Farmville Town Council’s unanimous decision to change the makeup of its planning commission is a good change, in my book.

There’s nothing like a good old shout of “taxation without representation” — or, in this case, “planning without representation” — to get people’s attention. I applaud the entire council, especially Mayor David Whitus and Councilman J.J. “Jamie” Davis, along with Town Manager Gerald Spates.

The idea of any governmental entity not representing three-fifths of town was pretty shocking. The small city I moved from had a council where each member held an at-large seat. It was considered fair — kind of a “one for all, all for one” mentality — but it also meant there could be times when people in certain parts of town weren’t represented, although I don’t think it ever happened.

Planning commissioners aren’t elected, but those we elect appoint them. Here, we elect council members in wards, making sure each part of town is represented.

Those council members, in turn, should ensure their commissions reflect the same representative equality.

Furthermore — with absolutely no disrespect to Spates or at-large Councilman Dan Dwyer — I’ve also been skittish of those in elected office or already appointed to a government function serving on commissions.

Commissions, in my opinion, while appointed by and serving at the pleasure of, council, should be otherwise independent of them. They should also represent the interests of the entire town — a diversity of people with a variety of personal and professional backgrounds.

At the same time, in this case, you also want people who understand the necessary legal, architectural and design minutia while being highly mindful of the town’s history to make decisions impacting the look and feel of the community.

The good news is council made the right decision.

Here’s hoping it makes a positive impact on the town’s future planning efforts.

Martin L. Cahn is the managing editor of The Farmville Herald. His email address is martin.cahn@farmvilleherald.com.