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Council reaffirms Michael Amano to School Committee after debate over city‑employee eligibility
Summary
After the city attorney advised that city employees may be barred under Charter section 5.6, councilors debated whether the hybrid appointed model created a 'special employee' exemption; the council reaffirmed Michael Amano's appointment by a recorded vote.
The council considered whether a city employee may serve on the city’s newly reconstituted School Committee and whether the appointment of Michael Amano complied with the City Charter.
The clerk read a memorandum from City Attorney Timothy P. Hooten dated Dec. 8 that advised councilors that, under the charter’s language, "no member of the school committee other than the mayor shall, during the term for which she was elected, hold any other compensated city office or city employment." The memo concluded that because the charter’s prohibition refers to holding compensated city office or employment during the term, an appointed city employee who would receive compensation is prevented from being appointed.
Councilors and the candidate (referred to in the record as Mr. Armando / Michael Amano) debated the memo’s interpretation, whether the 2016 charter amendment’s intent extended to appointed members, and whether the city’s special‑employee/conflict‑of‑interest rules create an exemption. One councilor and the candidate cited opinion and case law suggesting courts will apply plain language and legislative intent; other councilors argued the council should retain discretion or amend the charter through a well‑publicized process.
The candidate said he understood the legal questions and said he would accept compensation only if permitted; he also said he would serve in any case. After extended debate, the council took a motion to reaffirm the appointment. Roll call showed the motion carried with a majority (the record shows six in favor, one abstention and two no votes). The clerk announced the candidate affirmed and next steps included swearing‑in and orientation.
