22.027 A Resolution to Form a Select Committee to Study Barriers to Service w-correctionCity of Northampton
Massachusetts
In the City Council, February 3, 2022
Upon the Recommendation of Councilor Karen Foster and Councilor James Nash
R-22.027 A Resolution to Form a Select Committee to Study Barriers to Service on City Boards and Commissions
WHEREAS, the City of Northampton currently has 23 boards and commissions, with opportunities for 188 residents to serve, and
WHEREAS, City leadership recognizes that many residents of Northampton experience structural barriers to participation in civic life, such as lack of financial resources, adequate transportation,
adequate technology and internet, and lack of childcare, and
WHEREAS service on boards and commissions is an opportunity for residents to make a meaningful contribution to the City of Northampton, performing critical advisory and quasi-judicial
roles, and
WHEREAS, promoting structures that facilitate representation on city boards and commissions from residents who have historically been marginalized from participation would lend new,
diverse, and important voices to city boards and commissions, and
WHEREAS, many residents interested in serving on city boards and commissions may need supports, such as mentorship, financial support, technical or technological support, and training
in order to serve, and
NOW THEREFORE BE IT ORDERED, that the City Council of Northampton requests that the Council President appoint a select committee to study barriers to service on city boards and committees
and opportunities for the City to work with residents to overcome those barriers. This Committee shall present findings and recommendations for change to City Council on or before the
October 20, 2022 City Council meeting. The committee shall be comprised of:
2 current elected officials
3 resident volunteer members of city boards or commissions, and
2 residents who have never or who are not currently serving on a city board or commission