City Council Minutes 2021 12 07 - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Browse Search

City Council Meeting Minutes December 7, 2021 Page 7 of 12 Councilmember Dickinson noted that one of the items they weighed was length of service on boards and whether that is beneficial and detrimental. He reiterated that it's imperative to try to get new members to get new perspectives and be inclusive. It is also important to respect those that have served a long time and have great knowledge. Mayor Stolzmann reminded everyone that no appointments will be done until after the interviews, the decisions tonight are who to interview. She requested that all of the reapplying Planning Commission members be added to the interview list and that Tamar Krantz be interviewed for Planning Commission. Councilmember Most stated her commitment to EDI and her hesitancy to reappoint those that have been sitting on a board or commission for more than 10 years. She stated her support for term limits. Councilmember Brown expressed his support for interviewing everyone who may be appointed to Planning Commission. He also believes it is important to use infuse new members on the boards to reflect the changing community. Mayor Pro Tern Maloney remarked that there are members of the EDI Task Force that are recommended for appointments on the list. He stated that term limits have been brought up previously and can be discussed again, but that discussion should take place separately from these appointments. Councilmember Fahey noted that all the applicants are qualified and interested; the narrowing down process was very efficient and well done. Councilmember Brown left the meeting at 8:18 pm Councilmember Dickinson added that there is a good split in gender over all, but it is problematic that the Planning Commission is all male and the Library Board is all female. There isn't racial information on applicants, but they did strive to be sensitive and thoughtful. He noted that while there is some diversity, some boards are lopsided in gender and some that are very white. He believes they made some strides but will have to continue to work on diversity on the boards. Public Comments Sherry Sommer, 910 S Palisade Court, suggested long term members be moved to advisory positions instead of being reappointed to the board. She expressed her concern that applying for some board, especially Planning Commission, is intimidating for women. Brian Topping, 1550 White Violet Way, feels boards need to be a hybrid of knowledge and new voices.