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Ms. Ayala appreciated participating during the interview process. She believed the Planning Commission was a very vital part of Pleasanton. She said one of the questions she asked each of the applicants was "do you consider this a political position?" Although they said no she is convinced the appointment is absolutely a political position. She also wanted to work more closely with the Planning Commission in the future. She wanted to understand better what the job of a Planning Commissioner is. She believed the duty of a Planning Commissioner is to look at the applications that come before the Commission and make sure the applications, if approved, are in compliance with the General Plan. Mr. Pico said the definition is in the Pleasanton Municipal Code and the function here tonight is not to change or modify that. The duty tonight is to ratify or not ratify the Mayor's decision. If there is any concern about the function or duty of the Planning Commissioners, or any of the Commissioners, it could be looked at later. Ms. Ayala concurred with the definitions in the Pleasanton Municipal Code. She also requested to have more workshops. Mayor Tarver believed that most of the people interviewed felt it was not a political position because they are appointed, not elected. He felt all the appointees understood their role. He hoped all would go to the Planning Commission training and orientations. He had no objections to having more workshops. Ms. Michelotti said the role of the Planning Commissioners was discussed at a joint meeting. There were divergent views from the Council. Her viewpoint is to look to the Planning Commission for its decision after it has looked and listened to all the input. The appointees would do their best and she valued their opinions. Ms. Ayala said with three brand new members she would like to have a workshop some time soon. Ms. Michelotti agreed. She felt workshops would be very beneficial. The roll call vote was as follows: AYES: Councilmembers - Ayala, Michelotti, Pico and Mayor Tarver. NOES: None ABSENT: Councilmember Dennis. ABSTAIN: None Mayor Tarver asked staff when would be a good time to have a workshop? Ms. Acosta said it probably would be two to three months before any time would be available on the Council's calendars. Mayor Tarver requested that the recommendations in the future be placed on the consent calendar. If there needed to be any discussion it could be pulled from the consent calendar. The reason is he would like to have the swearing in ceremony of all the appointments on May 5, Pleasanton City Council 20 4/21/98 Minutes