The City of Goleta is excited to introduce our two newest Commission members to the Parks and Recreation Commission and Public Tree Advisory Commission. Both are LEAD Goleta Community Academy graduates!

Thank you to everyone who applied and congratulations to those selected! Here is a little background on each of them and what drew them to get involved.

Leigh Anne Riedman was appointed to the Parks and Recreation Commission with a term ending February 1, 2029. Leigh Anne is an avid gardener with a long history of academic research in paleontology, geology, and biology. She has raised four children in Goleta and values the importance of green spaces for families in Goleta.

Leigh Anne brings more than two decades of experience in academic research at higher education institutions and is currently a Step III Assistant Researcher for the Earth Research Institute at the University of California Santa Barbara. She has a BS in Geology and a Minor in Mathematics from Louisiana Tech University, a MS in Geology with an emphasis in Paleontology from the University of California Los Angeles, and a PhD in Geological Sciences with an emphasis in Paleontology from the University of California Santa Barbara.

Leigh Anne is excited to bring her knowledge and academic research experience to serve the Parks and Recreation Commission to help serve and maintain Goleta’s natural beauty and robust Parks and Recreation initiatives.

Hugh Michaels was appointed to the Public Tree Advisory Commission with a term ending February 1, 2029. Hugh is a lifelong gardener and lover of trees who has lived in Goleta since 2008.

Hugh has been an actively involved community volunteer in environmental, peace, and animal shelter positions. He has been a Category Owner for the Planned Parenthood Book Sale for ten years and serves on the board of a local Buddhist group. A certified Master Gardener by the University of Arizona in 2007, Hugh has helped others create and cultivate their gardens and trees starting with his college-era business, No Job Too Nasty.

Hugh brings a diverse background of volunteer service, gardening, landscaping, and fundraising and has a BA in International Studies from Antioch College, Yellow Springs, Ohio. Hugh is focused on engaging with the community as he helps manage Goleta’s urban forest.

To learn more about the City’s Boards and Commissions, and to see available vacancies, please visit www.CityofGoleta.org/BoardsCommissions.