BANFF – A new policy affirms the Town of Banff will strive for diversity and inclusivity in council appointments of public members to its various committees and boards.
Under the policy approved by council in May, those on a temporary work permit or those without Canadian citizenship or permanent residency will be eligible to join a board, committee, corporation or commission (BCCC) such as Municipal Planning Commission, Development Appeal Board, Banff Housing Corporation and Banff Heritage Corporation.
Town of Banff officials say they are looking for diverse community members of all backgrounds representing the Banff community.
“The proposed policy encourages diversity and inclusivity while ensuring the application process is fair, consistent and accountable,” said Chris Hughes, director of corporate services for the Town of Banff.
Administration undertook a comprehensive review by researching best practices used by other municipalities and consulting with staff responsible for the various BCCCs on any recruitment issues or concerns they have encountered.
The policy provides clarification on the process whereby public members are appointed to a BCCC.
BCCCs may provide council with recommendations for public member appointments in the form of a non-binding nomination, with the expectation that all applications will be forwarded to council for final approval. Council may or may not choose to appoint the nominee.
In addition, a BCCC may choose to interview candidates for a public seat prior to making their non-binding recommendation.
Mayor Corrie DiManno said the changes to the policy help modernize and streamline the process.
“It really does help these BCCCs become a little bit more empowered to take some responsibility for certain parts,” she said. “I like they can now conduct an interview if they wish.”
In the past, members of council have expressed a desire to be able to interview candidates for positions.
But administrative officials say members of a BCCC are in a better position to fully appreciate what qualities a member should possess.
They say council will always have the ability to be a part of the interview and nomination process through their representatives on each BCCC.
Hughes said a council may ask candidates additional questions that might not have been approved as part of the required council-approved application process.
"Council may, by resolution, approve additional supplementary questions for applicants,” he said.
