Terms: 1 Mr. Trevor Robinson 12 First Appointed: 05/16/2023 Gender Identity: Choose not to disclo Township: Eno Current Appointment: 03/18/2025 Ethnic Background: Other Residency Req: At-Large Expiration: 03/31/2028 Age Range: 18-34 Special Repr: At-Large Number of Terms: 1 Thursday,April 2,2026 Page 2 18 Board and Commission Members And Vacant Positions Parks and Recreation Council Meeting Times: 6:30 pm First Wednesday of every month Contact Person:David Stancil&Abby Mattingly Meeting Place: Bonnie B.Davis Environment&Agricultural Center Contact Phone: 919-245-2522 Positions: 14 Length:3 years Terms: 2 Chloe Reid 13 First Appointed: 02/25/2025 Gender Identity: Female Township: Chapel Hill Current Appointment: 10/21/2025 Ethnic Background: White Residency Req: At-Large Expiration: 12/31/2028 Age Range: 13-17 Special Repr: Youth Member(non-voting) Number of Terms: 1 Navya Sharma 14 First Appointed: 02/25/2025 Gender Identity: Female Township: Chapel Hill Current Appointment: 03/17/2026 Ethnic Background: Other Residency Req: Expiration: 03/31/2029 Age Range: 13-17 Special Repr: Youth Member(non-voting) Number of Terms: 1 Thursday,April 2,2026 Page 3 19 Applicant Interest Listing by Board Name and by Applicant Name Contact Person: David Stancil&Abby Mattingly Parks and Recreation Council Contact Phone: 919-245-2522 Brock Bromberger Gender Identity: Male Date Applied: 12/10/2024 Ethnic Background: White Township: Chapel Hill Age Range: 13-17 Zone of Residence: C.H.City Limits Also Serves On: Mr. John Brown Gender Identity: Male Date Applied: 07/09/2024 Ethnic Background: White Township: Chapel Hill Age Range: 35-59 Zone of Residence: County Also Serves On: Vladimir Colina Gender Identity: Male Date Applied: 10/24/2025 Ethnic Background: Hispanic Township: Chapel Hill Age Range: 35-59 Zone of Residence: C.H.City Limits Also Serves On: Ms. Jody Eimers Gender Identity: Female Date Applied: 12/28/2024 Ethnic Background: White Township: Eno Age Range: 60+ Zone of Residence: County Also Serves On: Conrad Kline Gender Identity: Male Date Applied: 12/08/2024 Ethnic Background: Asian American Township: Chapel Hill Age Range: 13-17 Zone of Residence: C.H.City Limits Also Serves On: Segev Leitner Gender Identity: Male Date Applied: 12/03/2024 Ethnic Background: White Township: Chapel Hill Age Range: 13-17 Zone of Residence: C.H.City Limits Also Serves On: Thursday,April 2,2026 Page 1 of 3 20 Applicant Interest Listing by Board Name and by Applicant Name Contact Person: David Stancil&Abby Mattingly Parks and Recreation Council Contact Phone: 919-245-2522 Mr. Craig Lloyd Gender Identity: Male Date Applied: 08/28/2024 Ethnic Background: White Township: Cheeks Age Range: 35-59 Zone of Residence: County Also Serves On: Chapel Hill Orange County Visitors Bureau Advisory Board Aum Menon Gender Identity: Male Date Applied: 12/20/2024 Ethnic Background: Asian American Township: Chapel Hill Age Range: 13-17 Zone of Residence: C.H.City Limits Also Serves On: Prof.Acharan Narula Dr. Gender Identity: Date Applied: 03/27/2024 Ethnic Background: Asian American Township: Chapel Hill Age Range: 60+ Zone of Residence: County Also Serves On: Henry Nysewander Gender Identity: Male Date Applied: 12/10/2024 Ethnic Background: White Township: Chapel Hill Age Range: 13-17 Zone of Residence: C.H.City Limits Also Serves On: Kaj i Rashad Gender Identity: Male Date Applied: 07/22/2024 Ethnic Background: Other Township: Cheeks Age Range: 18-34 Zone of Residence: Town of Mebane City Limits Also Serves On: Orange Unified Transportation Board Thursday,April 2,2026 Page 2 of 3 21 Applicant Interest Listing by Board Name and by Applicant Name Contact Person: David Stancil&Abby Mattingly Parks and Recreation Council Contact Phone: 919-245-2522 Mr. Gary Sawhney Gender Identity: Male Date Applied: 02/17/2026 Ethnic Background: Asian American Township: Chapel Hill Age Range: 60+ Zone of Residence: County Also Serves On: Mr. William Totten Gender Identity: Male Date Applied: 05/08/2024 Ethnic Background: White Township: Eno Age Range: 60+ Zone of Residence: County Also Serves On: Agricultural Preservation Board Mark Turner Gender Identity: Male Date Applied: 11/21/2024 Ethnic Background: White Township: Chapel Hill Age Range: 35-59 Zone of Residence: County Also Serves On: Jossie Zhong Gender Identity: Female Date Applied: 12/07/2024 Ethnic Background: Other Township: Chapel Hill Age Range: 13-17 Zone of Residence: Carrboro City Limits Also Serves On: Thursday,April 2,2026 Page 3 of 3 22 ORANGE COUNTY BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS ANNUAL REPORT AND WORK PLAN Name of Board/Commission: Parks and Recreation Council Report Period: January 2025 - December 2025 The Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) appreciates the dedication of all volunteers on Orange County boards and commissions and asks each body to complete an Annual Report and Work Plan. This document will inform the BOCC of the activities each board/commission has conducted over the past year and detail a plan for future activities. These activities should be consistent with the board/commission's assigned charge and the goals identified in the Orange County Strategic Plan (Strategic Plan). General information about the Strategic Plan is available here. Person to address the BOCC, title, and contact information: Natalie Ziemba, Chair (natalieziemba@yahoo.com) Primary staff contact: David Stancil, DEAPR Director (dstancil@orangecountync.gov) 1. How many times per month does this board/commission