Chapter 2.54
SISTER CITIES COMMISSION

Sections:

2.54.010    Created – Objective.

2.54.020    Membership.

2.54.030    Meetings – Rules.

2.54.040    Duties and responsibilities.

2.54.010 Created – Objective.

As of September 1, 2007, there is created a Sister Cities Commission. The objective of the Sister Cities Commission is to increase the knowledge, goodwill, and understanding of the world through people-to-people diplomacy, education, cultural exchanges, economic exchanges, and humanitarian assistance. (Ord. 2499 § 1, 2007).

2.54.020 Membership.

A. Qualifications. The selection of Sister City Commission members shall be made from individuals who have an interest in arts and cultural exchange, economic development, education, business, and youth by training, experience or actions. City residency is preferred, but not required; provided, however, a majority of the members shall be residents of the City of Issaquah.

B. Number of Members – Terms. The Commission shall consist of 9 members, each of whom shall be appointed for a term of 4 years. Terms shall expire the first day of May of each appropriate year. Initial terms shall be staggered as follows:

Two positions expiring May 1, 2008

Two positions expiring May 1, 2009

Two positions expiring May 1, 2010

Three positions expiring May 1, 2011

After expiration of the initial terms, subsequent appointees shall serve a regular 4-year term.

C. Alternate Members. Up to 2 alternate members shall be appointed to serve in the absence of regular members. Alternates shall be selected by using the same qualifications specified under subsection A of this section. Alternate members shall serve for terms of 2 years. Initial terms shall be staggered as follows:

One position expiring May 1, 2008

One position expiring May 1, 2009

After expiration of the initial terms, subsequent alternate appointees shall serve a 2-year term.

D. Appointment. Member of the Commission shall be appointed by the Mayor, subject to confirmation by the City Council. The Mayor may assign representatives from 1 or more departments of the City to serve as ad hoc and nonvoting members of the Commission.

E. Removal. Members of the Commission may be removed by the Mayor, with the consent of a majority of the City Council, for neglect of duty, conflict of interest, unexcused absence from 2 consecutive regular meetings of the Commission, or for any reason deemed sufficient by a majority of the City Council. The decision of the City Council shall be final and there shall be no appeal therefrom. Members finding themselves unable to attend regular meetings are expected to tender their resignations.

F. Vacancies. Vacancies occurring other than through the expiration of terms shall be filled for the unexpired terms in the same manner as for appointments as provided in this section. (Ord. 2499 § 1, 2007).

2.54.030 Meetings – Rules.

A. The Commission shall organize and elect from its members a Chair, who shall preside at all meetings of the Commission, a Vice-Chair, and a Secretary. A majority of membership shall constitute a quorum. Action may be taken by a majority of the members present, when a quorum exists.

B. The Commission shall determine a regular meeting schedule (time, place and frequency), as necessary, and shall meet no less than once per quarter, 4 times per year. All regular meetings shall be open to the public.

C. The Commission shall adopt such by-laws, rules and regulations as are necessary for the conduct of its business as the Commission deems expedient; and shall keep a written record of its proceedings which shall be a public record. (Ord. 2499 § 1, 2007).

2.54.040 Duties and responsibilities.

The Commission shall:

A. Use its resources to build continuity, consistency and community with all interested individuals and organizations with all international relations.

B. Focus on complementing the activities of others while avoiding unnecessary duplication.

C. Seek to cooperate with others to accomplish parallel goals and to coordinate the efforts of the international community with cooperative leadership.

D. Ensure the work of the Commission represents the best efforts and interest of the City of Issaquah.

E. Adhere to all enabling legislation and provide strong leadership in other areas, the Commission will seek to expand the influence and knowledge of Issaquah as a leader in the new global community.

F. Prepare annual report and submit it to the Issaquah City Council not later than February 15th of each year. (Ord. 2499 § 1, 2007).