Commerce City council votes to formalize 30‑day agenda review process after debate

The Commerce City Council voted 6 to 3 to direct the city attorney to draft a resolution revising Council Policy 2 to require an early overview of upcoming agendas in a study session 30 days before regular meetings and to remove existing language stating mayor and council 'may provide input' on agenda items.

Council member Marie Kim introduced the motion saying the change would create a single, predictable opportunity for all nine council members to review and provide input on agendas before they are finalized. "It gives all of us the opportunity to look at that schedule," Kim said, describing the proposal as a transparency and efficiency step.

Opponents warned the motion would disrupt a practice that had produced more efficient meetings after the council’s earlier retreat. Council member Casimer Douglas said he would not support removing mayoral and mayor‑pro‑tem input, calling the existing workflow effective: "The policies has been working for a very long time," he said.

City Attorney Zacariah (Zaki) Almiron advised that the council could, by policy revision, require study‑session review but reminded members that the city manager retains responsibility for setting agendas under the charter; any operational changes should respect the manager’s role.

Why it matters: The change shifts how and when council input on agendas is captured. Council members who supported the change argued it reduces surprise items and conflicting guidance; opponents said the existing, smaller working group produced shorter, more efficient meetings.

Council directions and next steps: The motion passed; staff were directed to draft a formal resolution updating Council Policy 2. The council did not adopt the policy text tonight; the city attorney will prepare proposed language for a future meeting.