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JAN-31-02 THU 11�04 AM FAITHUMC FAX N0, 946 P, 01 To the Roseville City Manager, Roseville City Council, Roseville Planning Commission: January 3 1, 2002 I am writing in regards to the appointment of a Planning Commission chairperson discussed at the January 28, 2002 �oseville City Council meeting. Part of th� discussion suggested that a person who was a non- participant in local political campaigns was �OmCh4W better qualified to bc a chairperson. It also was Suggested that by not participating in these campaigns a person is more ittClependcnt in his/her thinking regarding city issues. 1 feel that both of these suggestions need to be questioned. A person's involvement in local politics is a personal ChpieC and right. There is no city policy requiring a commission member to give up that right. Participating in local political campaigns is an opportunity to be involved in one's local government and to learn more about various issues. 1'he idea of non-participation being better in some way suggests to individuals that if they want to be on a commission they should not support a person �'or public office. If they do so, it could limit their opportunity for commission appointment and/or limit their rolo on a commission. I believe this would exceed the authority o�` local government. Independent thinking is an individual quality, People are faced with lnfluences throughout their e�y: personal CAnVers�tions, the media, Formal mcetings, etc. Demonstrating support for a candidate does not limit the ab i 1 i t y t o think independently and being uninvolved in local campaigns does not enhance it, That ability will remain strong no matter what influences are present, if it exists to begin with in an individuaL Independent thinking is a quality that should be considered when filling a chairperson or any elccted or appointed position. Some other qualities that should be considered when selecting a chairperson are his/her l�ad�rship abilities, communication skills, respect for others, and commitment to the position. John Khody has demonstrated all these qualities while serving as our chairperson on the Planning Commission. I�Ie is very knowledgeable about the role and scope of the Planning Commissioti and keeps the commission focused and on track. Hc respectfully conducts the meetings, giving all those involved an opportunity to express themselves. His term cxpires March 3 1, 2404 (which was not clear at thc January 28 meeiing). I think his reappointment to the Planning Commission chairperson would be beneficial to the commission and the city. 1 ask the council to give this matter careful consideration and appreciate the fact that the majority of council members requested more information before casting their votes. Sincerely„ !� �I��--- J'ai�et M. Olson Rosevillc Planning Commission member 418 Gl�nwood Ave. Rosevillc, MN 55 1 I3 651-488-7855