Ypsilanti advisory commission debates removing term limits from boards and commissions; ordinance edits to be drafted

Members of the Ypsilanti Police Advisory Commission discussed City Council’s ongoing review of ordinances governing boards and commissions, specifically a proposal to remove term limits that currently limit most commission members to two three‑year terms (six years).

Commissioners said the review began when council moved to remove term limits from the Ethics Board and then suggested reviewing term limits across other commissions. Participants noted the practical challenge the city faces in recruiting volunteers; the Ethics Board in particular has had long-running vacancy issues and has not been fully staffed for several years.

Speakers weighed trade-offs. Those supporting removal argued that, given difficulty recruiting members, removing or relaxing term limits would allow experienced volunteers to continue serving. Others said term limits help refresh membership and ensure opportunities for new volunteers. Several commissioners suggested alternative adjustments such as lengthening terms or allowing more renewal cycles rather than eliminating limits entirely.

Procedural next steps were set: commissioners will draft and submit suggested ordinance edits in writing to commission staff no later than the Thursday before the commission’s next meeting so the clerk can compile proposals into the packet. The clerk reminded members they may use the commission email to submit individual suggestions but must avoid serial group discussions that would violate open-meeting rules; staff said the commission may formally discuss and vote on compiled suggestions at a future meeting.

No ordinance changes were adopted at the meeting. The item will return to the commission for further discussion after members submit proposed language and the clerk compiles the suggestions into a draft for group consideration.