Minutes - Charter Commission - 10/26/2022

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outside party can then be specified that they are not allowed to run for the position after the appointment expires. The Commission continued to discuss the differences between the options as well as alternate options that could be selected. A suggestion was made to use the language that someone could be appointed until a special election could be held, rather than making it an either/or scenario. It was noted that the language "within 90 days of the vacancy" had been stricken from the options in order to comply with State law but could actually stay in if desired with the knowledge that the City Charter trumps State law in relation to City elections. The Commission agreed that 90 days would be very quick for campaigning,balloting, and an election to be held and 180 days would be more appropriate. It was noted that the City should balance the cost of the special election and burden on City staff with the value provided by a special election. The Commission discussed whether to have primaries for special elections. A suggestion was made to table this item with direction for staff to bring back additional options based on the discussion tonight. It was stated that it would be helpful to have scenarios to review and input from other charter cities. Chairperson Field noted that he would plan to hold the next meeting after the first of the year. Motion by Commissioner Deemer, seconded by Commissioner Bendtsen, to table the remaining balance of Chapter 4. Motion Carried. Voting Yes: Chairperson Field, Commissioners Bendtsen, Deemer, Fuhreck, Leistico, Moore, May, and Rusert. Voting No: None. Absent: Commissioner Anderson. 5.5 Review Ordinance #22-17 Amending City Charter Prohibiting Membership on the Charter Commission of City Council Members Chairperson Field reviewed the ordinance which was adopted that prevents a member from the City Council to serve on the Charter Commission or other Boards and Commissions. He stated that the City Council has adopted this ordinance and now it is before the Commission for consideration. City Administrator Hagen noted that there was some discussion on the topic, but the vote was passed unanimously by the Council. The Commission agreed that this would make sense as there are checks and balances between the City Council and Charter Commission. Chairperson Field commented that this body acts with integrity and treats the Charter as its constitution. He believed that this change would solidify that and would not politicize it by adding a Councilmember to the Charter Commission. Commissioner Deemer commented that the intention of the Commission is to be a separate body working for the City, appointed by a Judge. Charter Commission/October 26, 2022 Page 5 of 8