Minutes - Charter Commission - 07/19/2023

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that would be as close as they could get to a representation of the population that would vote in an election. Chairperson Field stated that he does not like the idea of a maverick, in that one person could veto the remainder of the Council. Commissioner Fuhreck commented that the Commission is not aware of a situation that has occurred when no one has run in a special election, and therefore that is just as an unlikely situation as the Council reaching a unanimous vote for appointment. Commissioner Moore commented that she would support the use of the word "may" versus "shall" and the other changes with the exception of a unanimous vote requirement, and replacing that with maj ority. Commissioner Fuhreck stated that he does find it unlikely that no one would run in a special election, but would support including that language, replacing the unanimous vote requirement with majority and leaving the clause in which would have the mayor break a tie vote. Chairperson Field stated that he would support the 75 percent threshold or unanimous language rather than the majority because it is an elected seat. Commissioner Deemer commented that he does not see a problem with the unanimous language although he does not believe that would happen. He commented that perhaps the Council would find a way to find a candidate they all like. Motion by Commissioner Deemer, seconded by Chairperson Field, to accept the proposed language for Sections 4.5.4 and 4.5.6 as presented from the City Council. Further discussion: Commissioner Leistico stated that she would not support unanimous as there are so many positions in the world that do not require that level of support. She stated that is an incredibly high bar for a short-term vacancy. Commissioner Fuhreck commented that it would also set Ramsey apart from the State law and other cities. He commented that he does not see the need or justification behind Ramsey being different than everyone else. Chairperson Field stated that his position would be to choose what is better, an empty seat for less than a year or to have a seat appointed by a potentially fractured Council. Commissioner Leistico commented that is for the Council to figure out, as the appointed person would still be working with all members of the Council. She commented that leaving citizens without representation because a Council cannot reach agreement is not desired. Commissioner Fuhreck stated that it comes down to whether people are more comfortable with a vacancy or appointment. Charter Commission/ July 19, 2023 Page 5 of 7