Advisory board to form subcommittee to review charter duties, powers and budget role

Board members agreed to form a subcommittee to review the Library Advisory Board’s duties and powers as listed in the city charter and to compare them with state rules and other city advisory committees.

Marissa asked the board to consider reviewing the charter language because some points are out of date and because the board’s actual role (advice and consultation) differs from language that appears to grant more direct authority. Board members discussed whether the board should participate in the budgetary process, investigate funding sources, or focus on advising for policy and long‑range planning.

Several members noted the distinction between “duties” and “powers” and said the current charter wording mixes both categories. Members suggested the board could recommend clarifying language to the city council but cannot unilaterally change charter text. The board agreed to divide into subcommittees (no more than three members per subcommittee to avoid forming a quorum) to compile comparisons of other advisory boards and relevant state materials.

Tiffany and the chair volunteered to be on the first subcommittee; Marissa said she would compile examples from other boards and city documents and provide copies of state guidance and relevant materials. The board emphasized that any recommended changes to duties or powers would go to city council and, if necessary, to the city attorney for review.

Marissa offered to present budget materials to the subcommittee or to the full board upon request; the board discussed the option that a member might serve on the city budget committee during the municipal budgeting process. The subcommittee will meet and report back at a future meeting.