Fargo Cass Public Health staff told the board there are three open board-member positions and that the application window closes Jan. 31.

Jen Fall Fargo said staff had received 11 applications at the time of the meeting and reviewed the board bylaws adopted in 2023 governing qualifications and appointment process. She said the commission makes appointments and that City of Fargo leadership and department administration typically participate in initial vetting; Mayor Mahoney and Commissioner involvement were discussed as part of the process. Fall Fargo also noted a bylaw requirement intended to avoid an all-male or all-female membership composition.

Board members noted some current members were surprised their terms had expired Dec. 31; staff said a prior website listing had contained inconsistent dates and that notices were sent when staff learned of the term expirations. Board members encouraged outreach to identify candidates who bring varied skills, including environmental health, emergency preparedness and lived-experience perspectives.

Ending
Staff will continue to accept applications through Jan. 31, compile candidate materials and work with the liaison and commission to present recommended appointees.