Bluff Planning and Zoning Commission recommends Gary Hawes to fill vacancy, 3-1

BLUFF, Feb. 13, 2025 — The Town of Bluff Planning and Zoning Commission voted 3-1 Thursday to recommend Gary Hawes to the mayor and Town Council to fill an open commission seat.

The commission, meeting virtually, debated two previously interviewed candidates, Gary Hawes and Anne Brown, before casting the recommendation. Amanda Podmore, chair of the Planning and Zoning Commission, said, "I think the best match to our needs at this time is Gary Hawes," and added she would personally recommend him.

The commission discussed strengths of both candidates. Leah Collins, commissioner, and others cited Anne Brown's organizational and project-management experience and her background in building and community engagement. Brian Whitney, commissioner, and Marsha Hittenfeld, commissioner, noted Gary Hawes' enforcement experience as a potential asset for the commission’s current priorities.

Leah Collins moved to recommend Gary Hawes to the Town Council for the Planning and Zoning Commission opening; Marsha Hittenfeld seconded the motion for discussion. The motion passed on a voice vote, recorded as three ayes and one nay. The commission agreed the recommendation will be sent in writing to the mayor; the Town Council has final authority to appoint the new commissioner.

Commissioners also discussed the idea of expanding the commission’s membership and agreed to include that topic in a later bylaws discussion during the work session. The chair noted the commission needs an odd number of members to avoid split votes.

Under "other" business, the commission discussed local planning practice and public-facing language. Amanda Podmore, chair, urged commissioners to avoid using individual residents or business names as examples in policy drafts, saying the commission could "best protect ourselves from the sort of backlash" seen elsewhere and specifically referencing recent public pressure affecting San Juan County planning staff. Commissioners generally supported keeping examples anonymous except when addressing an active application or enforcement matter.

Anne Brown, one of the applicants, spoke after the vote and said she remained willing to assist the commission informally: "It's not the end of the road for me with you all," she said.

The special meeting concluded with a motion to close and open the planned work session. The commission paused the recording and moved into the work session portion of its meeting.

Votes at a glance - Recommendation to Town Council to appoint Gary Hawes to the Planning and Zoning Commission: Motion carried, 3 ayes, 1 nay. Mover: Leah Collins. Seconder: Marsha Hittenfeld. Names of individual aye/nay votes were not specified in the meeting record.

Next steps The commission chair will send a written recommendation to the mayor. The Town Council will review and decide whether to appoint the recommended candidate.