02-19-1998 Charter Minutes (2) - Laserfiche WebLink

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Charter Commission February 19, 1998 Page 6 Mayor Sullivan added that the Commission should not hesitate to approach Council at any time, should the need arise. Commissioner Dunn asked when Council might have a strategic plan available to the Commission. Mayor Sullivan suggested that by the end of the third quarter a working plan should be in place. Ms. Vaske added that September 15 should be the budget goal, and between that date and the end of the year goals for the next five years could be fixed and incorporated financially. She also pointed out that the community feels more secure if the budget is set by the time tax notices go out. Mayor Sullivan pointed out that this first year will be trial-and-error. She added that as citizen- oriented budgeting is implemented, as individuals and as a group the Commission will become more aware of areas of interest and concern, and become more involved earlier in the process. Chair Montain suggested the inclusion of a draft Commission five-year CIP on the October Council agenda. Commissioner Trehus asked about representation from the Commission on the Comprehensive Task Force, requesting an opinion from Staff and from Council for evaluation at the Commission's April meeting. Commissioner Corson requested that the budget review process as outlined in the Charter be placed on the next meeting agenda. Commissioner Turner asked for Council opinion regarding changing Charter language. Council Member Lyden suggested extreme caution. Mayor Sullivan agreed. Commissioner Dunn mentioned that at one time there was discussion regarding expanding the Task Force membership, and that perhaps that issue should be revisited. Mayor Sullivan pointed out the importance of keeping that group down to a manageable number. Ms. Vaske pointed out that there is certain terminology within the Charter which is outdated and should be changed, such as reference to the City Clerk having responsibility for financial matters which is no longer accurate. Mayor Sullivan pointed out that the intent of the Charter in this regard is to maintain City Clerk and Treasurer duties within City Hall. Chair Montain explained that the Charter can be changed either by public vote, or by a combined 2/3 vote of the Charter and 4/5 of Council. Mayor Sullivan thanked the Charter Commission for initiating this joint meeting and for being open to Council input. She also thanked Staff for attending. Chair Montain also expressed appreciation for Council and Staff attendance and input. 6