SANDPOINT — New appointees to city commissions, advisory committees and boards were a hot topic at Wednesday's City Council meeting as the subjects of transparency and diversity surged to the forefront.

“I haven’t seen any advertising for these new appointments," said Councilman Bob Camp. "I think the city should look at this as far as the diversity and transparency to advertise before we come to a decision on the appointments.”

Camp was verbalizing both his own point of view and that of Sandpoint resident Helen Newton, former city clerk and long-time activist. In an April 29 letter to Mayor Shelby Rognstad, City Administrator Jennifer Stapleton and members of the City Council, Newton referred specifically to the Sandpoint Urban Renewal Agency.

"Although I find nothing in the city’s code or Idaho Code regarding residency requirements to serve on this agency, it seems to me to be important that city residents have a stronger voice in assigning where these dollars work," Newton wrote. "As the agency now stands, Paull ... Qualls and Perry are all non-city residents. Grimm would be a fourth non-city resident."

Jeremy Grimm, former city planner and current SURA member, was one of those up for re-approval by the counsel.

"In a city of 7,000 people, there are surely a number of persons qualified to serve," Newton said.

Camp agreed, suggesting that appointments represent greater input from Sandpoint residents. He also pointed out the need for gender balance on the council itself. Currently just two of the nine members are women.

"Helen posted 20 names of women she thinks would qualify for a city council position to create more diversity," he said.

"I would like to suggest that we improve the advertising process," said Councilwoman Shannon Williamson. "I would also like to suggest that we establish a gender equality policy and that we discuss in the future how we can do that."

"In many ways I agree with Mr. Camp," said Councilwoman Deb Ruehle. "I don’t think we do a very good job of getting the notices out to the public. I hope in the future we can do better.” 

Councilman Stephen Sneddon made a motion to approve all five people on the appointments list. All council members but Camp voted yes.