Historic Landmark Commission elects Forrest Ehrkele as chair; Bob McNary named vice chair

The Historic Landmark Commission reorganized its officers during the Aug. 27 meeting after Chair Bob McNary said he planned to step down at the mayor’s request. Commissioners nominated Forrest Ehrkele to serve as chair and nominated Bob McNary to serve as vice chair; the nomination motion was seconded and approved by voice vote.

The change followed a discussion about how to fill positions if the current chair resigned midterm. Josh, the city staff presenter, explained the commission could nominate either the vice chair to advance or nominate other members and then fill the vice-chair vacancy.

Commissioner Eric Gleason moved to nominate Forrest as chair and Bob as vice chair; Commissioner Victor Johnson seconded the motion. Chair McNary asked for a vote by raised hands and then called the outcome approved after members voiced “Aye.” The meeting proceeded with the new officers in place.

Context: McNary said he had served “a long time” and offered to remain available but felt it was time to move on; the personnel change was described as coming at the request of Mayor Mays, according to staff’s account. The commission did not record a roll-call tally of the vote in the meeting minutes; the vote was conducted by voice/hand. The body did not take other formal personnel actions at the meeting.

Ending: Commissioners thanked outgoing and continuing members. The commission continued on to other agenda items under the new leadership.