Committee dissolves Housing Commission and creates larger Housing Advisory Board with new bylaws
Summary
The committee approved dissolving the Ottawa County Housing Commission and creating an 11‑member Housing Advisory Board (advisory only). Members debated open‑meetings language, teleconferencing and remote voting; an amendment requiring notice, minute taking and public comment was adopted, while a proposed ban on remote voting for HAB members failed.
The Planning & Policy Committee voted to dissolve the existing Ottawa County Housing Commission and create an 11‑member Ottawa County Housing Advisory Board (HAB) governed by new bylaws.
Staff and proponents said the reorganization expands local representation, keeps the body advisory (no independent decision‑making authority), and better aligns the county’s approach with current housing goals and grant opportunities. Paul Sacks (staff) and legal advisers described the change as a move to increase stakeholder participation while preserving the county’s ability to collaborate with HUD and other funders.
Multiple commissioners debated transparency measures and operational rules. Commissioner Mima proposed changing the first sentence of bylaws section 3.2 so the HAB “shall” (rather than “may voluntarily”) comply with notice, minute taking and public comment requirements of the Open Meetings Act; supporters noted the amendment merely ensures three transparency practices are followed. The committee adopted that amendment by voice vote.
Commissioners also debated a motion to prohibit remote voting by HAB members (to encourage in‑person attendance). Several members and outside speakers argued teleconferencing increases participation for unpaid, voluntary advisory members; proponents of the restriction said in‑person participation strengthens collaboration. The motion to ban remote voting was moved and seconded but ultimately failed in discussion and reconciliation; the committee returned to the original motion and approved the resolution to dissolve the commission and create the HAB. Roll call on the main motion recorded unanimous approval from present committee members.
Staff said the reorganization should not affect existing grants and that the advisory structure may allow broader local participation. The HAB’s bylaws set three‑year terms for most non‑board members, one‑year terms for the board appointed member, and allow formation of special committees and task forces with flexibility for reporting requirements.
Next steps: staff will bring the finalized language to the full Board of Commissioners and begin implementation steps to seat the expanded HAB.
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