2025 Selection Information

Sunland-Tujunga Selection May 17, 2025 – Candidate Statements

Sherry McCoy - Region 2 Representative

I have been a resident of Tujunga since 1997. During this time, I have had the opportunity to attend STNC meetings and have participated in the Sunland-Tujunga Neighborhood Watch meetings at Starbucks (before COVID) and then on Zoom. I continued this interest and effort through a more formal role on the STNC for the past few years.  The present board members are clearly engaged in improving the community, and I enjoy coming alongside to support and serve with them. In particular, I enjoy helping with community efforts and believe outreach is especially important. There are many in the area who are not elected to the board but are interested in helping improve our community and simply need the direction and opportunity to share in the essentials of civic engagement. I would like to further the initiatives locally that empower them to volunteer in that direction and opportunity in the Sunland-Tujunga community.

Armen Mardirousi - First Vice President Community Improvement

I As a dedicated member of the Sunland-Tujunga community, I am running for VP of Community Improvement to make our neighborhood an even better place to live. With extensive leadership experience in business, community organizations, and non-profits, and holding degrees in Business Administration and an MBA, I bring a wealth of knowledge to this role. Focused on enhancing quality of life and increasing community security. I believe in collaboration and will seek community input to prioritize improvement projects that matter most to our residents. As a fast learner, self-motivated, a natural leader, and a true team player, I am committed to working tirelessly on behalf of our neighborhood. Having built businesses and raised two children who are now productive adult community members, I understand the challenges and opportunities we face. Coming to the United States as a child and building a life here, I embody the American dream. I will remain accessible to ensure everyone's voice is heard and their concerns considered. My vision is for Sunland-Tujunga to be a thriving community—a beacon of light, a modern oasis with a small-town feel but big-city opportunities.

Leny Freeman - Region 1 Representative

I'm a semi-retired network engineer. I see problems and look for solutions. The first issue is speeding on Foothill Blvd. The second issue is illegal fireworks and its impact on people, property, and especially dogs. The third is too much trash. All three problems have solutions that center on community involvement. Speeding on Foothill is a big danger to all. One very promising idea combines the use of volunteers with LAPD Foothill to improve enforcement. Almost everyone agrees that illegal fireworks cause all kinds of problems. I would support a neighborhood watch approach to identify where violations are occurring, and report to the city attorney. For a cleaner community, using bulky item pickup more frequently will go a long way. We can also have teams of volunteers helping the homeless clean up their camps.

Karen Moran  - Recording Secretary

Sunland Tujunga is a secret gem. The mountains are beautiful, but it is the people who live here who make it special. I am a 23 year resident, retired from Jet Propulsion Laboratory where I worked as an engineer for 40 years, and very involved in my church. As Recording Secretary, I hope to support the outstanding STNC volunteers that comprise the STNC Neighborhood Council; they are volunteers committed to the welfare of our community and helping to ensure that our residents have a voice in the City of Los Angeles. We have pressing issues that we need to address with the help of the City - public safety that encompasses evacuation routes, homeless issues, crime and traffic, and building more high-density apartments are some. Your voice, as citizens of STNC, is important, and if you can serve in any capacity in the STNC Neighborhood Council, you are very much needed.

Artin Mgrtichian  - Vice President Outreach

I am writing to formally express my interest in being considered as a candidate for the Sunland-Tujunga Neighborhood Council. As a dedicated resident of the area since 2017, I am deeply invested in the well-being and future of our community. With over 20 years of experience in public works and education, I have developed a strong understanding of community needs, infrastructure, and the importance of fostering collaborative relationships between residents and local government. I believe my background equips me to be an active, engaged, and caring member of the council, committed to serving with integrity and dedication. It would be an honor and a privilege to contribute my skills and experience to the council, working alongside fellow members to support initiatives that enhance our neighborhood. I would welcome the opportunity to discuss how I can best serve our community. Please let me know the next steps in the selection process and any requirements I should fulfill. Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to the possibility of serving Sunland-Tujunga to the best of my abilities.

