Boards & Task Forces
The City Council appoints more than 90 community members to the various Committees, Commissions, Boards and Task Forces. Currently, Arcata has two Boards which serve as the Boards of Permit and Handicapped Appeals, and currently no Task Forces. The City Council may create a Task Force for a specified length of time to provide advice and/or recommendations to the Council on a specific topic, with final action being the responsibility of the City Council. Whereas, the Boards' primary function is to hear and act upon appeals and decisions made by the Building Official.
A staff liaison is appointed by the City Manager to assist each of the bodies in carrying out their roles and to ensure compliance with protocol as defined by the following:
- Commission and Committee Handbook Part I
- Handbook Part II—The Ralph M. Brown Act (Gov. Code Sections 54950-54963)
- Handbook Part III—Apendicies
- Conflict of Interest Provisions
- Definitions and Information (AMC 2203-2206)
Relationship to City Council
The City Council initially influences these bodies by selecting and appointing members. The Council provides them with general policy direction, while at the same time allowing them the freedom to investigate fully. The City Council also has the ability to remove any appointee at any time with a majority vote of the Council.
Terms of Office
The terms of office for members of a board shall be four years; task force members as set by Council.
Removal from Office
The City Council may remove members by a majority vote. In addition, the Ordinance requires automatic removal of board members upon notification of the Council of two absences within a calendar year; task force members as set by Council.
Selection of Chair & Vice-Chair
Selection of Chair & Vice-Chair for board members is determined every four years; task force members, by election at the first meeting.