THOUSAND OAKS : Commissioner Quits Post Due to Injury

Thousand Oaks Planning Commissioner Denise Filz said Thursday she is stepping down because she needs time to recover from a head injury.

“It was a truly wonderful experience,” Filz said of her short time on the commission. “But I think it’s in the best interest of the commission and the city for me to step aside.”

City Councilwoman Jaime Zukowski appointed Filz to the commission in January. Filz said she has been unable to keep up with her duties because of a severe concussion she suffered in an accident at her home in February.

Although she attended a commission meeting last week for the first time in two months, Filz said she still does not feel well enough to resume her commission responsibilities.

“I feel fine, but it’s a long process of healing,” said Filz, who declined to give details about her injury.

Zukowski said she regrets Filz’s decision but understands her reasons.

The city is accepting applications for the vacancy through May 10. Applicants must be at least 18 years old and a resident of the city.

Zukowski is expected to bring her nominee for the position before the council May 18. The nominee, who would serve the balance of Filz’s four-year term, must be approved by a majority of the council.