Councilmember Marilyn Balcombe has criticized the lack of geographic balance on county boards frequently. Tuesday, she took aim at the proposed slate of Library Board appointments.
Of the nine proposed members, five reside in Silver Spring and four live in Bethesda, she said. The Board members decide on book acquisitions, new library buildings, and services to outlying districts. These decisions affect residents throughout the county, including those who live Upcounty in the district she represents.
Current Library Board Representation
“Nine of 13 people from the library board are from two areas in the county, she noted. “If nine of 13 are coming from two communities, there is no room for other opinions.”
Because she did not have specific issues with any of the nominees offered by Executive Marc Elrich, Balcombe chose not to vote against the slate. Instead, she abstained. She was joined by Councilmember Kristin Mink.
However, the new members received support from a majority of the council and were confirmed.
An Ongoing Challenge
“Several times over the past three years, I’ve brought up the issue of geographic representation on lots of boards, committees and commissions,” Balcombe said during Council’s Tuesday meeting.
A task force currently is looking into the matter, but its final report has been delayed, she said.
New Board Members
The new board members are Lindsay Bouie, Wilma Brier, Sean Conlan, Grace Manubay, Kavita Mohan, Terry Romine, Marilyn Schiff and Chauna Wiggins. Only two will be new to the board. The rest are reappointments.
Library Board members serve for three years and do not receive compensation.
