The bill amends sections of the Code of West Virginia to establish stricter residency requirements for members of municipal, county, and other planning commissions. Specifically, it mandates that members must be residents of West Virginia for at least three years prior to their appointment and must also reside in the specific municipality or county for at least one year before their appointment. Additionally, members of multicounty, regional, and joint planning commissions must have resided in the relevant jurisdiction for at least three years. The bill also stipulates that any member who does not meet these residency requirements cannot remain on the planning commission.

Furthermore, the bill includes provisions that allow individuals with business interests that regularly interact with planning commission staff to serve on these commissions, provided they recuse themselves from any discussions or votes related to their business. The legislation also outlines the composition of planning commissions, ensuring diverse representation from various sectors, and establishes procedures for the removal of members for inactivity or malfeasance. Overall, the bill aims to enhance the accountability and effectiveness of planning commissions in West Virginia by ensuring that their members have a strong local connection and relevant expertise.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 7-12-3, 7-12-3a, 7-12-4
Committee Substitute: 8A-2-3, 8A-2-4, 8A-2-5
Enrolled Committee Substitute: 8A-2-3, 8A-2-4, 8A-2-5