GOVERNMENTAL REVIEW COUNCIL
POLICY AND PROCEDURES
(Updated 1/6/06)

I. Mission Statement

To identify and analyze issues impacting Bakersfield and the business  community; take advocacy positions on those issues, and communicate the  Council’s viewpoint to the Board of Directors.
II. Policy Statement (Guidelines)
To review any proposed legislation or issue which might have ramifications for local businesses.  The evaluation shall also take into account prior Chamber positions adopted by its Board of Directors.  To make recommendations, where appropriate, to the Board of Directors for purposes of establishing official Chamber positions.
III. Composition
 The council shall consist of 24 voting members representing different areas of expertise.  Along with voting members, the council will consist of up to 7 “governmental monitor” positions (these positions will not have voting rights) to serve in the capacity of advisors and informational source.  In the event that a council member is duly appointed to serve in the capacity of Chairman of the council during the last year of his/her second term, the number of council members will increase for the period of years needed to rotate said person off the council following their having held the position of “Immediate Past Chairman” of the council. The council is open to all Chamber members in good standing.
Consideration for Membership
Prospective council members can apply for openings of the council by notifying the Chamber office or Committee Chair. The GRC chair will select a membership nominating committee who in turn will recommend to the council prospective candidates to fill specific categories for committee approval.  New council members must be approved by the Greater Bakersfield Chambers of Commerce Board of Directors. 
Terms of Office
Council members will serve a 3-year term not to exceed six years in concurrent terms.  After six years of service a voting member will become a non-voting member and must stay in that capacity for one year before applying for an opening as a voting member. Not more than one third of the council will be replaced every year to allow for continuity within the membership.
IV. Attendance
The Governmental Review Council meets Fridays at 7:30 a.m. at the Chamber of Commerce Office.  If a council member accumulates more than 8 unexcused absences a year, the member will be replaced on said council.  An unexcused absence will be charged to members if notification to chair or staff is not made.
V. Minutes
Minutes shall be kept of all GRC meetings by an assigned staff person and all recommendations shall be in writing.
VI. Quorum
A quorum will consist of those voting members in attendance at any regularly scheduled meeting.