There is hereby established a Plan Commission for the city, to promote the orderly development of its governmental units and environs and for the purpose of improving the present health, safety, convenience and welfare of the citizens of the city, to the end that highway systems be carefully planned, that new community centers grow only with adequate highways, utilities, health, educational and recreational facilities, that the needs of agriculture, industry and businesses be recognized in future growth, that residential areas provide healthy surroundings for family life, and that growth of the city is commensurate with and promotive of the efficient and economical use of public funds. The Plan Commission shall serve in an advisory capacity to the City Executive of the city and shall have such regulatory power affecting the public welfare of the citizens of the city as are not otherwise controlled, and such other power as may from time to time be granted to carry out the purpose of this chapter.

(Ord. 5-2002, passed 3-4-02)

   The Plan Commission shall consist of nine members as follows:

   (A)   One member appointed by the Council from its membership.

   (B)   One member appointed by the Board of Works.

   (C)   Five citizen members, appointed by the Mayor, of whom no more than three may be of the same political party and all five must live in the incorporated area.

   (D)   Two members appointed by County Commissioners from the unincorporated area. The citizens must be of opposite political parties.

(Ord. 5-2002, passed 3-4-02)

   (A)   At the first meeting each calendar year, the Commission shall elect from its members a chairperson, vice chairperson and secretary.

   (B)   Meetings shall be conducted pursuant to IC 5-14-1.5-1 et. seq. (Open Door Law).

   (C)   Meetings shall be held monthly. The Chairperson or 50% of the membership may only call special meetings.

(Ord. 5-2002, passed 3-4-02)

   To effectuate the purpose of this chapter, the Plan Commission shall have the powers and duties as outlined in IC 36-7-4-201 et seq., as amended from time to time.

(Ord. 5-2002, passed 3-4-02)