Commission approves first reading to allow student voting on Human Rights Commission

Royal Oak commissioners passed a first reading on Feb. 24 to amend the city ordinance so student members of the Human Rights Commission may serve as voting members.

Ms. Barton, staff liaison, described the change as a straightforward revision to eliminate language designating students as ‘‘non-voting’’ in the commission’s bylaws and said the redline showing the edit is included in the packet. "We need to change the ordinance and I need to eliminate the non in non voting," she said.

Commissioners spoke in support while noting concerns about protecting student members from harassment. One commissioner said she would support the amendment while warning of ‘‘zero tolerance’’ for anyone who doxes or harasses student board members. Commissioner Herzog moved the ordinance amendment on first reading; Commissioner Douglas seconded, and the motion passed by voice vote.

City staff said the revision reflects the body’s earlier intent to include student voting and that additional procedural protections can be considered at the commission’s discretion.

Next steps: the ordinance proceeds according to the city’s standard ordinance-adoption process for a second reading or additional council action as required.