06-19-02 Orientation - Laserfiche WebLink

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Chapter 1 Definitions and Legal Liability Section 1: Boards and Commissions Defined The work done by citizens serving on Boards and Commissions is a vital part of the work of La Porte City Govemment. La Porte has two types of Boards and Commissions -Advisory and Decision-Making. Additionally, there are Boards whose membership is appointed by the City Council that are separate legal entities. Appendix A provides a general description of each type of Board and Commission. The ordinances creating Boards often require Board Members to have expertise in a certain area. Appendix B specifies the eligibility requirements for the Boards and Commissions that have their membership defined by City Ordinance. Section 2: Advisory Commissions and Boards advise the La Porte City Council on public policy. They play a very important role in city government by providing the City Council with creative ideas, feedback from the community, and by serving as a sounding board for proposed public policy. It is important to remember that the role of Advisory Commissions is not to set public policy but to advise the City Council. Advisory Boards and Commissions Expiring Name Members Term ears Members Per Year Airport Advisory 7 Regular 3 years 2 2 Advisory 3 years - Fire Code Review 9 Members 2 years 3 Section 3: Decision-Making Boards and Commissions are "quasi-judicial" and are governed by State law. Decision-Making Boards set or enforce public policy and are potentially subject to review by the courts. Decision-Making Boards also advise the City Council on public policy. Members serving on Decision-Making Boards should take an oath of office and are subject to the open meeting, open records, and ethics laws. Decision-Makinq Boards and Commissions Expiring Name Members Term ears Members Per Year Planning & Zoning Commission 7 Members 3 years 3 Zoning Board of.Adjustment 5 Regular 2 years 2 2 Alternates 2 years 2 Civil Service Commission 3 Regular 3 years 1