REPORT TO COUNCIL
SUBJECT
Title
Action on Removal of Commissioner Jennifer Garcia-Vega from the Cultural Commission and Declare a Vacancy
Report
COUNCIL PILLAR
Enhance Community Engagement and Transparency
BACKGROUND
The Cultural Commission is a seven-member body, appointed by the City Council, that is primarily responsible that acts in an advisory capacity to the City Council in matters pertaining to the enhancement of multi-cultural experiences and beautification of the City through art. The Commission makes recommendations to the City Council on programs/activities to encourage educational, cultural, sports, technical and governmental exchanges to help acquaint citizens of Santa Clara with cultural diversity here and abroad.
The Commission organizes cultural events, concerts, activities and displays that builds community and celebrates the City's native, historic cultures, and present-day diversity. The Commission may make recommendations to the City Council on the purchase and placement of public art that represents the City's rich history and culture.
Regular attendance at commission meetings is important for the effectiveness of the Commission. Section 1004 of the City Charter states that:
"If a member of a board or commission absents himself/herself from three regular meetings of such board or commission, consecutively, unless with permission of such board or commission expressed in its official minutes, or is convicted of a crime involving moral turpitude, or ceases to be a qualified elector of the City, his/her office shall be vacant and shall be so declared by the City Council."
The City Charter sets the standard of three consecutive absences, if unexcused by the Commission, as cause for removal of an appointee of the Cultural Commission by the City Council.
DISCUSSION
Commissioner Jennifer Garcia-Vega was appointed on May 24, 2021 to the Cultural Commission to serve a four-year term ending June 30, 2025.
Commissioner Garcia-Vega has missed m...
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