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Santa Clara Valley Open Space Authority Announces Board Transitions, Call for Applications

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San José, Calif. (May 9, 2025) – The Santa Clara Valley Open Space Authority (Authority) today announced changes to its seven-member Board of Directors, with updates in District 2 (D2) and District 6 (D6).

At a public meeting on April 24, the Board unanimously voted to appoint former San José City Councilmember Margie Matthews to replace the late David “Mike” Flaugher to represent D2 until Dec. 4, 2026, the remainder of Flaugher’s term. The Authority was notified on February 23 of Flaugher’s passing.

Director Matthews is no stranger to the Authority, having served on the agency’s interim Board of Directors at its inception. Over the years, she worked closely with Flaugher on open space issues, sharing his strong commitment to preserving open spaces and fostering a healthy environment for all Santa Clara Valley residents. 

“I’m happy to serve in this seat to provide continuity in the coming months,” said Matthews. “The preservation of open space is an important element for quality of life in Santa Clara Valley. I admire the accomplishments of the Authority but know we must keep pushing to maintain and acquire new protected areas, as well as forge new partnerships and secure future funding so the agency can continue its mission.”

On May 5, Mike Potter notified the board he was stepping down from his District 6 seat after 19 years of service.

"It has been a great honor and responsibility to represent the residents of District 6 and to serve alongside many dedicated board members and Authority staff for more than 19 years," said Potter. "I am incredibly proud of the progress we have made—from securing voter approval of funding measures to protecting local agriculture in Coyote Valley and expanding access to open space across the region."

The Board of Directors has posted the official notice of vacancy for District 6 on the Authority’s website. The Authority’s Enabling Act states that any vacancy shall be filled pursuant to Government Code section 1780. Public Resources Code Section 35123(c). Section 1780 allows the Authority’s Board to either fill the vacancy by appointment or call an election. 

The Board will consider an appointment to fill the seat at its public meeting on Thursday, May 22, 2025. Interested residents of District 6 are invited to submit an application by 5 p.m. on May 15. Details on eligibility and application process are available at openspaceauthority.org/board-directors.

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