12/12/13
Shorewood has several appointed commissions and boards that do valuable work and provide guidance to the Council and City staff. Slots are available on the Parks, Planning commissions as well as seats on the Lake Minnetonka Communications Commission (cable TV and community communications) and the Lake Minnetonka Conservation District (manages the surface use of Lake Minnetonka for 14 member cities) boards.
Residents who volunteer can make a real impact on the City by influencing City policy and in some cases participate in making ordinances. Participation is a chance to learn how the City and the region actually works as well as make a real difference in operations and policy.
So having said this, why does the City have a tough time finding applicants and why has this gotten tougher in the past three or so years? The Insider would like readers to comment. Of course, if readers want to apply, they can call City Hall at 952-960-7900 or send email to: cityhall@ci.shorewood.mn.us.
Happy Reading!
The Insider
Are you kidding?
ReplyDeleteThe simplest explanation is that the next generation does not join… anything. Churches are consolidating, softball, bowling, volleyball and golf leagues dying off, VFWs closing, card clubs disappearing, etc. It is unlikely anything will change this trend.
Add to that, regulations so voluminous that, like healthcare, no one will read them.
Regulations so detailed with minutia and legalisms trying to eliminate every possible scenario, that they demoralize those who thought we lived in a free country.
Having to listen to other board members spout politically correct babble and who are only there to add to their resume for when they run for council.
Having to worry how the media might portray you. If you don’t go along with the herd, expect mockery and criticism.
A better question is: how should the city change the commission system – given the above realities?
Just saw the council override a Planning Commission recommendation for no good reason. Why do they bother?
ReplyDeleteJust saw the recent council meeting. Zerby wanted $1500 for a trip to Washington for a conference. Barely finished with his request, Hotvet quickly chirped in about what a wonderful idea it was.
ReplyDeleteInsider, what is on the agenda, and will Shorewood benefit from this or the Excelsior Chamber of Commerce?
Commissions are a way to expand our voice in the government via elected officials and staff.
ReplyDeleteUnfortunately, over the years Shorewood has not been effective at engaging the public, (if you can fog a mirror you can be a commissioner) and the city staff does not invest in developing quality commissioners once they are seated.
That leads to commissions with poor attendance or those who don't have the motivation to do background work or oversite. Worse yet, even the small projects wind up blowing up or being too expensive.
There is plenty of blame to go around for turning an opportunity for strong citizen participation and influence, into a pathetic excuse for "giving back" as some like to refer to it.