07-14-2008 CHCMHutchinson Charter Commission Meeting Minutes
Monday, July 14, 2008
Members present: Chair Mike Cannon, Roger Stearns, Virgil Voigt, Deb Reopke, Linda
Remucal, Mark Cormier, and Ron McGraw
Members absent: Walt Clay and Judy Simons
Others present: Marc Sebora, City Attorney, Steve Cook, Mayor and Melissa Starke,
Recorder
Chair Cannon called the meeting to order at 4:00 p.m.
Section 11.02 HUC — Appointment and Terms
Mike Cannon inquired what the process for revising the language was. Marc Sebora, City
Attorney explained that they Charter Commission could 1. Recommended changes to the
City Council, and they take effect 90 days following, citizens may petition to vote on
revisions at election (2% of last election). 2. The City Council can revise language and
forward to the Charter Commission for approval or 3. Strict petition by the citizens.
Discussion of appointment process now.
Mayor Cook noted he feels it is important to have a City Council member on the Charter
Commission to keep communication open and flowing in a positive format. Roger
Stearns agreed that it is important to have Council representation.
Mike Cannon noted that HUC General Manger Michael Kumm had contacted him with
some reservations. 1. Learning curve (2 -3 years to acclimate) continuing. 2. Potential
conflict of interest (City vs. HUC). 3. Meeting are open to public, monthly financials
available.
Deb Roepke had concerns with the City Council member being a voting member. Virgil
Voigt commented that he likes having a City Council member on HUC it is a good
communication tool. Ron McGraw does not see a necessity of mandatory appointment.
Mark Cormier questioned if there could be a conflict of interest, currently ability to
appoint a City Council Member is they so wished to do. Steve Cook commented that
politics play a role "shall" makes it easy; hospital has required a City Council member to
serve on its board for years with no conflicts. Mike Cannon has concerns about the time
constraint of a City Council member dedicating to both boards.
Motion by McGraw, second by Stearns to leave the language as is, motion carried
unanimously. This is the recommendation to the City Council.
HAHC Language removal of Sections 6.02, 7.07, entire Chapter 12 would be
stricken due to the privatization of HAHC.
Motion by McGraw, second by Cormier to remove the language above stated, motion
carried unanimously.
Charter Commission Meeting Minutes — August 27 2001
Membership
Set up with 12 members, down to 9 active members. The City is trying to recruit, or
should they reduce the number of members. The Charter Commission needs to have
between 7 and 15 members. Cannon hopes to leave at 12. Mayor Cook commented that
they should recruit from the Blandin or Leadership Institute. It was decided that a letter
will be sent to the Leadership Institute graduates to recruit and Blandin graduates.
Miscellaneous
General discussion on the Creekside operation.
Motion by McGraw, second by Voigt to adjourn the meeting. Motion carried
unanimously. The meeting adjourned at 4:45 p.m.