City Council alters appointment process for boards and commissions led by Mayor Grafstein

Madison Heights City Council has taken a significant step towards enhancing local governance by approving a resolution to amend the membership appointment process for several city boards and commissions. During the regular council meeting on July 14, 2025, the council voted to transition the appointment authority from the mayor to the council as a whole for six key boards, including the Crime Commission, Parks and Recreation Advisory Board, and the Elected Officials Compensation Commission.

Councilman Flenming, supported by Mayor Grafstein, initiated the proposal to streamline the appointment process, arguing that it would foster greater collaboration and efficiency. Currently, the mayor appoints members to these boards with the council's consent, a practice that has raised questions about its necessity, especially for boards where the mayor does not serve. The council aims to unify the appointment process, making it consistent across all boards and commissions.

The resolution passed with a vote of 6-1, reflecting a strong consensus among council members on the need for this change. The council emphasized that this shift would not only simplify the process but also enhance accountability and representation within the community.

In addition to the Crime Commission, the council also introduced amendments for the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board and the Compensation Commission, which will undergo further readings in upcoming meetings. The council discussed the implications of these changes, particularly regarding the Compensation Commission, which sets the salaries for council members and the mayor. The absence of a council member on this commission was noted as a potential conflict of interest, prompting discussions about the need for staff recommendations in future appointments.

The council's decision marks a pivotal moment in local governance, aiming to empower elected officials and improve the functioning of city boards. As the council prepares for the second readings of the proposed amendments, residents can anticipate a more collaborative and transparent approach to city governance moving forward.