Planning and Development Services Department
TO: David L. Corliss, City Manager
FROM: Margene K. Swarts, Assistant Director, Development Services
CC: Scott McCullough, Director, Planning and Development Services
DATE: October 14, 2009
RE: Community Commission on Homelessness (CCH) Member Terms
As you know, there are four CCH member terms expiring on December 31, 2009. One member, Wes Dalberg, is eligible for reappointment. Three members: Katherine Dinsdale, Loring Henderson, and Shirley Martin-Smith are not eligible because they are completing their second full term on the CCH.
The CCH has been very dedicated to addressing homelessness issues in the community and has worked hard to develop the Housing Vision (adopted by the City Commission in June, 2007) as well as furthering other efforts to end homelessness. Due to the complexity of homelessness issues, this particular commission has a steep learning curve with regard to serving on the CCH. As a result, finding appropriate replacement members for the CCH may be difficult. The Mayor noted these concerns at the October 6, 2009 City Commission meeting and asked staff for a recommendation.
I have visited with all members whose terms are expiring. Mr. Dalberg is agreeable to being reappointed for another three year term. With regard to the three who are not eligible for reappointment, I suggest the Mayor extend their terms for a period of six months – until June 30, 2010. All three, Dinsdale, Henderson, and Martin-Smith, are agreeable to this suggestion.
This will allow the CCH to continue their work and maintain continuity during the next few months when many efforts are underway that will impact homelessness in the community. Additionally, it will allow the CCH an opportunity to review their activities and make future recommendations to the City Commission regarding the CCH as may be appropriate after the first of the year.
I made this suggestion at the CCH meeting on October 13, 2009 and the group was supportive and thought it was a good idea. This appears to be a good interim solution to the CCH appointment situation. Should you have further questions, please let me know.