City Says Goodbye to Longtime Commissioner

Purple and green icing spelled out "Thank you Marta" on a cream-colored cake, as commissioners at the June 21 meeting of the Parks, Recreation, Marina and Cultural Commission honored a longtime colleague. Commissioner Marta Van Loan particpated in her last meeting before she moves on.

"It's time," Van Loan said simply of her reason for leaving. Van Loan has been a city commissioner for nine years, and has been with the PRMCC since its inception in 2008. Her work as a PRMCC commissioner has included pushing for Measure H and working for renovation of the library.

On Tuesday night, the real icing on the cake for Van Loan was the warm thank you messages from fellow commissioners. 

"You have added so much knowledge and experience," said Commissioner Karen Bell-Patten. "Thank you so much for all of your years and commitment to Martinez."

"I hope you don't turn on, tune in and drop out because we need you," said Commissioner Don Pallotta. 

Van Loan has been a member of Friends of the Martinez Library for 15 years, advocating for renovation and expanded resources. Now that a new library is being built, Van Loan said, she feels that her work is done.

"New blood is needed," said Van Loan, who added that she has enjoyed working with such industrious and active commission colleagues.