Haines Borough CRC recommends Barbara Nettleton to fill vacant code-review seat

The Haines Borough Code Review Commission voted to recommend that the mayor appoint Barbara Nettleton to fill an open CRC seat with a term expiring in November 2026.

Barbara Nettleton told the commission she previously “served on the code review committee” and worked on incorporating minor-offense provisions into borough code. Nettleton said that earlier CRC work focused on aligning local definitions with state statute and correcting inconsistencies. “I served...when it was at its origination,” she said, describing experience with legal review and drafting definitions.

Members said they would forward a written recommendation and a concise rationale to the mayor. The committee agreed on four supporting points to include in that rationale: Nettleton’s demonstrated concern for transparency in government; a history of engagement in borough processes and service on multiple boards; prior service on the Code Review Commission; and familiarity with Robert’s Rules of Order. Emma, the CRC chair, and other members discussed those bullet points during deliberations and then moved the formal recommendation. The motion was seconded and approved by voice vote.

Laura Smith, speaking during public comment, urged the commission to appoint Nettleton, saying she had “worked on boards or served on boards with Barbara...and found that she has integrity, and...always does her due diligence and always shows up to meetings prepared.”

The commission’s recommendation is advisory; the mayor makes final appointments subject to any assembly confirmation required by borough rules. The clerk noted the commission would prepare the written recommendation for the mayor and the assembly record.

Next steps: the CRC will submit the recommendation and rationale to the mayor for consideration. There was no formal assembly confirmation recorded in this meeting.