Agenda - 02-02-2021 Virtual Board Meeting; 6-d - Appointments to the BOCC Elections Advisory Group

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2 Based on direction given at that meeting, the Clerk's Office began soliciting membership applications from Orange County residents for fifteen (15) seats for the BOCC Elections Advisory Group, with appointments to be made by January 31, 2021. The Group materials noted that the purpose is to "study alternative methods/districts to elect the Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) and make a recommendation to the Board of County Commissioners." Staff advertised the application opportunity on the County website and also published two Public Service Announcements regarding the Group. The opportunity for service was also shared on WCHL radio station. An announcement also occurred at the Board's October 20, 2020 Business meeting that the County was recruiting for potential appointees to the BOCC Elections Advisory Group and that applications were available on the County Website under Board of Commissioners - Volunteer Advisory Boards & Commissions. The County has received applications from twenty-three (23) interested individuals. The applications for these individuals are attached. A vacant membership roster is also provided for reference. As part of the process establishing the Group and appointing members, a question was raised regarding a Group Chair. It has been suggested that the Board direct the Group to select Co- Chairs, with one individual from the District 1 area of the County and one individual from the District 2 area of the County. Staff requests that the Board address this topic and provide direction. Also as part of establishing the Group, another question has been raised regarding the desired outcomes from the Group. It is requested that the Board provide any further guidance regarding the framework for feedback the Group may provide. FINANCIAL IMPACT: The financial impact will be based on a contract with a facilitator for the Group meetings. SOCIAL JUSTICE IMPACT: There is no Orange County Social Justice Goal impact associated with discussing this item. ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT: There is no Orange County Environmental Responsibility Goal impact associated with discussing this topic. RECOMMENDATION(S): The Manager recommends the Board: 1) discuss the appointment of individuals to the BOCC Elections Advisory Group, and make fifteen (15) appointments as determined by the Board; 2) direct the Group to select Co-Chairs, with one individual from the District 1 area of the County and one individual from the District 2 area of the County; 3) provide any further direction on the charge to the Group as it relates to desired outcomes from the Group's work; and 4) provide any additional direction to staff.