4.4. SR 01-21-2003 - Laserfiche WebLink

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Board and Commission Residency Requirement Background Information Page 5 January 13, 2003 The City Clerk entered into the record two citizen letters regarding this issue; one letter addressed to the Mayor and Council from Duane Kropuenske in favor of residency requirements, and a second letter addressed to the Mayor and Council from David Anderson opposed to residency requirements. Mayor Klinzing opened the floor for public input on this issue. Lana Huberty, Park and Recreation Commissioner, indicated that she is not in favor of amending the ordinance to include a residency requirement for the Park and Recreation Commission. She noted that the City Council has the opportunity to appoint non residents and also that the City Council makes the final decision on spending money in the city. Clair Olson, Park and Recreation Commissioner, indicated that it is in the city's best interest to find the best qualified individual for a board or commission regardless of whether or not the individual resides in or out of the city. He further stated that the school district encompasses an area larger than the city of Elk River. Clair Olson indicated that he is opposed to residency requirements. Dana Anderson, Park and Recreation Commissioner, indicated that there are some commissions in the city of Elk River that are unique in that they deal with youth organizations and youth agencies that are not located only within the city of Elk River. He stated that not changing the ordinance would serve the city in its greatest capacity. John Kuestero Park and Recreation Commissioner, indicated that the Park and Recreation Commission is a joint partnership. He stated that many facilities within the city of Elk River were built and financed by many people and organizations outside of the city of Elk River. Councilmember Matin stated he does not feel there should be restrictions on residency on the commissions because they are volunteer in nature. He proposed that any changes to the ordinance not include a residency requirement. Councilmember Farber stated he feels the Park and Recreation Commission and Ice Arena Commission are unique in that they serve residents outside of the city limits. He further stated that the City Council has the final say in regard to spending money. Councilmember Thompson indicated that he has been approached by many of his constituents regarding this issue. He stated that all but one of the people he has spoke to regarding this matter are in favor of residency requirements. He stated that as he is acting on the behalf of his constituents he will be voting in favor of a residency requirement for boards and commissions. Bryan Adams, Utilities General Manager, stated that by adopting a residency requirement the city will be excluding people from serving on the Utilities Commission who are served by Elk River Utilities. Councilmember Dietz stated that when the park ordinance was amended years ago to allow outside residents, it was changed due to the lack of Elk River S:\CLERK\BOARDCOM\HistoryLResidency Requirements Background.doc