By Howard Packowitz
An agenda item considered routine was not routine at all Tuesday night for the Bloomington City Council.
Council members held off on approving three appointments to the Transportation Commission and a fourth appointment to the Property Maintenance Review Board.
Council member Jamie Mathy proposed a delay so colleagues can have a public discussion about their expectations for the various boards, which are composed of volunteer members. He said there’s been a lot of misinformation spread on social media.
“We’re engaged in a conversation, which suggests to me that there’s a need for a conversation,” said Council member Julie Emig.
Mathy claimed this is not a power grab, but member Joni Painter said she’s opposed to one of Mayor Tari Renner’s nominees.
Painter also said Renner hasn’t returned her phone calls to discuss the matter. Renner said he always returns council members’ calls.
The mayor said, “I’m looking back at my phone, and I do not have single call from you, Joni.”
“Well, that’s amazing,” Painter responded.
Jeff Crabill and Jenn Carrillo were the only council members voting against the delay.
“The more structural conversation about what we’re looking for in appointments, and what is the right fit for these boards and commissions, should be separate from the conversation about these four people who are now going to have to wait until a July meeting to see us take action on their appointments,” said Carrillo.
“I don’t really think it is fair for them because we didn’t do our homework, and have this conversation before we showed up today,” Carrillo also said.
Carrillo was one of several council members who said a review of the appointment process is not related to the ongoing controversy about membership of the Connect Transit board.
Howard Packowitz can be reached at [email protected]
