Commission considers dissolving bylaws after city ordinance review

Christina Testabuzzy opened discussion by saying the commission’s bylaws and the city ordinance are under review and that committee members recommended dissolving the bylaws because the ordinance “provides all the guidance that we potentially need.”

Simone Morris asked about the bylaws’ origin and whether a separate bylaws document is necessary, noting that bylaws are often easier to change than an ordinance and seeking historical context for the commission’s earlier bylaws. "I'd want to understand from the original creators what their why was," she said.

Members reported that when the commission was reinstated about four to five years ago bylaws were created but that council guidance indicated only two other commissions currently have bylaws. Staff said corporation counsel advised that any proposed changes must be submitted to counsel for review, then voted on by the commission, then routed to the ordinance committee and the common council for a public hearing and vote.

Sharon Balante and other members argued that eliminating duplicate or potentially conflicting language in bylaws could reduce confusion and administrative burden. Avon (committee member) summarized the next step: the bylaws committee will research historical records, submit recommended language or a proposal, and return next month with a motion for the full commission to consider.

The commission did not take a final vote on dissolving or amending bylaws at the meeting; members agreed to gather additional information and counsel review before any formal action. The committee will present a proposed motion and supporting documentation at the next regular meeting for full consideration.