The committee reviewed proposed changes to an item that would amend the FY2025 budget to create an Office of Legislative Council, retitled in discussion as a Policy Council, and authorize hiring for the position.

Commissioner Michelle Long Spears asked to review tracked changes and led a discussion explaining the edits aim to ensure the new office provides draft ordinances, resolutions and policy research while remaining complementary to the County Attorney’s Office. Attorney Welch, who worked on the redline, told the committee the changes were intended to avoid duplication and to clarify that the proposed policy council would provide an initial review and drafts that would then be reviewed and approved by the County Attorney.

Welch also cautioned the board to clarify how work would be assigned to the position and how to handle any potential conflicts in direction. Commissioners emphasized the role should supplement—not supplant—the County Attorney’s Office.

Because not all commissioners were present, the committee voted to advance the item to the full Board of Commissioners without issuing a formal committee recommendation, so the full board can decide on final language and implementation details. Commissioners directed the law department to prepare a substitute (redline-to-substitute) for the board meeting.