LIVE @ City of Asheville Boards and Commissions Realignment Working Group 10/16/23

Asheville Boards & Commissions Realignment: A Recap of October 16th Meeting

On October 16, 2023, the City of Asheville’s Boards and Commissions Realignment Working Group (RWG) convened to discuss a research analysis examining current practices regarding compensation and accommodations for members of Asheville’s various advisory boards and commissions. The meeting, attended by RWG members and open to the public, aimed to inform potential policy changes based on best practices observed in other jurisdictions. This work is part of a broader effort to evaluate and potentially realign the city’s boards and commissions, originally focused on efficiency but now incorporating considerations of equity and accessibility.

A significant portion of the meeting centered around a presentation by Elena Schmidt from the City’s Equity and Inclusion Department, detailing research conducted across North Carolina and nationally. The research explored how other cities handle board member compensation and accommodations, utilizing an equity toolkit based on the Government Alliance for Race and Equity (GARE) to analyze potential policy implications. Currently, only the Reparations Commission receives stipends from the city; all other boards operate without compensation. The group engaged in a robust discussion about potential options, presented as a "menu" of possibilities ranging from monetary compensation to in-kind benefits like parking passes or professional development opportunities. A key debate revolved around whether any compensation should be offered, with some advocating for an opt-out system rather than requiring members to qualify for compensation, citing concerns that qualification processes could create unnecessary barriers.

Community input was a vital part of the discussion, with several participants sharing their perspectives. Nina emphasized the importance of compensation to reduce barriers and consider individual circumstances, while Ted clarified that the original realignment proposal wasn't primarily driven by equity concerns. Elise supported a comprehensive menu of options, highlighting non-monetary recognition as valuable, and Jay recalled that equity was part of the original proposal’s messaging. Alan stressed the need to diversify marketing efforts and ensure accessibility for all potential applicants, noting that current online postings may not reach everyone.

While no formal votes were taken during the meeting, several key action items emerged. Working group members are encouraged to review and provide feedback on the draft summary report, with a focus on highlighting significant findings. City staff will incorporate this feedback and finalize the report for presentation to City Council in November, alongside a survey of liaisons to ensure alignment with staff recommendations. A presentation is currently scheduled for November 14th, and staff will be meeting with presenters to prepare.

Ultimately, this meeting represents an important step towards ensuring that Asheville's boards and commissions are diverse, accessible, and reflective of the community. The ongoing discussion about compensation and accommodations highlights a commitment to valuing board members’ time and contributions, aiming to attract and retain talent from all backgrounds. Residents can expect further updates as the process progresses towards a potential policy recommendation for City Council, impacting how citizens can participate in shaping their city’s future.