Item B: Boards, Commissions and Committees

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would like to achieve through the City of Eugene boards, commissions and committees processes? How can staff best support the desired results? Representation Potential outcome: The makeup of boards, commissions and committees should over time represent the richness of the community’s perspectives, neighborhoods, and population demographics – race and ethnicity, gender, age, socioeconomic class, dis/ability and other factors. Strategies and tools that could help achieve this outcome include: ? Mentorships and internships for potential advisory group members ? Enlistment of Human Rights Commission, neighborhood associations and other allies to develop and invite members ? Development and implementation of more numerous and varied outreach approaches that meet differing needs and preferences ? Regular reports to council and others on the makeup of City advisory groups ? Open houses and citizens’ academies that provide information about City services and policies, and help develop a “pipeline” for future advisory group members Board, commission and committee member development Potential outcome: Advisory group members are effective and feel satisfied because they have the training and support to be successful contributors – both before becoming candidates for BCC vacancies and following their appointments. Strategies and tools that could help achieve this outcome include: ? General orientation sessions for advisory group members that incorporate information on City budgeting, public records and open meetings requirements, news media relations, meeting facilitation and process, and other topics ? Open houses, citizens’ academies, and training to supplement what departments and advisory group staff already provide ? Increased use of technology for sharing information ? Surveys to current members for feedback on processes and support Recruitment and selection Potential outcome: Communication and procedures associated with outreach, recruitment, interviews, selection and appointments are fair, accessible, transparent and civil. Strategies that could help achieve this outcome include: ? Up-to-date information on the City’s website and printed materials ? Reliable, easy-to-use online application system that gives applicants timely notification ? Redesigned application and interview processes that are thorough, welcoming and manageable ? Open houses, citizens’ academies and targeted outreach that build on existing community groups and events Z:\CMO\2009 Council Agendas\M090608\S090608B.doc