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Commission debates geographic vs. at-large seats in proposed amendment to ordinance 277
Summary
Commissioners discussed a request to amend Liberty Lake Ordinance 277 (sections 2(b)(3) and 2(c)) that governs Community Engagement Commission membership, weighing geographic-seat requirements against flexibility to fill vacancies and improve recruitment.
On May 21 the Community Engagement Commission discussed a draft amendment to Ordinance 277, sections 2(b)(3) and 2(c), that would change how seats are allocated between geographically tied positions and at-large members.
Commissioners said the commission has operated below the nine-member complement for more than two years and prioritized filling vacancies. Several members supported keeping geographic representation where possible to ensure neighborhoods have direct liaisons, but others argued flexibility is necessary when seats remain vacant for extended periods.
Participants proposed options without taking formal action: allow appointment of at-large members while vacancies remain, or include a timed "escape" clause so that if a geographically designated seat remains vacant for a specified period (for example, 60'90 days) it could be filled at-large. Commissioners suggested targeted outreach to neighborhood groups, homeowners associations and community organizations to recruit candidates for specific geographic seats.
No ordinance change or formal motion was adopted during the meeting; commissioners agreed to place the membership discussion on a future agenda and to continue recruitment efforts ahead of any code amendment.
Ending: The commission asked staff to return with recruitment updates and said the issue should remain on a future meeting agenda so the group can weigh options and, if desired, draft a proposed ordinance amendment for council consideration.