meet, including any special meetings and subcommittee meetings? Regular meetings are the first Wednesday of each month (except for January and July), plus a biennial joint town/county advisory board meeting. Members also participate in semi-annual Intergovernmental Parks Work Group meetings 2. Please briefly describe this board/commission's assigned charge and responsibilities. Board-specific Policies and Procedures documents, which detail the charge and responsibilities for each board/commission, are available here. The Council serves as the advisory board for provision of parks facilities and recreation programs. It suggests policies, within its powers and responsibilities as stated in Article 26 of the Code of Ordinances. The Council shall consult with and advise the Board of Commissioners and staff in matters affecting recreation policies and programs, advise on the acquisition of parkland and lands for recreation programs, and advise on individual park master plans and long-range planning for recreation and parks, including the development of plans, studies and reports. 23 3. What are your board/commission's most important accomplishments during the report period? The Council is the steering committee and lead advisory board for the Orange County Trails Plan that is underway and worked with consultant and staff to develop workshop materials and develop goals and objectives. In addition, the PRC has received regular reports and providing feedback on the Mountains to Sea Trail progress, parks design and construction projects, and receives regular thorough updates on parks status and recreation programs and activities from staff. The PRC has also advised the Board and Staff on a variety of topics, including: • Advise on planning, design, and construction of new park facilities, including the new Perry Hills Mini-Park. • Provide feedback on the Lands Legacy Action Plan as relates to new parks and public open space. • Hearing from local residents about community recreation or park facility needs, developing recommendations as needed. • Capital funding recommendations for parks/open space (Capital Investment Plan) • Sponsor the annual Nature of Orange Photography Contest. • Periodic site visits to County Parks. • Review and feedback on recreation and athletic programs. 4. Please list any specific tasks, events, or functions performed or sponsored annually. • Assists in Great Trail State Coalition events and hikes • Receive updates on the Mountains to Sea Trail (MST) • Co-sponsor the Nature of Orange Photography Contest • Representation on the Intergovernmental Parks Work Group • Support department functions and special events • Review of annual CIP proposals for parks • Receive annual report and provide feedback on recreation programs • Receive annual report and provide feedback on parks and facilities • Prepare Annual Report and Work Plan for BOCC 5. Describe this board/commission's activities/accomplishments in carrying out the goals identified in the Orange County Strategic Plan. General information about the Strategic Plan is available here. • Serve as steering committee for Orange County Trails Plan (Goal 1 Objective 5) • Advise on recreational, and parks programs and facilities, as well as serving as co-sponsor for the Nature of Orange Photography Contest (Goal 2 Objective 8) • The PRC also was the lead advisory board in the creation of the Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2030. (Goal 5) • The PRC was the lead advisory board for the Parks and Recreation Element of 24 the Comprehensive Plan, and regularly reviews progress toward the Land Use Plan 2050 progress (Goal 1, Objective 5). • The PRC reviews, as needed, site plans for major subdivision applications in the county's jurisdiction and as needed makes recommendations on potential land dedication for parks and open space. (Goal 5) • The Council reviews plans and advises on new park construction and openings (such as Blackwood Farm Park, Hollow Rock Nature Park), and participates in park master planning efforts such as the recent Perry Hills MiniPark. (Goal 6) 6. Describe any collaboration between this board/commission and other boards and commissions. Some members of the PRC also sit on other advisory boards, such as the Commission for the Environment and the New Hope Creek Corridor Advisory Board. The Council also has a member on the Intergovernmental Parks Work Group and has in the past met with and shared information with the Board of Health on opportunities for linking healthy lifestyles and parks. The PRC biennially meets with its sister advisory boards in the three towns, with the next session projected to occur in 2026. The Council has also advised and reviewed information from the Historic Preservation Commission, Orange County Sportsplex, the Town of Hillsborough, Fairview Community Watch, the Occoneechee Tribal Council and the Alliance for Historic Hillsborough (River Park), among others. 