Planning board debates term limits; members indicate preference for three-year terms

Planning staff introduced term limits as a possible addition to the draft bylaws, saying they are intended to keep the board fresh and prevent burnout. Members discussed multiple options — leaving five-year terms in Chapter 18, shortening terms to three years, or imposing consecutive-term limits — and weighed continuity against turnover.

Public commenter Raymond urged caution, arguing term limits should be set by ordinance and adopted by council rather than by bylaws. Board members debated staggering, whether returning after a year should be allowed, and whether chair or vice-chair service should be treated separately from regular member terms.

The board moved toward a working preference for three-year terms with no limit on the number of terms: "So 3 year terms with no limit on the number of terms," said Rick Lowes, the vice chair. Staff will incorporate member feedback into the draft bylaws for further review.