KISSIMMEE, Fla. – Kissimmee City Commissioners are discussing background checks and term limits for the city’s governing body.
Currently, commissioners are limited to two consecutive four-year terms. Tonight, the commission is set to vote on adding a charter amendment to the August ballot that would allow commissioners to serve three terms. If the city commission approves the second readings of this ordinance, this change, if approved by voters, would set term limits at three consecutive four-year terms.
Crystal Sanders supports the idea and feels it could help push policy forward.
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“I think it could be good, because sometimes it takes a couple of years for permits and plans to get finalized. And then with a reelection, if that board member, committee member is no longer on it, it’s kind of difficult to continue those plans and it could get changed up,” she said.
If voters approve the amendment, it would take effect immediately, allowing current commissioners to serve three terms.
Rebecca Sanchez is not on board with a potential term limit extension.
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“I think it’s massive and unfair to other people that might have the same qualities, or even better than someone else,” she told News 6.
The second charter amendment under consideration would require background checks for all candidates running for a commission seat, promoting what officials call a “commitment to transparency.”
“We should have an idea of who’s running the town, including their background checks,” Sanders said.
Though criminal histories are public record and the cost of background checks would fall on taxpayers, many community members remain in favor.
“Like, you should want to know who’s giving you orders or making rules,” Sanchez added.
Under the proposed amendment, each candidate would be required to consent to a background check for the purpose of verifying the candidate’s qualifications to hold office. According to the city, no candidate would be disqualified from running for office without prior notice, an opportunity for a hearing, and clear and convincing evidence that the candidate does not meet the qualifications to hold office.
In addition to these amendments, commissioners will vote on strengthening smoking restrictions in the city.
If approved, smoking and vaping would be prohibited in public parks, and those who do not comply could be asked to leave city-owned property.
The commission meeting is at 6 p.m.