Following the early resignation of Michael Cook, the city council moved to appoint resident Joe Shiuan to the Parks and Recreation Commission at the meeting held on September 16.
While the staff was prepared to review the eight resumes they had on file from the former application period, Shiuan came to the meeting and stood up to describe his qualifications and interest in the position in addition to his application.
“I was impressed with his presentation and I thought, this sounds like somebody who would do a good job,” said Councilman Bob Harbicht, who nominated him. “I think the fact that he appeared there turned the whole thing around.”
Shiuan is a project manager for the County of Los Angeles and licensed real estate salesperson who has resided in Arcadia for two years. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Economics and a Masters of Business Administration both from the University of California, Irvine and is a certified Project Management Professional.
Shiuan has also served as Treasurer and Secretary of the San Marino Commons Homeowner’s Association, and as Church Council secretary for the Mandarin Baptist Church of Los Angeles.
The new commissioner grew up participating in many city sponsored recreation and sports program as a youth and said he benefited greatly from them. He continues playing softball today for the Monterey Park and Alhambra leagues.
“Being in civil service, I have working knowledge of government and municipal operations,” Shiuan said in his application. “I have the experience and desire to interact and serve the public.”
Cook submitted his letter of resignation on August 3, with two years left on his term due to his relocation out of the area. The laws for the city mandate that commissioners be Arcadia residents.
Shiuan will fulfill Cook’s term, which expires on June 30, 2011. The new commissioner is also eligible to be reappointed and serve two additional full terms.
By Sameea Kamal