Tree board seeks members; boarders ask for more transparency in appointment process

Board members reviewed efforts to recruit volunteers for open tree-board seats. Larry Goldman reported that two community referrals produced one submitted application; the applicant will meet with the mayor and be interviewed by council before appointment. Board members requested staff consider sharing a redacted application copy earlier in the process so the board can provide input before a mayoral appointment goes to council.

Members discussed outreach improvements: updating a one-page flyer with a QR code that links to the city application page, creating a short interest sheet to collect contact information at events, and clarifying that nonresidents with relevant expertise are eligible to serve as provided by municipal code. The board noted there are two alternate positions available in addition to voting members and that turnover among professional members is likely as several long-serving members plan to step down.

Board members agreed to invite applicants to attend a meeting or watch a recording and to follow up with prospective candidates to encourage attendance prior to formal interviews. The board also discussed keeping an updated tally of applicants in the clerk’s office and asked staff to request a basic status summary (without personal details) from the city clerk so the board can better track application processing.

Ending: Staff will refresh recruitment materials and the board will follow up on the current applicant and the second prospect; prospective members may be invited to the December meeting for orientation and to help the council evaluation process.