Brenna Redpath - Region 1 Representative

I’m excited and honored to run for a seat on the Sunland-Tujunga Neighborhood Council. Having raised my family here, I’m deeply invested in our community and its future. My drive is simple: I want to be of good use. As an entrepreneur who ran a business in Los Angeles for ten years, I understand the challenges small business owners face. I’ve also dedicated much of my time advocating for children with special needs, working to improve opportunities for kids with learning differences. This advocacy has shaped my approach to problem-solving and collaboration. With administrative experience, I’ve developed the organizational skills to effectively advocate for our community. I’m committed to addressing issues like supporting community-focused economic development while preserving our small-town charm, and balancing public safety with compassionate solutions. I humbly ask for your support and your vote to help shape a thriving, inclusive community.

Lydia Grant - President

As President of the STNC, I’m excited to continue serving our community and building on the progress we’ve made. With the support of the Board and community members, I’ll be introducing new ideas and continuing to strengthen our Neighborhood Council. My experience as a Los Angeles City Commissioner on the Board of Neighborhood Commissioners (BONC)—overseeing 99 Neighborhood Councils across the city—gives me a unique perspective. Attending meetings, organizing events, and helping shape citywide policy has prepared me to bring fresh ideas and structure that can improve how we operate locally. We’ll continue to host monthly town halls with City Departments to give you direct access to the people and programs that impact our daily lives. I’m committed to mentoring new Board members and encouraging more community participation. My voting record is consistent and transparent. I strongly support our LAPD and emergency responders, and I believe in enforcing laws that protect our neighborhoods. Addressing traffic concerns, illegal dumping, crime, homelessness, and preserving the unique character of our community remain top priorities for me. I’m ready to keep working hard for Sunland-Tujunga—and I’d be honored to have your continued support.

Melissa Sagastume - Region 3 Representative

My name is Melissa Sagastume, and I’ve been proud to call Tujunga my home for nearly 10 years. As a homeowner, I care deeply about our community’s future and want to ensure our voices are heard on the Neighborhood Council. With almost 20 years of experience in Human Resources, I have dedicated my career to building strong teams, fostering collaboration, and solving complex challenges. I also hold a Bachelor’s degree in Organizational Leadership from Woodbury University and an MBA from Loyola Marymount University, which have strengthened my leadership and strategic planning skills. Beyond my professional background, I serve in the Civil Air Patrol, reinforcing my commitment to public service and emergency preparedness. My experience has prepared me to advocate for public safety, support local businesses, and promote responsible development—all essential to preserving and improving our neighborhood. I believe in open communication and practical solutions. Sunland-Tujunga has tremendous potential, and with thoughtful leadership, we can enhance local services, protect open spaces, and effectively address community concerns. I’m running because I love this community and want to give back meaningfully. If elected, I promise to listen, collaborate, and work hard to make Sunland-Tujunga an even better place to live. I’d be honored to have your support—let’s do this together!

Mark Seigel - Region 4 Representative

I look forward to improving local communications in public safety. I am familiar with how our Sunland-Tujunga Neighborhood Council (STNC) and our community's advocacy can make a difference. I live here. I work here. I am always accessible. I am a past president, two terms, of the STNC. I chaired the Standing Rules and Bylaws committee. As an active member of our local community organizations I look forward to working with the STNC board to achieve the goals to improve our community for everyone. Former board member and chair of the Spring Carnival and 4th of July Family Fireworks Festival events.

Nina Royal - Senior Representative

Sunland-Tujunga has many strengths, but there are still areas that deserve attention and thoughtful improvement. From organizing community events like National Night Out to fostering greater civic engagement, I see meaningful opportunities to make a lasting impact. That’s why I’m eager to continue serving on the Sunland-Tujunga Neighborhood Council—specifically as a representative and advocate for our senior community. Thank you for considering my continued service on the board.