7. Identify any activities this board/commission expects to carry out in 2026 that are related to the Orange County Strategic Plan. General information about the Strategic Plan is available here. If applicable, please list any fiscal impact (i.e., funding, staff time, other resources) associated with these proposed activities. • The Council will be informed on and begin the process of review and preliminary discussion for the scheduled 2029 replacement of the Central Recreation Center. (Strategic Plan Goal 2.8) • The PRC reviewed proposed master plan revisions for the next phase of Blackwood Farm Park and plans to provide continued advice and feedback as construction plans proceed. The Council would also like to see native planting and pollinator friendly habitat efforts accompany this initiative. (Strategic Plan Goal 1.7 and 2.8) • The PRC plans to continue promoting activities toward trail planning and development and advise on the efforts with the "Great Trails State Coalition," of which the County is a member. The Council would like to sponsor quarterly or semiannual public hikes at our parks. Continued review and advice on the Mountains to Sea Trail progress, along with the 2026 Nature of Orange photography contest, is projected. (Strategic Plan Goal 2.8) • Promote shared usage of facilities between the County and the Orange County Schools (Strategic Plan Goal 5.1) 25 • Continue to serve as the County Trails Plan steering committee, provided advice and feedback as needed. This effort will look at current and planned future trails, and explore gaps, interconnections and needs for the future. The Council also plans to coordinate in the parallel Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan effort with the OUT Board and Transportation Department (Strategic Plan Goal 4.2) • The Council reviewed the need for a County recreational public water feature. The Council wishes to promote implementation of a SplashPad in the future, at a site to be determined, based on community interest and funding availability. (Goal 2.8). • Review potential missing amenities at parks, drawing upon information from the inventory of parks facilities, provided in the 2030 Parks and Recreation Master Plan. As the 2030 Master Plan comes to an end, such conversations will inform the planning for the next master plan, the initial planning of which should begin in 2027. (Goal 2.8) 8. What concerns or emerging issues does this board/commission anticipate for the upcoming year that it plans to address or wishes to bring to the BOCC's attention? • The demand on the County's existing soccer fields and tennis/pickleball courts continues to be a concern raised to the Council and staff on a regular basis. While the new tennis/pickleball courts at Fairview will help address this, other courts exist and could be made available to meet demand. In particular, the Council notes the 14 tennis courts that exist at Orange High and Cedar Ridge High. As previously noted, it is our understanding these courts have been largely unavailable for public use since the pandemic. Allowing these courts to come back into public use during specified timeframes that do not conflict with school uses would be desirable. As there is no longer an expansion of the Soccer.com Center and Millhouse Road Park (soccer center), new opportunities for public soccer fields in central and northern Orange County need to be found. The Council understands the many financial constraints the County is faced with but would encourage finding a way to increase the soccer field inventory in the next three to five years. • The need for indoor recreation and gymnasium space also continues to be a major concern, and the Council is appreciative of the acknowledgment of this in the CIP with the planned new Recreation Center. The County's lone recreation center, the Central Rec Center on West Tryon Street in Hillsborough, is now 68 years old, and the Council hopes that the new project can stay on track to meet the significant demand that exists for indoor gym space. The current Central Rec Center continues to be "maxed out" in terms of space, with the County unable to fully serve the existing demand from our residents. We encourage the planning for the new center to continue to take into consideration not just the replacement of the 1957 facility but needed additional space to accommodate existing and future demand. 26 • As noted in last year's plan, and mentioned above, there are many opportunities for facility sharing with the Orange County Schools. This topic has been discussed at length in years past, with efforts undertaken to attempt to address the potential. In many counties in North Carolina there is a robust system of facility sharing between school facilities and public recreation needs. With the passage of the Schools Bond, the Council would like to suggest that future school planning/construction (and existing facilities) look for ways to make these facilities available for public usage. • The Countywide Trails Plan will be an important blueprint to pull together existing plans and identify new needs. It is important that the Town's trail and greenway plans be linked and coordinated in this document, and we look forward to conversations with our colleagues in the towns about interconnectivity. • The County is receiving increased interest in nature, historic, and other cross-cultural programs at our parks, both from partner organizations and individuals. Partnerships can be forged with fellow County Advisory Boards, other County departments, non-profit organizations and the school systems. The County should look to ramp up its nature programming to meet this demand, and such programs would have the double benefit of being cost- neutral and improving the community's health and quality of life. • Opportunities to increase art and natural beauty within our parks and preserves continues to exist. This could include proactively incorporating art in parks at the design phase and creating more areas of natural beauty and pollinator-friendly habitat in our important open spaces.