OWENSVILLE — Owensville Mayor Kevin McFadden on Sept. 3 introduced a suggestion to the Board of Aldermen aimed at improving the efficiency of city meetings: utilizing subcommittees to address complex issues outside of regular meetings to help prevent prolonged discussions from stalling city business.

His plan involves city officials volunteering to meet in smaller groups to consult on various topics before they are presented to the full board.

“Major topics” — such as the ongoing debate over the establishment of the Owensville Fire Protection District — would benefit from this format, McFadden explained, noting that a “reasonable conclusion” could not have been reached during a previous meeting.

The mayor described these subcommittees as consisting of two city representatives and, when necessary, two representatives from the “other side” of the issue. He suggests after the two parties “hash out the details,” they raise any concerns to City Administrator Randy Blaske, City Clerk Peggy Farrell or McFadden himself with final discussion to occur at city meetings.

McFadden believes the subcommittee approach would make decision-making more “effective and efficient.”

However, not all board members were sold on the idea.

Ward 1 Alderman Danny Breeden questioned how the process would unfold, and whether individuals passionate about the topics would be included in the detailed conversations.

Blaske additionally advised that the two longest running topics in unfinished business both had subcommittees.

All aldermen were in favor of McFadden asking for volunteers in the future, with the exception of Breeden.