From helping residents with permitting questions to supporting projects across city departments, Jack Tunney gained firsthand experience in local government through his internship with the city of Vista. The internship was supported by a $5,000 award from theCalifornia City Management Foundation’s (CCMF) Judy L. Kelsey Memorial Fund.
The fund supports summer internships in California local government, providing opportunities for participants to explore public service careers through practical experience. Vista was one of two cities selected to receive an award in 2026.
Working in the Community Development Department’s Planning Division, Tunney maintained a schedule of 24 hours per week across three workdays. He assisted customers at the public counter with planning and permitting questions, helped process and issue permits and supported commercial contractors navigating application requirements.
His assignments included reviewing sign permit applications for new businesses, analyzing temporary use permit requests and helping prepare for public review meetings. He also collaborated with staff to identify needed updates to city webpages. These responsibilities supported the division’s daily operations while giving Tunney practical experience in development review and zoning administration.
Beyond the Planning Division, Tunney contributed to projects in the City Manager’s Office, Economic Development and Human Resources. He assisted with administrative tasks, supported the city’s Shop Local program and worked on a regional compensation project. These assignments broadened his understanding of municipal operations and showed how departments work together to serve the community.
“The city of Vista appreciates CCMF’s investment in developing future local government professionals and supporting opportunities for hands-on learning in public service,” the city stated in its end-of-internship summary report.
Throughout the internship, Tunney strengthened his research, analytical, communication and organizational skills. Working directly with residents, business owners and contractors gave him experience explaining municipal requirements, while reviewing applications and preparing for public meetings introduced him to the procedures that guide local development decisions.
Vista’s internship demonstrates how hands-on learning can introduce emerging professionals to the range of careers available in local government while providing valuable support for city services and community programs.
For more information about the fund, visit the Judy L. Kelsey Memorial Fund webpage.
