09-01-1999 PC - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Browse Search

Mounds View Planning Commission September 1, 1999 Regular Meeting Page 22 110 nature should be included, and subject to the approval of the City Council. He stated in this case, a change might not be required. Commissioner Hegland stated the developer had requested a fence and a change to its location because he thought it was necessary, and the necessity of that is in question. Commissioner Stevenson stated that Ms. Olsen had a point, in that the Council may have misinterpreted the plans. Chairperson Peterson stated this also was a possibility. B. Commission Ordeen Braathen's leave of absence request. Community Development Director Jopke stated this item was the consideration of Commissioner Braathen's request for a leave of absence. He stated Commissioner Braathen has, for reasons of establishing his business in a new location, requested he be granted a six month leave of absence. He stated Commissioner Braathen desired to continue to serve, however, at this time, he has other commitments, which prevent him from attending the meetings. Jopke stated the Code in this regard was somewhat confusing, however, it indicates the requirement that the Commissioners attend twenty meetings within the year, and if not, they are subject to review • and removal from the Commission. He stated that Commissioner Braathen would not be able to meet that requirement, if he is absent for six months. He stated the Mayor and Council have asked the Planning Commission to provide their opinion on the matter, prior to approving or denying Commissioner Braathen's request. Chairperson Peterson stated on two prior occasions, the Planning Commission has granted leaves of absence, with the expectation that the Commissioner would commit the time after the leave of absence, and there was no problem. He stated this was provided the membership of the Commission did not become too low. Commissioner Berke inquired what the Planning Commission would do procedurally, with eight members present, in the event of a locked vote. Chairperson Peterson stated there was previously a requirement of seven Commissioners and a maximum of nine. He stated presently there is a minimum and maximum of nine members. He stated that during a leave of absence, a Commissioner still holds their seat, however, but does not participate. Commissioner Hegland inquired if Commissioner Braathen would still have voting rights. Chairperson Peterson stated he would not expect anyone on a leave of absence would want to vote, and if they did it would cause him to question their motives. Commissioner Hegland stated, in light of the videotaping procedures, he could vote by proxy. Jopke stated this would be difficult, in that he would not be present to hear the evidence presented. • Commissioner Hegland stated, with the communication technology available, he would think this would be possible, however, the issue was whether or not they would want to do this.