Commission approves LDC text amendment to add alternate Redevelopment Commission member with recusal option
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Summary
The commission recommended approval of a text amendment to the Land Development Code to add one mayor‑appointed alternate to the Redevelopment Commission and approved an amendment allowing the alternate to serve for recusal on individual agenda items; the measure passed on a 4‑0 vote.
Planning staff presented an LDC text amendment that would add one alternate member to the Redevelopment Commission. The alternate would be appointed by the mayor to one‑year terms and would serve in place of a regular member when that member is absent.
Staff noted the draft language, as written, provides for the alternate to step in for absences only and does not expressly allow an alternate to sit when a commissioner recuses themself from a particular item. Commissioners discussed whether the alternate should be permitted to serve for individual recusals (single agenda items) as well as absences.
Legal staff and commissioners clarified state statute establishes a five‑member Redevelopment Commission but does not explicitly permit or prohibit alternates; the town can codify alternate membership in its local code. Commissioners argued the Commission’s infrequent meeting schedule and the recurring need for recusals in redevelopment matters made a case for permitting the alternate to serve by line item to preserve quorum and institutional knowledge.
A commissioner moved to approve the amendment as recommended by staff with the inclusion of recusal as one occasion when the alternate may serve; another commissioner seconded. The commission then voted on the amendment and the motion passed 4‑0.
Ending: Staff will forward the commission’s recommendation on Z25‑1 to the Planning Commission (per the standard process) and will incorporate the commission’s direction on allowing the alternate to serve during individual recusals.
