Great article, thank you Nick.  One thing, Tilker was first appointed by Mufi, and reappointed by Caldwell. Thompson didn't seem to be talking about union representation but rather the racial makeup of the majority of Caldwell's appointments. Having an activist as a commissioner, one with a personal agenda is not a good idea. This could lead to a biased and unfair slant. The mayor, who ever holds that position, doesn't want the controversy in the public portion of the meetings because it could reflect on him.  Thus "dirty laundry" is only aired in the private executive session behind closed doors. This is a great disservice to the community and should be open to the public. Transparency is essential to good and responsible government, and is extremely lacking in this City and this State.