In the heart of Brentwood's city hall, the City Commission convened on May 22, 2025, to address pressing community matters, including the formation of a new advisory board and the process for filling a city commissioner vacancy. The atmosphere was charged with anticipation as commissioners discussed the composition and responsibilities of a proposed memorial committee aimed at honoring local veterans.

The committee is set to include eight members: six residents from Greenwood, one city commissioner, and one member from the historic commission. Applications for this committee will be accepted from May 28 to June 12, with selections scheduled for June 23. The committee's role will encompass gathering input from veterans and local organizations, developing a memorial plan, and exploring funding strategies. The commission expressed a desire to have the project completed by the end of 2026, emphasizing the importance of community involvement in the planning stages.

As the discussion shifted, the commissioners turned their attention to the process for filling a vacancy left by the recent passing of Commissioner McMillan. The charter allows for a 90-day window to appoint a replacement, with the option for a special election if the vacancy is not filled within that timeframe. The cost of a special election was noted to be around $50,000, a significant consideration for the commission. Some members voiced their preference for appointing an experienced candidate rather than holding an election, citing the learning curve associated with the role of a city commissioner.

The meeting also touched on various board appointments, including the Environmental Advisory Board and the Planning Commission. Commissioners expressed their interests in these roles, with discussions about the historical processes for appointments and the importance of ensuring that new members are well-prepared to contribute effectively.

As the meeting drew to a close, the commissioners agreed to revisit the topics of the memorial committee and the commissioner vacancy in future briefings, ensuring that the community's needs and voices remain at the forefront of their decision-making. The commitment to transparency and community engagement was palpable, leaving attendees with a sense of hope for the future of Brentwood.