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I think the idea is that they want 'citizenry' involvement. But now that I understand what you're saying, I agree with what you meant by 'the part time character'. (It sounded originally like you thought they should be full time ... hence why I was pointing out that these are volunteer positions ... And having them be full-time would be even harder.)

I agree it's hard for most of us 9 - 5 types to volunteer our time for these boards. (I know I couldn't.) But I wouldn't necessarily call those who can do it 'elites'. They just aren't in 9 -5 jobs. That's all. They could be retirees or they could be professionals ... especially professions whose work co-incides with the subject matters at hand. Professionals are expected to do what is called 'give back' to the community by volunteering their skills. It's good for the community and good for the professional.

So, for example, the architects who serve on the HPRB will not only be doing good for the community, but building their resume and their contacts lists ... which will result in more jobs ... and income. Ditto someone who maybe works as a city planner might want to volunteer their time to the BZA.

Now, what to us would be 'having to take a vacation day' is for them just another day at work ... doing what they normally do but just doing it for free ... and hoping that the 'name' they build in doing it, or maybe the experience they gain, or the contacts they make, results in compensating (or more) 'business' or 'promotions' or maybe just 'self satisfaction.'

by Lance on Feb 11, 2011 5:51 pm • link • report