City of Novato Special Meeting – December 3, 2025

The City of Novato held a special meeting to fill a vacancy on the city council for District 5 following the unexpected passing of Councilmember Mark Milberg. After interviewing four qualified candidates, the council appointed Sandeep Karka by a 4-0 vote.

Call to Order and Agenda Approval

• The meeting opened with the Pledge of Allegiance and roll call, with all four council members present.
• Councilmember Eklund moved to approve the final agenda, seconded by Councilmember Jacobs; the motion passed 4-0. The council agreed to delay regular reports but allowed a brief announcement.

Reports and Announcements

• Councilmember O'Connor announced a public meeting for Plan Bay Area 2050+ on December 4, 2025, at the Best Western in Novato, encouraging community attendance to discuss housing and transportation growth.
• No other reports were given.

General Public Comment

• No members of the public spoke on non-agenda items.

Discussion: District 5 Vacancy Appointment

• City Clerk Laura McDowell reported that the vacancy occurred on October 13, 2025, and the council had 60 days to fill the seat. The council opted for appointment rather than a special election. The application period yielded four eligible candidates: Sean Gentry, Sandeep Karka, Josh Smith, and Bradley Wright.
• Council members discussed the potential advantage an appointee might have if they later run for election, but most agreed that asking for a commitment not to run was inappropriate and that the appointee’s performance would be evaluated by voters.
• Each candidate was interviewed with eight standardized questions covering their background, vision for economic development, housing affordability, community engagement, time commitment, and resource allocation.
  • Sean Gentry: Attorney with experience in private sector and civic education. Emphasized affordable housing, transit-oriented development, and listening to diverse voices including underrepresented groups.
  • Sandeep Karka: General Manager/Chief Engineer of the Novato Sanitary District with over 20 years in Novato public service. Highlighted his deep community knowledge, fiscal responsibility, and commitment to seeking grants for infrastructure.
  • Josh Smith: Attorney specializing in complex financial transactions and public-private partnerships. Stressed sustainable budgeting, civic engagement, and long-term planning for climate resilience.
  • Bradley Wright: Retiree with experience on the city’s Economic Development Advisory Committee (EDAC). Focused on reducing commercial vacancy rates and streamlining housing development.
• During deliberation, Mayor O'Connor and Councilmembers Jacobs and Pertem Farat expressed strong support for Sandeep Karka, citing his extensive local public sector experience, community ties, and ability to contribute immediately. Councilmember Eklund noted he was impressed by Sean Gentry and Bradley Wright but would support the majority for unity.

Public Comments & Testimony

• Susan Bernick (former councilmember): Spoke in favor of Sandeep Karka, citing his thoughtfulness and readiness for the role based on her prior work with him.

Key Outcomes

• Motion by Mayor O'Connor to appoint Sandeep Karka to the District 5 council seat, seconded by Councilmember Jacobs.
• Vote: 4-0 in favor (Councilmembers Eklund, Jacobs, Pertem Farat, and O'Connor all voting aye).
• The next regular council meeting was scheduled for December 9, 2025.
• The meeting was adjourned.