Aldermen postpone reappointment of Thomas to Planning Commission pending clarification

The Annapolis City Council on May 7 postponed consideration of AP 2026, a proposed reappointment of Thomas to the planning commission, after aldermen said the timing appeared inconsistent with the incumbent’s stated term.

The chair opened discussion noting Thomas has served on the commission since 2022 and that a mayoral letter recommending a reappointment had been submitted. Alderman Frank Thorp and other members said the city website lists the current term expiring June 30, 2027, and asked why a reappointment was being advanced a year early.

Council members asked that the nominee be invited to the next meeting so aldermen could ask about the candidate’s commitment to the code and hear reasons for the early action. The mayor’s office had recommended Mr. Safi for appointment in a submitted letter, a point members cited while urging clarification.

A motion to postpone consideration until the next meeting passed with no recorded objections. Council members said postponement would allow staff to verify term dates and for the appointee to appear in person for questions.

The council did not vote on the reappointment itself; staff was asked to locate the term information and coordinate the appointee’s attendance at the next meeting.