At the city council study session this evening, Councilor Molly Carmody questioned the poor optics of having the two same persons [who both also serve on the Chamber Board] serving on both the Salary Commission and the Lodging Tax Advisory Committee (LTAC), where they are in a position to have advisory input over dissemination of thousands of dollars in funds making “significant financial decisions.” Councilors Stillwell and DePinto added their comments and questions in support of this subject. Carmody said she liked these people, and trust these people, yet the optics are terrible, even that they have the city’s best interest at heart. Carmody called for a greater effort next year in citizen recruitment to serve on these committees. Carmody also recommended that the elected official Chair be rotated among the councilors annually, so all can get experience on this committee.
Bottom line:
The public will be informed and have an opportunity to comment on the LTAC decisions at the December 11th council meeting. Click here for the council session video, begin at 57:00.
– Editor’s Note:
I applaud Councilor Carmody raising this issue and the comments from the council in transparency to bring this before the public. The Yelm Community Blog initiated this issue on October, 23, 2018 and November 28, 2018.
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