On July 11, 2023, Sahil Sampangi joined the city of Moorpark to develop a Sustainability Plan that addresses the city’s priorities on recycling, solid waste management and renewable energy. His position was made possible with support from CCMF’s Judy L. Kelsey Memorial Fund.
The Judy L. Kelsey Memorial Fund offers two $5,000 grants to local governments each year to fund internships. Half the funding for this program comes from the estate of Judy Lyn Kelsey, a longtime California city manager with a passion for uplifting others. The other half of the funding is contributed by CCMF. The city of Moorpark was selected as a recipient of a 2023 award.
“The city of Moorpark is grateful to be awarded the CCMF-funded internship program under the Judy L. Kelsey Memorial Fund,” said Moorpark Assistant City Manager PJ Gagajena. “With limited funds and resources in the city’s budget, having the ability to attract and pay for a summer intern helped the city complete much-needed projects that otherwise would not have been performed.”
During his internship, Sahil completed a Sustainability Plan that covered organic waste recycling methods, solar panel shade structures and extensive research on offering a drone show in lieu of a fireworks display. Sahil also identified alternative structures and activities for the Moorpark Teen Council, developed and taught a computer literacy class at the Moorpark Active Adult Center and attended milestone city events.
The internship also enabled Sahil to attend the grand opening for a new restaurant in the city, receive tours of many city facilities (including the Moorpark Public Works Yard, Police Services Station and Fire Station 42), meet Ventura County Board of Supervisors and former Moorpark Mayor Janice Parvin and more. On his last day of the job, Sahil shared his work on the Sustainability Plan, along with additional research, with the City Manager’s Office staff.
“It was a great opportunity to mentor a talented and service-driven young person in the community who will surely make a great impact in the world and is a model for the next generation of local government leaders,” Gagajena said.
Applications for the 2024 Judy Kelsey Memorial Fund will open to California cities next spring. Visit the Judy L. Kelsey Memorial Fund webpage for more information.