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

First, I want to reinforce that boards and commissions play an important role in Harbor Springs. Each of the city boards aligns directly with current council priorities. Second, boards are staffed by dedicated volunteers who donate hours of their time and energy to provide service to the city by enhancing the limited capacity of a small city staff and five city council members. Boards and commissions also give the public an opportunity for hands on experience on how local government operates which then builds a pipeline for future community leaders

That being said, it is time for the city council and boards to review and update the current board/commission structure. I propose the following:

a. Start with a review of board applications and the selection process. The application questions should align with the characteristics necessary to best fulfill duties and responsibilities of the board. Candidates should be selected/appointed on the basis of their qualifications for that specific board. Every board should strive for breadth of opinion and experience in its composition. Right person, right board.

b. Potential candidates should be informed of the responsibilities of membership on the various boards. What is the time commitment, what is expected of membership, what is expected in terms of civil engagement with residents, city council and city of Harbor Springs staff?

c. Ideally, all potential applicants should be expected to attend at least one board meeting of the committee for which they are seeking appointment. This gives them the opportunity to assess their ‘fit’ prior to committing to the application process.

d. City Council should interview potential board members to more fully assess their suitability and interest in a given board. Each board should be required to provide in person orientation for all new members that focuses on policies, state laws, focus and mission of the given board. Knowledge is the key to board success.

In addition, I suggest that we do need restructuring on some of the boards and committees. As an example, my recommendation for the boards that use committees is that we review each committee to analyze purpose and function. Should they be ad hoc committees? Allows for an increased citizen participation and input into committee decisions on an as needed basis. Ad hoc committees would then make recommendations to the parent committee and ultimately the Mayor and City Council. Similar changes could be made for other City Council Boards.