Commission names Home Rule Charter Committee chair, approves stipend for members

The Ramsey County Commission appointed Adam Lippon as chairman of the Home Rule Charter Committee and approved a stipend for committee members to reimburse meeting attendance and travel.

Following a review of Century Code provisions and discussion with legal counsel, a commissioner moved to appoint Lippon as committee chair. The appointment was seconded and approved. Commissioners discussed compensation for committee service; the initial recommendation was $50 per meeting plus mileage. Commissioners amended the motion to increase the stipend and by voice vote approved the amended stipend (discussion referenced raising the stipend so members traveling from farther distances are compensated). Staff said the county can provide meeting space, clerical support and other assistance and that any specific expense requests from the committee (office space, legal assistance, supplies) would be handled through the usual county expense process.

Why it matters: the Home Rule Committee will study potential charter changes and its composition, meeting schedule and resources will shape how that review proceeds. The commission emphasized that committee meetings must be public and publicized in advance.

Commissioners asked staff to coordinate scheduling with committee members to accommodate harvest season and other local constraints. The commission noted committee expenses could be reimbursed by the county on request and that the chair will set meeting dates in coordination with county staff.

The motion to appoint Lippon and approve the stipend and administrative support carried by voice vote.