Boards & Commissions Committee – March 12, 2024

Boards & Commissions Committee Meeting Recap – March 12, 2024

On March 12, 2024, the Boards & Commissions Committee convened virtually to discuss several important matters impacting city governance and advisory boards. Council Member Roney filled in as chair for Vice Mayor Kilgore, leading the meeting which focused primarily on ordinance amendments and board management. The committee's recommendations will now move forward to the City Council for final approval, directly influencing how various city functions are supported and managed.

A significant portion of the meeting centered on a proposal from the Civic Center Commission to update their governing ordinance and change the commission's name. The proposed changes reflect a departmental restructuring that occurred in 2022, expanding the department’s scope to include more facilities and advisory roles. This includes updating facility names (like U.S. Cellular Center to Harris Cherokee Center and Asheville Art Museum to Wortham Center) and broadening the definition of public art. Following discussion, the committee unanimously voted to recommend that City Council adopt these amendments and name change, ensuring the Civic Center Commission can effectively advise on a wider range of city assets.

The committee also addressed the Asheville-Buncombe Riverfront Commission, debating a proposal to remove one of the county commissioner seats and appoint Council Member Maggie Ullman to the council member seat. While some committee members expressed concerns about potentially weakening the partnership between the city and county, a vote was taken to recommend appointing Council Member Ullman. Staff will ensure that the City Council agenda includes a note regarding the need for motions and seconds related to this item, acknowledging the discussion that took place.

Recognizing a clear need for streamlining and modernization, the committee also considered the dissolution of the Police Officers & Firefighters Disability Review Board. This board hasn’t met since 2001 and currently holds no funds, making its continued existence unnecessary. The committee voted to recommend dissolving the board, eliminating an outdated and inactive entity. Finally, a presentation and demonstration of new board management software was provided by staff. This system will replace existing spreadsheets, streamline application processes, and provide easier access to applicant information – including demographic data. Staff will continue populating the system with existing board member and application data.

There were no public comments received during this meeting. However, a brief discussion occurred regarding future automation to proactively reach out to applicants on file when openings arise.

What's Next? The committee’s recommendations – regarding the Civic Center Commission, Riverfront Commission appointment, and Disability Review Board dissolution - will now be presented to the City Council for final consideration. Staff members Jerry Goldberg and Sarah Gross will continue working on populating the new board management software, ensuring a smooth transition to this improved system. Residents can follow these developments by attending City Council meetings or visiting the city's website for updates on agenda items.