Commission unanimously amends rules of order, then elects Katie Albright chair and Obe/Obi Rambo vice chair

The Homelessness Oversight Commission voted unanimously to amend its rules of order on Wednesday, removing a clause that required the chair and vice chair to be elected from different appointing bodies.

Commissioner Sharkey Laguna moved to strike the sentence in Article 4 that read "the chair and the vice chair will each be elected from 1 of the 2 appointing bodies," arguing the rule produced unequal chances for leadership and limited opportunities for people disproportionately affected by homelessness.

After debate about representation and the original rationale for the split-appointment design, the commission took a roll-call vote and the motion passed with all commissioners voting "aye." Commissioner Kristin Evans, a former commissioner who called in, urged the group to ensure minority voices retain the ability to agendize items.

Later in the meeting, the commission nominated and elected its officers under the revised rules. Commissioner Bevan Dufty nominated interim chair Katie Albright for the chair role; Albright accepted and was elected by unanimous roll call. Commissioner Sharkey Laguna nominated Commissioner Obaid/Obi Rambo for vice chair; Rambo accepted and was likewise elected unanimously.

Commissioners stressed the changes are procedural and administrative: the amendment does not change voting rules for policy matters but allows any commissioner to be eligible for leadership positions. Several commissioners said maintaining collegiality and transparency will remain priorities.

The commission recorded the roll-call votes for both the rules amendment and the officer elections; both measures passed without dissent.