NRC to advertise replacement for Warner's Pond committee vacancy after split recommendation

The Natural Resources Commission discussed filling a vacancy on the Warner's Pond Management Committee after a member resigned because of a conflict of interest. Committee members reported a split recommendation: some favored selecting from the prior pool of candidates who had been interviewed; others recommended reopening the process to find candidates with specific technical expertise in ecology or water quality.

Commissioners weighed both positions. Supporters of reopening the search said the committee will be in place for several years and that a clear, repeatable recruitment process (advertise, interview, select) would help secure technical expertise the group lacks after the resignation. Supporters of choosing from the prior pool argued that at least one previously interviewed candidate had relevant experience and could begin work immediately.

Commissioners agreed to advertise the vacancy and to include committee representation (committee chair plus two NRC members/staff) in the interview panel so the committee's perspective is incorporated. The chair said the commission will move quickly to issue a notice and encouraged committee members to suggest qualified people.

Next steps: staff will publish an open call for applicants, gather responses, and the commission plus committee representatives will interview candidates.