Santa Maria Sun / News

City seeks applications for planning commission after Moats resigns

BY AMY ASMAN

Much like Santa Maria’s City Council, the Planning Commission is also undergoing some changes in leadership.

AUF WIEDERSEHEN: Santa Maria Planning Commissioner Michael Moats resigned from his position on Feb. 20. The city is currently accepting applications to fill the vacancy made by Moats and another two-year term to be nominated by council member Willie Green in March. FILE PHOTO

Planning Commissioner and local dermatologist Michael Moats announced his resignation from the commission after its Feb. 20 meeting. In a letter to the city, Moats said it was time for him to focus on his private practice, Moats Laser & Skin Care, which he said is “becoming more demanding.”

In response to Moats’ unexpected departure, the city is accepting applications for a four-year term on the commission until March 21 at 5 p.m. Applications are also being accepted for a two-year term, which opened up when Alice Patino made the transition from council member to mayor. Newly appointed City Council member Willie Green is expected to make a nomination for the Planning Commission on March 5. Appointments for both positions will be made in early April.

“Each council member has the ability to appoint a planning commissioner when they are elected or appointed,” Chief Deputy City Clerk Rhonda Garietz told the Sun.

Green can choose either to reappoint commissioner Etta Waterfield—Patino’s pick when she was a council member—or to nominate someone else.

The five-member Planning Commission advises the City Council on planning and development matters and implements planning policies adopted by the council.

Applications are available online at ci.santa-maria.ca.us/202.shmtl or at the City Clerk’s Office, Santa Maria City Hall, 110 E. Cook St.

For more information, call the City Clerk’s Office at 925-0951, Ext 307.