“This is a critical time for Colfax,” says city Planning Director Gary Price.

With the city updating its general plan for growth over the next 20 years, the planning commission has an especially vital role to play, he explained.

Unfortunately, the five-member commission is down to just two members –– Rick Anzelc and Dave Ackerman –– and alternate Ben Roberts.

All three must attend tonight’s planning commission meeting at 7 p.m. at the railroad depot in order to have the quorum necessary to conduct business.

On the agenda is a public hearing on an application from David Gard to expand RV storage at 1454 Canyon Way.

Also slated for discussion are status reports on the citywide general plan, the housing element of the general plan and the downtown master plan.

Recently appointed planning commissioner Lynn Tausch quietly resigned her post in a letter dated Dec. 4.

Citing her extensive involvement with real estate and property management in Colfax, Tausch wrote, “I concluded I would have to excuse myself from too many areas of the town to be able to make a significant contribution to the planning processes.”

Nevertheless, she promised to continue to attend planning hearings and participate as a member of the public.

The city is actively seeking applicants for appointment to the planning commission, Price reported. “We need people to apply.”

At least three members of the commission must be residents of the city. Business owners are also eligible to serve, he said.

Applications are available at city hall or by e-mail. Price can be contacted at 346-2313 or colfaxprice@foothill.net for more information

Price also noted that an important community meeting on the downtown master plan is scheduled for 7 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 20, at the Sierra Vista Community Center.