HomeMy WebLinkAbout2003-10-20 CHC MIN
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Stillwater Charter Commission
Minutes of October 20,2003 Meeting
Chairperson Ruch called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.
Commissioners Present: Eugene Bealka, Pat Needham, Richard Colemier, Gary
Kriesel, Charles Donnelly, John Lund, Wayne Anderson and Chairperson Ruch
Commissioners Absent: Nile Kriesel
Approval of Minutes: Motion by Mr. Needham, second by Mr. Colemier to
approve the May 19, 2003 minutes. All in favor.
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Old Business
Ms. Ruch read several sections from the State Statute # 471.705 regarding the
Open Meeting Law. Discussion ensued on what constitutes public notice of
meeting, and what constitutes a "meeting". Ms. Ruch pointed out that a meeting
is defined as "a gathering of a quorum (or more) members of a governing body at
which members decide, discuss or receive information as a group on issues
related to the official business of that governing body." Mr. Colemier pointed out
that, as a result of the open meeting law, most commissions and advisory
councils expanded their membership to at least 5 people, so as not to run afoul
of the law.
Councilman G. Kriesel indicated that the Water Board has remained at 3
members, which could put them in jeopardy of being in violation of the law with
only 2 members discussing water Board matters outside of the regular meetings.
As such, Commission members thought they should discuss this further with the
City's legal counsel, Dave Magnuson. The Commission directed the Chair to
contact Mr. Magnuson to discuss two related issues:
1. Has the Water Board ever been advised to request expansion of its
membership and/or should it rightfully be expanded to avoid conflicts with this
law? If appropriate, the Chair is to ask Mr. Magnuson to formally address the
issue with the Water Board.
2. What is appropriate public notice of meetings? Is it acceptable for the Water
Board and the Library Board to post their meeting notices on their own,
respective bulleting boards, or do notices have to be posted on the City Hall
bulletin board?
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Councilman G. Kriesel gave an update on discussions with the Library Board on
the proposed expansion. He provided Commission members with a summary
memo that Larry Hansen, City Administrator, had prepared that covered financed
and operating cost (present and proposed). It is the feeling of the Commission
that no action needs to be/should be taken. Chairperson Ruch noted that it is
good that the matter is being fully reviewed and discussed.
. Chuck Donnelly submitted his resignation since he is moving to Oak Park
Heights. Chairperson Ruch thanked him for his years of service.
New Business
Ms. Ruch noted that all but two of the Commissioner have terms expiring in May
of 2004. It appeared that those present would opt to re-up for another term, with
the exception of Mr. Donnelly. Mr. Donnelly suggested that he may know of
several people who might have an interest in serving. It was determined that the
next meeting will be held January 12, 2004, since the third Monday is a holiday.
Motion by Commissioner Anderson, second by Commissioner Kriesel to adjourn
at 8: 15. All in favor.
Respectively submitted,
Mary Ruch
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