Five Questions With Ben Vinson, Chair, Brookhaven Commission

Editor's Note: On Aug. 31, . Ben Vinson, an attorney at McKenna, Long & Aldridge, chairs the group of volunteers before the mayor and city council take office.

1. What will be the commission's first task or set of tasks?

Vinson: Establish a regular meeting schedule and location so the public is aware and can attend. Devise a system of committees to research and make recommendations on the primary aspects of the city (location of city hall, key staff positions, plan for service delivery). Involve commission members and citizens with the committees. Eventually produce a written report with recommendations on each aspect from the committees and the commission.

2. How often will the commission meet?

Vinson: Weekly or biweekly, depending on need.

3. Will the commission meet in public or private, or a combination of both?

Vinson: The full commission will always meet in public and provide notice of same.

4. All of the races have crowded fields of candidates, meaning that runoffs are almost inevitable after the Nov. 6 election. Does that put even more pressure on the commission

Vinson: The commission will aim to complete its work by Nov 6, so the possibility of runoffs will not necessarily add more time pressure for now. But there might be added importance to the role of the commission should several council seats and the mayor’s race go into a runoff. We are prepared to continue work as needed and assist with transition to mayor and council.

5. What role will the commission play after the city officially begins operations on Dec. 17, 2012?

Vinson: When mayor and council take office the commission by law will cease to exist. I predict each commission member will be willing to provide explanation and assistance as desired by mayor and council in the future, but technically our role will end when the city officially begins.