Title
Fire Board of Appeals Code Change
Presenter:
Brett Lacey, Fire Marshal, Colorado Springs Fire Department
Body
Summary:
In 2018, the City Council passed amendments to Chapter 1 of the City Code regarding Council-appointed boards and commissions. Following those amendments, certain boards and commissions (including the Fire Board of Appeals) have struggled to maintain membership that meets the requirements of the Code, including the residency requirement. The Council President has requested that the Fire Marshal present the issues associated with retention and recruiting for the technical positions on the Fire Board of Appeals and offer recommendations for filling those spots.
Previous Council Action:
On October 23, 2018, City Council passed on second reading Ordinance no. 18-104, an ordinance amending Part 9 (Boards and Commissions) of Article 2 (Officers of the City) of Chapter 1 (Administration, Personnel, and Finance) of the Code of the City of Colorado Springs 2001, as amended, pertaining to Boards and Commissions.
Background:
In 2018, the City Council passed amendments to Chapter 1 of the City Code regarding Council-appointed boards and commissions. Following those amendments, certain boards and commissions (including the Fire Board of Appeals) have struggled to maintain membership that meets the requirements of the Code, including the residency requirement. The Council President has requested that the Fire Marshal present the issues associated with retention and recruiting for the technical positions on the Fire Board of Appeals and offer recommendations for filling those spots.
Staff wishes to have a discussion with City Council regarding potential solutions for retention of specialized, technical positions. Staff recommendations include the following:
1. Language that modifies Chapter 1 to permit boards or commissions with specific, categorized appointments (ex: representatives from small or large businesses, fire suppression contractors, etc.), such as the Fire Board of Appeals, to allow members to be either City residents or own/work at businesses located within the City limits. All other at large citizen appointments of general members, however, would continue to require City residency.
2. Pursuant to Council approval on a case-by-case basis, allow up to a one (1) year extension of a member’s term in certain circumstances. The qualifying circumstances for an exemption include: (a) demonstration that no applicants have applied to fill the necessary seats that will become vacant, and (b) the vacant seat will be impact the maintenance of a quorum to conduct business. This extension for a specific member may cease upon the appointment of a qualified applicant to fill the term.
Staff requests direction from City Council regarding this proposal and direction to the City Attorney to draft corresponding ordinances to effectuate the amendments.
Financial Implications:
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Board/Commission Recommendation:
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Stakeholder Process:
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Alternatives:
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Recommended Action
Proposed Motion:
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Summary of Ordinance Language
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