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Commissioners debate EDI council appointments; decision tabled until full board present
Summary
A recommendation to appoint nine candidates to the county Leaders for Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) council prompted extended debate over the council’s mission and approach; after disagreement the board tabled the appointment action until all four commissioners are present.
County staff presented a slate of nine recommended appointments to the Leaders for Equity, Diversity and Inclusion council and asked the Board to confirm the candidates. The EDI council (also referred to historically as EDI/DEI) has space for 19 members and staff reported 22 applications were received in the last recruitment; interviews were held with 12 applicants and nine were recommended for appointment.
Commissioner Schroeder moved to appoint April Flint Gerner, Brandy Johnson, Desiree Thomas, Melissa Roy Hart, Montgomery Star, Sandy B. Allman, Sirius Bonner, Laurie Bender and Mike Foley to terms ending in 2027. Commissioner West declined to second the motion. West expressed opposition to the council’s current approach and said in his view the council had been “highly divisive and political,” and stated a preference for focusing on socioeconomic barriers and “classic liberal American values.” Commissioner Schroeder and other commissioners described the council as an opportunity to pursue practical outcomes—housing, education, food security—that expand access to prosperity.
County Administrator Gary Schmidt advised there were not enough votes with three commissioners present and suggested tabling. Chair Roberts and staff acknowledged the appointment is advisory and can be guided by the board. The board agreed to table action until Commissioner Savas returns so that the full four‑member board can participate in the appointment decision.
No appointments were approved at this meeting; staff will return with the item when all commissioners are seated.
