Agenda Item Wording:
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Planning Commissioner Interviews - Conduct interviews and appoint one applicant to fill the upcoming Planning Commission vacancy for the unexpired term ending June 30, 2027, or reopen the recruitment process.
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Agenda Date: 03/18/2026
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 conduct interviews to fill an upcoming vacancy for the Visalia Planning Commission with an unexpired term ending on June 30, 2027, or reopen the recruitment process. Any appointment made for the unexpired term should be effective March 24, 2026.
Summary:
The City Council has received the resignation of Commissioner William Davis effective March 24, 2026. A recruitment was held, and there are seven applicants for the position. Council will conduct interviews, and appoint one applicant to fill the resulting vacancy on the Visalia Planning Commission for the remainder of a term ending June 30, 2027, or the Council could choose to reopen the recruitment.
This appointment is important as the City prepares to undertake a comprehensive General Plan update process. Maintaining a full Planning Commission will support continuity and effective decision-making during this process.
Background Discussion:
Pursuant to Article XIII, Section 1 of the Visalia City Charter, the City Council may establish a Planning Commission consisting of five members who serve without compensation. The Commission is granted powers and duties as determined by the Council, specifically related to city planning matters.
According to Visalia Municipal Code Section 2.16.020, vacancies on the Planning Commission must be filled by the Council and are to be filled only for the remainder of the unexpired term. Commissioners must also be United States citizens and residents of the City o...
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