Title
An Ordinance amending the Code of Ordinances of the City of Lee's Summit, Missouri by enacting a new Section 2-253. Members to be qualified voters - exceptions, providing generally for the qualifications for members of City boards, committees, and commissions. (Rules 3/14/22)
Body
During the December 14, 2021 meeting of the City Council, members of the Council discussed the current residency requirements for members of city boards and commissions. Mayor Pro Tem Lopez was asked to assign the matter to the Rules Committee. Later the same day Mayor ProTem Lopez did so. Attached to this packet you will find a memorandum prepared by staff for discussion purposes. Staff will be seeking direction on further drafting.
Update for 2-28-22 - The Committee met and discussed some draft language at the January meeting. At the conclusion of that meeting staff was directed to revise the language and place it in an ordinance form for further discussion at the February meeting. This ordinance amends the Code of Ordinances by adding a new section 2-253 to provide that members of City Boards, Committees and Commission must be qualified voters of the City unless certain exceptions apply and upon a 2/3rds vote of the entire City Council.
Update for 3-14-22 - The Committee met and discussed the added language at its meeting on February 28. The Committee further requested the addition of a requirement that members of boards and commissions report his or her address yearly or at any time the address has changed. This language has been added and will be considered at the 3-14 meeting.
This ordinance establishes certain requirements for any person seeking appointment to a city board, committee or commission must be a registered voter of the City. However the Mayor may appoint a non-qualified voter of the City if no qualified voter has applied and the City Council consents to the appointment by a 2/3rds majority. Any member of a city board, committee or commission who is not a qualified voter at the time of the final approval of this ordinance will be deemed to have resigned his or her seat. Finally, members are required to update the City Clerk with his or her home address each year and at any time the address changes.
PROPOSED COUNCIL MOTION:
First motion: I move for second reading of bill no. ### entitled: An Ordinance amending the Code of Ordinances of the City of Lee's Summit, Missouri by enacting a new Section 2-253. Members to be qualified voters - exceptions, providing generally for the qualification of City boards, committees and commissions.
Second Motion: I move for approval of bill no. ### entitled: An Ordinance amending the Code of Ordinances of the City of Lee's Summit, Missouri by enacting a new Section 2-253. Members to be qualified voters - exceptions, providing generally for the qualification of City boards, committees and commissions.
Presenter
Brian W. Head, City Attorney
Committee Recommendation
Committee Recommendation: On March 17, 2022 the City Council Rules Committee recommended approval by a vote of 3-0