(STATEHOUSE) Feb. 13, 2009 - Boards of public works and safety in some Indiana cities would be able to decide on their own whether to have three or five members under a bill authored by Rep. Cleo Duncan (R-Greensburg) and passed Thursday by the Indiana House of Representatives. The boards would have the option of having three or five members. House Bill 1042, which was passed unanimously, allows a mayor of a third-class city to determine if an additional two members should be added to the current three member board. "Mayor Gary Herbert of Greensburg came to me and asked for my help," said Rep. Duncan. "He explained to me how much of a difference this legislation would make by adding the additional two members. "Other mayors, like Mayor Herbert, also wanted to have the option to have additional board members in order to better the communication and lessen the stress." The board member positions are paid; salaries vary according to the area. "I worked to ensure HB 1042 would give cities an option and not a requirement," Rep. Duncan said. "This legislation is endorsed by the Indiana Association of Cities and Towns." Rep. Duncan encourages constituents to contact her through e-mail at h67@in.gov, by calling toll-free at 1-800-382-9841 or by writing her at the Statehouse, 200 W. Washington St., Indianapolis, IN 46204. -30-
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