City Council Reshuffles Committee Assignments, Eyes Future Collaboration In Novato

NOVATO, CA — The Novato City Council deliberated over 2026’s slate of local, regional, and state commission appointments, sparking discussion on leadership roles, collaboration and representation across the city’s growing portfolio of external partnerships.

These appointments determine how Novato influences and benefits from regional investments in water, transportation, and environmental projects. The city’s participation shapes funding streams for projects from flood prevention to safe streets.Stewardship of committee assignments is a fundamental part of the city’s governance and fiscal health.

Councilmembers debated both routine assignments and the filling of several vacancies brought about by the addition of a new councilmember.

“Instead of going down [the list], I would like to say that I would like to continue serving [on] the commissions that I have been representing,” said Councilmember Pat Eklund.

However, new councilmembers were encouraged to step into more prominent roles. Councilmember Tim O’Connor volunteered for the Community Development Agency.

The North Bay Watershed Association Board — responsible for advancing water resource policy and climate resilience, issues closely linked to city finances and infrastructure spending — became a focal point for debate.

Councilmember Sandeep Karkal expressed interest in becoming the regular member given his professional background.

“In the interest of balancing it out, I’m supportive of councilmember Karkal being the primary for this one,” O’Connor said after a lengthy debate.

The council appointed Mayor Pro Tem Kevin Jacobs to the Transportation Authority of Marin Board, a role critical for transportation grant funding and project oversight, ensuring Novato maintains a voice in county-level planning.