Title
Review of Policy Amendments for Public Comments and Decorum during City Council Meetings
Summary
COUNCIL GOAL: Direction for Strategic & Economic Growth
(1E: Increase community involvement and participation within local government / community) | Operational Excellence
(2E: Continuously provide a high level of customer service to our citizens)
MEETING DATE: August 18, 2020
DEPARTMENT: City Secretary
City Attorney
CONTACT: Empress Drane, City Secretary
Mark Houser, City Attorney
COUNCIL SPONSORS: Mayor Pro Tem Rainey Rogers
Council Member Frederick Frazier
RECOMMENDED CITY COUNCIL ACTION:
• Approve Amended Policy during August 18, 2020 City Council Regular Meeting
ITEM SUMMARY:
• This Policy Amendment for Public Comments and Decorum will further clarify procedures for citizens to address City Council during public meetings, including the process for requesting to speak, the process for providing visual aids, and the documentation of public comments.
BACKGROUND INFORMATION:
• At the October 1, 2018 work session, City Council provided direction on establishing policy related to public comments and information submitted by citizens during public comments.
• At the September 17, 2019 work session, City Staff provided an update on House Bill 2840, an addition to the Texas Open Meetings Act regarding Public Testimony during open meetings
• On February 18, 2020, the City Council adopted a Public Comment Policy to provide clarity for those wishing to speak at public meetings.
• During the July 28, 2020 City Council Special Meeting, the City Council instructed staff to evaluate updates to the Decorum Procedures for citizens. In addition, updates to public comments procedures are necessary as a result of the City’s COVID-19 response.
FINANCIAL SUMMARY:
• N/A
BOARD OR COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION:
• N/A