Peoria planning commission elects Josephine Waitman Powell chair; Via Senior vice chair, Doug Myers secretary

The Peoria Planning and Zoning Commission elected new officers during its Feb. 20 meeting under the commission’s annual officer-selection procedure and two-year term limits.

Commissioners voted unanimously (5–0) to install Josephine Waitman Powell as chair, Via Senior as vice chair and Doug Myers as secretary for the coming term.

Staff member Ms. Deaver explained the annual process and the two-year eligibility rule before nominations. “Those who are serving are eligible to serve in the same position for 2 years,” Ms. Deaver said while leading the nominations process.

Commissioner Feider nominated Josephine Waitman Powell for chair; the nomination received a second and passed. Powell told commissioners, “It’s an honor to serve our city and — honored to serve around — so many other bright people that care about our city.”

Via Senior was nominated and confirmed as vice chair, and the commission later nominated and confirmed Doug Myers as secretary. Commissioners noted changes were prompted in part by term limits and scheduling; staff said a newly appointed commissioner is expected to attend the April meeting.

All three officer elections were decided by voice vote with no recorded dissents; each motion passed 5–0. The secretary noted that the secretary position remains a carryover role the commission plans to revisit at a future date.

The commission adjourned following staff reports and reminders about upcoming meeting dates; the March 20 meeting was canceled to coincide with local spring break and the commission reconvenes on April 3, when the new chair is expected to preside.