Questions raised about transparency of commission appointments

(6/1) At the May 24 Town Council meeting, Commissioner Betsey Brannen voiced concerns regarding the lack of transparency surrounding individual commission appointments. Brannen, who was elected by town residents in April and sworn in by Burgess Weddle on May 10, serves as the newest member of the Town Council. She raised these questions during the swearing-in of two new commission members, Jeremy Peterson (Parks) and Mark Pecor (Planning).

Jeremy Peterson, who was touted by Burgess Weddle as having a significant leadership background in the fire and rescue service, received one "no" vote to his appointment from Commissioner Brannen. Brannen expressed her struggle to support an appointment without sufficient knowledge about other candidates, who are usually nominated and chosen by the Burgess. Brannen asked, "Why are we not more transparent as to how this process works?"

In response, Burgess Weddle compared the appointment process to those at the federal and state government levels. He stated that the commission appointments were among the few executive responsibilities he possessed.

Brannen suggested that at the very least, individuals who were not chosen for appointments should be notified, a step she believes would help build trust between the community and town government. The Burgess responded that the Town does notify individuals, but only after the official appointment and swearing-in has occurred. However, town resident Shannon Kelly still echoed Brannen’s sentiment during public comment.

In addition to Jeremy Peterson, Mark Pecor was also appointed to the Parks Commission, with Brannen again casting the lone dissenting vote. Burgess Weddle commended Pecor for his community service in law enforcement, representing an area of the Town that was not adequately represented on the commission. Weddle also noted Pecor's active involvement in the GVAA.

Brannen emphasized that her concerns were not specific to Peterson’s and Pecor’s appointments, underscoring the need to address an area in town government which could be improved to enhance confidence in town leaders.

It remains to be seen how the Council will respond to Commissioner Brannen's concerns, but her efforts to initiate a discussion on this matter seem indicative of the growing importance of transparency in local governance and decision-making. As town residents continue to engage with their elected officials, the issue of commission appointments is likely to remain a subject of public interest and scrutiny.