Are there any changes you’d like to see made to the structure of boards and commissions in the City? If so, please describe and note why

Yes. Many people who call Harbor Springs home cannot vote here: seasonal homeowners, and township neighbors who share our 49740 zip code. They also bring talent and resources, and this community gives generously. If they can help us make better decisions that keep utility bills down, I want their help. If they can help fund better snow removal in February, I want their help. The Harbor Commission already seats members from Little Traverse and West Traverse townships, and it works. As a Parks and Recreation Board member, I would implement that model there first, since township residents use our parks and help pay for them. Where state law allows, I would open advisory seats on key boards to people who own homes here but vote elsewhere. Voters and the city council still make the final call. Advisory seats add knowledge and care, not votes. And every board and committee, however small, should post its agendas and minutes.

City staff cannot be experts in everything, boards provide valuable insight and perspective that lead to better decisions. As the ratio of year around residents decreases, the pool of potential volunteers shrinks. Some have complained that non-residents cannot serve on some boards but I'd point out that suggestions and observations are always welcome and that one can participate without a reserved seat at the table. Term limits have been suggested but I think Council should be able to appoint whomever they like.

The City's Boards and Commissions are a tremendous asset to our town. They embody a vast pool of volunteer expertise that can enhance and streamline the activities of the City assets. The Council however, as the ultimate responsible party, needs to supervise and control the activities of these bodies. The Council also is responsible for integrating the activities of these bodies into the budget and the curriculum of the rest of the City programs. Any adjustments to the structure of these Boards and Commissions needs to be made with respect to how the changes will enhance the best interests of the City.

• I think the overall structure is good. Minor changes have been made recently and I think the only other change to be looked at would be to add West and Little Traverse representatives to Parks board. They both pay a minimal fee to city for usage of parks so having a representative on board would be a positive.