04-12-2001 Charter Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

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Charter Commission April 12, 2001 Page 13 Commissioner S. Lane asked if leaving a message on an answering machine constitutes notification. Chair Sullivan stated it would. Chair Sullivan noted the current process works well, as evidenced tonight by the Charter Commission's ability to deal with Commissioner Zastrow's absences. He noted the motion on the floor would require an amendment to the By-Laws. Commissioner Trehus stated it does not need an amendment since the current policy is not within the By-Laws. However, it may require a verbal policy to be established. Commissioner Montain stated he believes that policy and past practice carries a lot of weight and is as strong as the written word. Commissioner Carlson stated with another group he is involved with, the dismissal policy is in writing. He noted that at the last meeting, Commissioner Rafferty did ask that his absence be excused but no decision was made. MOTION failed with Commissioners G. Lane and Zastrow voting yes. Chair Sullivan noted the meeting minutes identify which absences were excused and which were unexcused. He stated he doubts the Charter Commission should go back and change their meeting minutes. He asked if anyone has an issue about past absences. MOTION by Commissioner Trehus to include a statement in the next meeting packet that if you want your recorded absences addressed, the next meeting is the last opportunity to do so. Commissioner Carlson noted the October minutes were tabled which is the set that identifies Commissioner Rafferty as being absent. Commissioner Christopherson suggested that all currently approved minutes not be changed. Commissioner Trehus agreed but noted the Charter Commission can still go back and excuse an absence. Commissioner Montain stated revision to approved meeting minutes is a different process. He noted that there is no penalty for an unexcused absence and if Commissioner Rafferty wants to have his absence considered excused, it can be discussed. There being no second, Chair Sullivan declared the motion dead. Commissioner Zastrow asked for a copy of the information provided by Commissioner Rafferty on commission terms. It was noted that Commissioners S. Lane,Montain, and Zastrow need a copy of that document. 13