Vartan Keshish - Community Interest Representative

As a 20-year resident of Sunland-Tujunga, I’m proud to call this community home and even prouder to step up and serve as your Community Interest Representative. I hold a degree in Mechanical Engineering from Portsmouth University in England and run my own successful contracting business right here in the area. For the past several years, I’ve been an active member of the STNC Land Use Committee, attending meetings and hearings on local development. That experience—combined with both my professional background and my deep roots in the neighborhood—drives my commitment to preserving what makes Sunland-Tujunga truly special. We are not Glendale—we are Sunland-Tujunga: a unique, historic, and beautiful community that deserves thoughtful leadership and real representation. I believe in transparency, independence, and integrity. I don’t take donations. I answer to no one but you, my neighbors. I’m ready to work hard to ensure this remains a great place to live, work, and raise a family. I respectfully ask for your vote—and the opportunity to continue advocating for the future of Sunland-Tujunga.

Vicky Cerpa - Region 4

Candidate Statement coming soon

Mikal J. McEnany - Region 3 Representative

I'm Mikal McEnany, and I’m running for Sunland-Tujunga Neighborhood Council because I was raised here and I’m proud of this community. I went to Apperson St. Elementary. I was a boy scout in Troop 394. I love how we are the gateway to the Angeles Forest and how our community is sown together through Foothill Blvd. I’m running for Neighborhood Council because I want to make a difference in my community and help my neighbors and friends address their concerns. I want to be in action, not inaction. Most importantly I’m running because I love this town, I love my home and I want the best for it and its people. I come from a background in the arts and entertainment industry, I am passionate about filmmaking. As an artist I care deeply about the human experience which is also why I’ve chosen to run. I’ve always been civically engaged from a young age and before I graduated High School I was on the Los Angeles Mayor’s Youth Council. If elected I will prioritize: 1. Conservation & Mindful Development: I love how connected ST is to Nature and the Foothills. 2. Youth Advocacy: I want to empower the next generation 3. Compassionate solutions to the homeless crisis: Let’s help thy neighbor and stop kicking the can down the road.4. Local Business Growth: I will advocate for better use of our land (Former Kmart which has been unused since I was 4 years old).

Tim Smith - Community Interest Representative

Candidate Statement coming soon

Cheryl Schmidt - Public Safety Representative

I would be honored to serve the Sunland-Tujunga community again as the Public Safety Representative. I am a stay-at-home mother, a former 6th grade teacher, and a current volunteer for LAPD. I serve on CPAB (Community Police Advisory Board) for Foothill Division, completed the LAPD Citizens’ Police Academy as well as Stop the Bleed, and communicate regularly with our Senior Lead Officers, LAFD, and Park Rangers. I am passionate about connecting community members with city services to get the help they need, especially when it comes to safety for themselves, their families, and their neighbors. I ask you for your vote. Thank you.

Cindy Cleghorn - Corresponding Secretary

As a local business owner, I understand the challenges our businesses face every day. I also recognize the improvements our community wants to see along Foothill Boulevard and Commerce Avenue. These areas are vital to the character and economy of our neighborhood, and I’m committed to supporting their continued revitalization. My focus remains on working directly with residents and local businesses as we move forward with updates to our Community Plan and Zoning Code. I actively encourage stakeholder participation in shaping thoughtful, balanced land use decisions grounded in our General, Community, and Specific Plans, as well as city codes and ordinances. As Corresponding Secretary, I will continue to advocate for our community’s voice to be heard, especially during these challenging times with the City’s expected tight budget. I encourage education in land use and proudly serve as a Budget Advocate to help ensure transparency and accountability in how the City allocates its resources. I also bring experience as a former two-term President of the Sunland-Tujunga Neighborhood Council (STNC). Let’s work together to preserve our history, strengthen our community, and stay informed, safe, and prepared for the future.

