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Menlo Park finance commissioners name chair, vice chair and discuss adding community budget engagement to work plan
Summary
The Finance and Audit Commission elected Laura Millan as chair and Colin Albright as vice chair by acclamation and discussed adding community budget forums and clearer reporting on internal-control findings to their 2026-27 work plan.
The commission selected leadership and discussed priorities for the coming year. Commissioners nominated Laura Millan for chair and Colin Albright for vice chair; both nominations were approved by acclamation and recorded as a 5-0 affirmation.
Members reviewed the draft presentation they will deliver to City Council on August 25, which summarizes the commission's role and recent activities. Commissioners suggested emphasizing the memorandum on internal control and documenting actions related to the now-closed OpenGov transparency subcommittee.
A substantive work-plan discussion focused on whether the commission should play a role in facilitating community engagement about budget priorities and potential revenue measures. Commissioners framed that possible role narrowly as education and structured public forums (not staff advocacy), noting legal constraints on staff and the difference between education and political advocacy should the city later place measures on a ballot.
Action: the commission agreed to refine the draft presentation and identify a presenter for the August City Council update (the newly selected chair will be offered the first right of refusal). The council presentation is scheduled for August 25; staff will confirm remote-participation rules with the city clerk if needed.
