Code board delays absentee-rule change, will revisit with chair present

The Punta Gorda Code Enforcement Board debated whether to amend local absence rules to match state guidance on approved absences during its June 19 meeting, then decided to hold off until Chair Ko can take part in the conversation.

Staff and board members discussed how state guidance allows prior-approved absences to be excluded from the consecutive‑meeting forfeiture calculation if voters provide notice and approval. Board counsel and staff explained that implementation typically involves prior notice to staff and an approval by the chair or a board vote. Members said recent schedule shuffling (meetings moved between Wednesdays and Thursdays) and volunteer recruitment challenges have contributed to attendance problems. Staff also noted open vacancies on the board and efforts to recruit new members through the city’s weekly highlights and social media.

The board asked staff to prepare draft language to present when Chair Ko can participate. The panel also asked staff and the attorney to revisit one member’s pending forfeiture status in light of the absence policy discussion and recent calendar changes.

Next steps: staff will draft proposed language consistent with state guidance for the board to review at a future meeting when Chair Ko is present, and the clerk will follow up on the membership status question.