12-19-2005 - Laserfiche WebLink

Commission Minutes--December 19, 2005 3016 Mrs. Sorum feels the three departments are complex and need someone with knowledge in each position. She stressed the importance of the public being informed and of holding public hearings to allow for citizen input. Mr. Wagner agreed that the commission needs to gauge what public sentiment is on this issue. Mr. Pawluk supports the idea that the three positions be appointed; however, he is unwilling to support the change unless an advisory vote is held to allow citizens to voice their opinion. Mr. Wagner said county voters approved the Home Rule Charter in 1994 and gave the commission the authority to appoint these offices. Mr. Vanyo suggested the ordinance be drafted by the state's attorney in order to move forward with the process. He said this has been studied by the Local Governance Advisory Committee and feels now is an appropriate time to address this issue because the county recorder is not running for office next year. MOTION, passed Mr. Wagner moved and Mr. Vanyo seconded to move forward with the recommendation of the Local Governance Advisory Study Committee; to have the State's Attorney draft an ordinance to change the county auditor, county treasurer, and county recorder offices to be appointed by the county commission; and to schedule a public hearing after the ordinance has been drafted. Discussion: Mr. Pawluk feels voters should be given the opportunity to voice their opinion on authorizing the county commission to appoint these offices. Mr. Wagner said the commission will allow citizen input through the public hearing process. On roll call vote, the motion carried with four members voting "Yes" and Mr. Pawluk voting "No". 19. COUNTY ROAD 17/CITY OF HORACE, Meetina to be arranaed Mr. Vanyo received a letter today from the mayor of the City of Horace regarding County Roads 14 and 17 that run through the city. He said it appears that Horace is willing to participate in a joint meeting with the county to discuss this issue. A letter was sent to them in October and since the county had not received a response, he requested the item to be on today's agenda in order to invite a conversation with the city. MOTION, passed Mr. Vanyo moved and Mr. Wagner seconded to coordinate a time and place to meet with the City of Horace to discuss County Road 17 issues. Discussion: Mr. Pawluk asked if the item should be discussed at a Road Advisory meeting or a special meeting. Mr. Vanyo felt a special meeting with city officials should be held, as was the case with the City of West Fargo during discussions on County Road 17 within their city limits. Mrs. Sorum said this may be setting a precedent for other cities with similar issues and that the City of Harwood also has a county road that runs through their city limits. On roll call vote, the motion carried unanimously.