04-12-2001 Charter Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

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Charter Commission April 12, 2001 Page 11 Chair Sullivan stated his concern is that some were aware of this policy and others were not. Commissioner Christopherson stated he knew about the absence policy at the July meeting when it was discussed. Commissioner Carlson stated if the Commission wants to hold a member to this policy, it should be included in the By-Laws. Commissioner Trehus stated not including it in the By-Laws allows the Commission to consider each absence on a case-by-case basis. He stated if a Commissioner misses several meetings but has a desire to attend meetings, he would like the ability to consider it rather than waiting for months for the judge to make the reappointment. Commissioner Trehus stated he does not think any Commissioners will try to "skirt" this issue if they want to be part of the Charter Commission. He stated he thinks sending the letter is a good policy to maintain since it puts the Commissioner on notice that there has been two absences and they can be dismissed. Chair Sullivan asked if a Commissioner can attend the meeting but leave in half-an hour and have it counted as an attendance. Commissioner Montain stated during his tenure on the Commission,this has not really been an issue and if someone was dismissed, they did not indicate they wanted to get back on. Commissioner Carlson stated the issue was raised because a Commissioner called in his absence but not to an officer. He asked if a reporting policy should be considered. Commissioner Montain stated the Chair would not arbitrarily write the letter and it would be discussed by the Charter Commission when the issue was raised. He stated in a case where the Commissioner had made numerous calls and ended up taking with a non-officer,he would vote to keep the Commissioner on the Charter Commission. Commissioner Christopherson stated when this was discussed.at the last meeting, a very fine line was discussed that it would not be excused if an officer was not called. Commissioner Trehus agreed that was the discussion. He noted that there is a delay for making an appointment but if there is a third absence with no excuse, he would have no problem with the dismissal. Chair Sullivan noted the By-Laws do not indicate the Chair would call the absentee and find out if there is a reason. Commissioner Carlson noted reference is made to a State Statute. Commissioner Bening read that section of the Statute which indicated that after four absences without excuse the Secretary files a certificate with the court setting forth those facts and the District Court will then execute an order of removal and the Chief Judge will fill the vacancy. 11