2017.03.07 WS Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

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Mayor Johnson agreed and wanted to be clear that the only reason she would choose not to be on camera would be because tough decisions would have to be made and she respected those who have served. Lotter stated if the Council were to contemplate the purpose of each Commission, along with the needs of the community today. Councilmember Jacobsen asked if existing incumbents were being considered or entire Commissions. Mayor Johnson understood the City had great people already serving, however she was thinking entire Commissions should be reconsidered. She suggested that each Councilmember make a recommendation for the group they served as the liaison. Councilmember Burg believed the list of applicants were so strong and for this reason the Council should take into consideration how these individuals might best serve the community. She was not saying that she had any lists in mind, but was interested in considering what applicants would best fit the Commission positions. Mayor Johnson questioned if this discussion should be held on camera or not. She inquired if staff would be able to locate the applications for the currently serving Commission members. Marohn stated she should be able to locate this information. Councilmember Burg did not believe it was necessary to review everyone's resume, but rather wanted to discuss the current members' level of participation. Mayor Johnson was comfortable with the recommendations made by each Councilmember as the acting liaison. Councilmember Jacobsen stated he struggled with having the discussion not being televised. He believed the Council should be open and honest regarding this matter. Mayor Johnson agreed but wanted to see Councilmember Jacobsen speak up. Councilmember Burg also wanted the Council worksession meetings televised. She commented she was not afraid of making a recommendation after thoroughly reviewing the existing and potential commission members' lists. Lotter stated staff could provide the Council with a ballot for each Commission. He stated this may eliminate the need to discuss the pros and cons of each candidate. Councilmember Jacobsen and Mayor Johnson believed this would be a great way to begin addressing this topic. Councilmember Burg wanted to see the best people possible serving on the City's Commissions. She commented she would miss the next Council meeting and asked if she could join the meeting via FaceTime. Lotter explained this would be extremely cumbersome. Councilmember Jacobsen recommended an alternative meeting date be considered to address this topic so that all five Councilmembers could be in attendance. Lotter stated he would send out a survey monkey to the Council to find an alternative meeting date.