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BACKGROUND On a number of occasions Mr. Fred Norman has approached the City Council requesting consideration of a new commission that would focus on nurturing the concepts of peace and non-violence. Mr. Norman indicates the commission would focus on developing an environment of tolerance, non-violence, peaceful issue resolution, military veteran well being, and social justice. These concepts could be promoted through a range of vehicles including lectures, writing contests, parades, social events, seminars and community interaction. The commission would work to build strong relationships with the schools, military veterans groups, non-profits and the community overall. Mr. Norman has indicated that the focus of such a commission would not be related to his anti-war stance or broader politically divisive national issues. Rather, it would be centered on developing an anti-violence and peace related focus on the local level. In response to Mr. Norman's request, the City Council directed staff to research the matter and provide a number of alternatives for consideration. DISCUSSION Staff has researched a number of options and has developed five for consideration. A summary of these are detailed below. Option 1 — Create a City Commission similar in standing with other City Commissions Summary- A "peace commission" would have an enabling resolution or ordinance that sets forth its duties, membership, membership terms, organization, etc. Consistent with other commissions, it would include five to seven members (but could be more) appointed by the mayor and approved by the City Council for four year terms. The commission would meet on a regular schedule, most likely monthly, but a schedule that has less frequent meetings would also be acceptable. Membership could include all members at-large or members from various disciplines including education, veterans, non profits, etc. The commission would include a staff liaison that would provide administrative support including agenda preparation and distribution, research, agenda report preparation, public noticing, and other types of support as determined by the commission's goals and charter. Simillar to other City commissions, it would meet in a city building, be open to the public and be subject to the Brown Act and other legal requirements related to official city commissions. Finally, like other City commissions, its main focus would be to advise the City Council on a range of issues and as such, it anticipates active City Council involvement, direction, interaction and support. Page 2 of 6