Background
The governing bodies of many localities throughout the Commonwealth of Virginia have standing committees as part of their legislative process (e.g. public safety, health, etc.). Key issues are presented to the committee before coming to the whole governing body, allowing for more opportunities for deliberation and engagement. Additionally, committees are often empowered to hold hearings to gather information, specialize in specific areas, and incorporate early feedback from the public.
Purpose
This sub-committee will help the Council engage in a more detailed examination of the feasibility and potential process for transitioning to a standing committee structure. Some questions this sub-committee might explore include:
- Why do we have our current structure? Why the current system?
- How would standing committees function?
- What benefits would a standing committee structure offer?
- What concerns/questions does the standing committee structure raise?
- Would current advisory boards/commissions need to be realigned or changed? If so, how?
- How would a standing committee model impact staff?
- What standing committees would be created?
Timeline
This sub-committee would have 1 year to gather research, feedback and community input before presenting a proposal to the full Council on whether to proceed.
Action Required
The City Council must hold a vote on the record, either by motion or resolution, to establish this sub-committee’s authority so that new members can be appointed in January.
Meeting Materials
MEETINGS
- November 17, 2025
Agenda | Presentation | Minutes
- May 7, 2025
Agenda | Presentation |Minutes
- April 9, 2025
Agenda | Presentation | Minutes
- March 27, 2025
Agenda | Presentation | Minutes
- February 19, 2025