Bates: Get more people on boards

Citing a need to have better representation on the township’s advisory boards and committees, 2nd Ward Councilwoman Shelley-Ann Bates introduced an ordinance this week that would require greater transparency in township appointments.[Click to read the ordinance.]

Residents often criticize the mayor and council for not posting vacancies on the township’s advisory boards and for choosing their appointments from a select group of political allies and Democratic committee members.

Bates’ proposed ordinance — which was tabled for legal review at this week’s council meeting — would require the township to maintain a register detailing all the possible positions and their responsibilities. The register would be available at the Clerk’s Office and on the township’s Web site. Board or committee vacancies would be posted at Township Hall.

The ordinance also calls for a paper application to be created for residents seeking to volunteer. Residents who apply would be kept abreast of their application and what action the council or the mayor take on it.

This is Bates second stab at introducing reform legislation. Last month, Bates drafted and introduced an ordinance that would broadcast meetings on public-access cable TV and post meeting minutes and agendas online. The council has not acted on that ordinance.