By Rich Larson
The city of Northfield is looking for a resident to fill a vacancy on its Charter Commission, the volunteer board responsible for reviewing and revising the document that serves as the constitution of city government.
The open seat carries a term that expires Dec. 31, 2027. Applications are due by noon Nov. 17.
According to a statement from the city, the commission is responsible for reviewing and revising the City Charter to ensure it complies with all applicable state and federal laws and meets the needs of Northfield residents. The commission meets the second Thursday of every odd-numbered month at City Hall.
The commission has seven voting members. Under state statute, each member serves a four-year term. Members are not paid.
Any registered voter in Northfield may apply, and the city said applicants should include a resume with their application. Holding another elected or appointed office does not disqualify a person from serving on the commission, with the exception of judicial office.
Unlike most city advisory boards, Charter Commission members are not appointed by the City Council. The city said the commission’s chairperson will oversee the process of receiving applications, verifying each applicant’s eligibility and forwarding qualified applications to the chief judge of Minnesota’s Third Judicial District Court, who will make the appointment.
Once appointed, the new member must file an acceptance and oath of office with the court administrator within 30 days of the appointment order. The city said anyone who fails to meet that deadline will be considered to have resigned.
The City Charter establishes how Northfield’s government is structured and operates, and changes to the document go through the commission. Residents interested in the position can find application information through the city of Northfield.
Rich Larson is the owner and General manager of KYMN Radio. Contact him at rich@kymnradio.net
