With the exception of the Planning Commission, Commissions and Boards make recommendations to the City Council, which has the final decision making responsibility. Subject to appeal to the City Council, the Planning Commission has the authority to approve, modify, or disapprove Conditional Use Permits and Zoning Variances that meet specified criteria. The City is also seeking applicants for the Police Community Advisory Committee. The Police Community Advisory Committee makes recommendations to the Police Chief. At the time of appointment and continuously during their terms of office, Commissioners must live within City limits and be eligible to vote in Salinas municipal elections.
Commissioners serve until successors are appointed.
The Mayor and each Councilmember appoints a representative from the City at-large. Residency within the appointing Councilmember's district is not required, although preference may be given to applicants from within the district. Commissioners must be able to attend meetings regularly and commit time as necessary to be able to make informed decisions on issues coming before them. Commisioners spend an average of two to three hours at each meeting and one to four hours preparing for the meeting. The Affirmative Action Commission promotes the comprehensive and adequate implementation of the City's Affirmative Action Plan and programs.