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COMMISSION BUSINESS Case #1: Commission Qualifications Linda Waite Smith, Administrative Services Manager, provided background to the Commission on how the discussion of the process and the qualifications for Commission members occurred. She stated that this was in response to the recent confusion concerning the appointment and reappointment of Commission members. Included with the agenda packet is a copy of the preliminary report from the surveys that were returned in February from all of the Commission members. Ms. Waite Smith also stated that her attendance at tonight's meeting is to allow for additional input from the EDC members and that she has visited with all of the Commissions prior to forwarding the report to the City Council. Vice-Chairperson Kent stated that from the draft report, it appears that most Commission members are in agreement that the Commissions should retain the ability to interview the applicants and make recommendations to the City Council concerning the appointments. Ms. Waite Smith agreed that from the information provided, it appears that many of the Commission members do support the current system. However, there have been some concerns as to the interviewing techniques and the discussions as to who is recommended for any openings on the Commissions. Commissioner Nelson suggested that the interviewing process has been very helpful to her in deciding if a prospective candidate fits the personality of the Commission. This fit may, at times, be more important than just the education and past experiences of a candidate. Commissioner Nelson also felt that having the staff involved, such as Ms. Waite Smith, would not be opposed by the EDC and should not be opposed by any of the other Commissions. Vice-Chairperson Kent suggested that to provide for better communication between the Commissions and City Council that quarterly or semi-annual meetings may be advisable. This will allow for the Commission to have a strong sense of the direction that the City Council is looking for from the Commission. Ms. Waite Smith also asked if the Commission felt that the current way of advertising vacancies on the Commissions is adequate. She asked what additional steps should be taken to allow for a greater response to the vacancies. Commissioner Stafki suggested that the current ways of advertising appear to be sufficient, but that the City may want to include a list of the types of issues a Commission is working on and a description of the Commission may be added to the advertisements. Commissioner Nelson agreed and also suggested that the Commission schedule regular meetings with the City Council to allow for a freer flow of information between the two groups. Economic Development Commission/June 6, 1996 Page 2 of 5