HLC punts officer elections

Like all of the incoming commissions, the Historic Landmark Commission took up the issue of officers at its first meeting Monday. But depleted ranks on the dais mean that it will do the same in the near future. Commissioner Arif Panju suggested that commissioners hold off on electing an official chair until all the members of the commission are appointed and present. The commission is currently two members short, and at Monday’s meeting, only six of the nine appointed members were present. Commissioners Terri Myers, Michelle Trevino and Grace McKenzie were absent. After a brief discussion, Panju’s fellow commissioners unanimously appointed returning commissioner Mary Jo Gallindo as acting chair for their first meeting, and they will address the matter again at the next meeting. As Historic Preservation Officer Steve Sadowsky pointed out, “You don’t know. Whoever is appointed acting chair tonight may never want to be the chair of this commission.” Commissioners also elected Commissioner David Whitworth as acting vice chair.