Agenda Item Wording:
title
Planning Commission reappointments and recruitment process confirmation - Recommendation to reappoint Mary Beatie, Kris Bruce, and Charlie Norman and confirm recruitment process for a pending vacancy.
body
Agenda Date: 06/15/2026
Prepared by:
Reyna Rivera, Chief Deputy City Clerk Reyna.Rivera@visalia.gov, (559) 713-4512;
Leslie B. Caviglia, City Manager, Leslie.Caviglia@visalia.gov, (559) 713-4332
Department Recommendation: It is recommended that the Visalia City Council reappoint Kris Bruce to serve her first full term on the Planning Commission, Charlie Norman to serve a second term, and Mary Beatie to serve a fourth term. The terms would commence on July 1, 2026, and expire on June 30, 2028.
However, Mr. Norman has submitted his resignation effective upon the appointment of his successor. Therefore, staff also recommends that the City Council confirm the current recruitment process to fill the forthcoming vacancy on the Planning Commission.
Summary:
Ms. Beatie, Ms. Bruce, and Mr. Norman have been engaged Commissioners with strong attendance records. As the City prepares to undertake a General Plan update in the coming year, retaining Commissioners with planning experience and community knowledge will provide valuable continuity and perspective. While some transition is expected during the General Plan process, maintaining experienced Commissioners through the majority of the update will help support informed discussion and consideration of the complex issues associated with a comprehensive General Plan update.
As noted above, Mr. Norman has submitted his resignation, effective upon the appointment of his successor. Staff is therefore recommending his reappointment with the understanding that he will continue serving until a replacement is appointed and available to attend meetings, helping to ensure the Commission maintains a quorum and continuity of operations.
Staff has initiated a recruitment process to fill the forthc...
Click here for full text