Commission seeks clearer rules for advisory‑board terms and resident/property‑owner representation

The commission spent substantial time Oct. 7 clarifying term limits and eligibility rules for advisory boards. Mayor Miller said the existing code language referring to "three 3‑year terms" was ambiguous and asked commissioners for their preferences. After discussion, commissioners expressed a consensus that members could serve up to three consecutive 3‑year terms (nine years) and then sit out one term before being eligible to reapply; staff will draft ordinance language with the city attorney.

Commissioners also discussed whether advisory boards should favor residents over nonresidents. The mayor proposed a structure of three residents and two nonresident property owners (nonresidents must own property and pay city property tax). Commissioners clarified this would be a maximum composition (not a requirement to fill both nonresident slots if none qualify). Citizen Harry Jennings urged forming a citizens’ committee of experienced advisory‑committee members to prepare recommendations.

The commission asked staff to draft proposed ordinance language and said it would consider additional staff recommendations and legal review before returning the item to the commission for formal action.