Aurora council reappoints two and appoints one to Civil Service Commission after brief debate over objectivity

The Aurora City Council on Feb. 24 took three personnel actions regarding the Civil Service Commission: it reappointed Desmond McNeil and Barbara Cleland and appointed Judy Lutkin to the commission.

Councilwoman Coombs moved to reappoint Desmond McNeil; the motion was seconded and passed. During discussion Councilmember Jurinski and others praised McNeil’s service and leadership. The transcript records Mayor Kaufman voting yes when the motion was called.

Council Member Gentry moved to appoint Judy Lutkin; Council Member Hancock seconded the motion. During debate, Council Member Hancock said, "I think she could be totally objective and serve her role appropriately," citing Lutkin’s experience and understanding of police and public-safety roles. Council Member Locust said he remained concerned, noting, "My concern is the somewhat polarizing approach that the Aurora Police Association has sometimes taken," and said that history raised questions about objectivity. The council voted to appoint Lutkin; the transcript records the motion passing with eight yes votes and two no votes from Mayor Kaufman and Council Member Coombs.

Council Member Gardner moved to reappoint Barbara Cleland; the motion was seconded and passed. The motion to reappoint Cleland passed with the mayor recorded as voting yes.

Why it matters: The Civil Service Commission hears disciplinary and personnel matters affecting city employees in covered classifications; appointments shape who will hear and rule on such matters going forward.

Next steps: The newly appointed and reappointed commissioners will serve according to the commission’s terms and any applicable city rules. No appeals or further steps were recorded in the meeting minutes included in the transcript.