Ross Herman - Second Vice President - Outreach

I moved to Sunland 11 years ago from Oklahoma. I'm originally from Pittsburg, Kansas. Serving others and contributing towards the greater good is a passion of mine. I believe altruism and civic duty are cornerstones of a strong community. Working with and hearing from all residents of Sunland-Tujunga is something I look forward to very much.

Jon von Gunten - Region 3 Representative

I respectfully request your vote to again serve as your Region 3 Representative! Help me raise our voices to CD7, the City and LAPD! I work with everyone. I speak and write Spanish. In college, I worked as busboy, plumber's helper and lumberyard laborer. I tutored in south Chicago, at-risk kids in Pacoima, and adult ESL in Hollywood. My profession was writing analytical articles and websites to promote business software and Web technology. Arriving here in 1987, we helped write, then gathered signatures for, LA's Hillside Density Ordinance and Foothill Boulevard Corridor Specific Plan. Without these, Foothill would now be a string of view-killing high-rises, and our hillsides covered in high-density tracts. I've served twice as STNC's liaison to LAPD's Neighborhood Watch, and once as your Region 3 Rep. I publish Neighborhood Watch invitations, crime stats, reports and safety tips to Facebook, Nextdoor and 300+ email addresses. I've responded to thousands of resident phone calls and emails about crime and local nuisances! I promote anti-crime messaging on social media. My wife Karen and I served on LAPD's Volunteer Community Patrol doing radar traffic enforcement, gathering evidence, patrolling streets, and community events. I co-chair STNC's Safe Traffic & Transportation committee, and have volunteered at women's events, arts, Foothill Blvd. tree rescue, parades, community clean-ups, and fundraising for Rotary and Bolton Hall. Let's ALL Be Heard! Please vote for me so I can keep helping!

Dante Calvo - Region 4 Representative

My name is Dante Calvo and I'm excited to run for a seat on the Neighborhood Council and serve the community I call home—Tujunga. Growing up in the San Fernando Valley and earning my bachelor's degree from CSUN, I’ve spent my career dedicated to education and service. I'm a science teacher at a local charter school and recently completed my master’s in STEM Education. I’ve always believed in the power of community. Through my work and volunteering over the years all around Los Angeles, I’ve seen how much we can accomplish when we come together. This opportunity to serve on the Neighborhood Council is a great chance to make a positive impact and help strengthen our community. If elected, I’ll focus on improving communication between residents and the council, advocating for neighborhood enhancements, and ensuring Tujunga remains a safe, vibrant place for everyone. I’m committed to representing your voice and creating positive, lasting change for our community. Thank you for considering me as your candidate. I look forward to the opportunity to serve you.

Dillon Dorothy - Region 3 Representative

My name is Dillon Dorothy, and I’m proud to be running for a seat on the Sunland-Tujunga Neighborhood Council. My wife and I moved to Tujunga at the beginning of the pandemic and recently became homeowners here in 2024. We chose this neighborhood because of its peaceful atmosphere, natural beauty, and strong sense of community. We love living here and want to do our part to help preserve what makes it special while working to improve the areas that need attention.

I’m a native Angeleno, born and raised in Northeast LA—specifically Highland Park and Eagle Rock. I have deep Mexican roots on my mother’s side and speak Spanish fluently. I graduated from Cal State Northridge with a degree in Communication Studies and currently work remotely in digital advertising. That flexibility gives me the time and skill set to be highly engaged with neighborhood council events, outreach, and decision-making. I’m passionate about making our local government more accessible, especially to underrepresented voices. I want to ensure that all stakeholders—residents, business owners, renters, and workers—feel heard and respected. My priorities include preserving our quality of life, supporting public safety, encouraging local small business growth, and creating opportunities for connection between neighbors. Sunland-Tujunga is a rare gem in Los Angeles. I’m running to help keep it that way—and to represent you with transparency, dedication, and care.