Item 37 - Consider Amending City Council Meetings Rules and Procedures

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City Council Meetings Rules and Procedures July 18, 2023 Page 3 of teleconferencing location included on agenda, posting of agenda at teleconference location which shall be open and accessible to members of the public, but no requirement for individual teleconferencing capabilities by members of the public. (Exhibit 2) 2) Adopt a policy that also provides City Councilmembers the ability to participate in meetings remotely under the provisions of AB 2449 for Just Cause/Emergency Provisions (effective through January 1, 2026) including, but not limited to, notification at the earliest opportunity, limited use of provision, disclosures of other adults present, use of both audio and visual technology, and public comment via the teleconferencing platform in real time. (Exhibit 3) Use of Zoom for Public Participation Prior to the declared State of Emergency related to COVID-19, City Council meetings were held in the Council Chamber with in -person participation by members of the City Council and members of the public who wished to address the City Council. City Council meetings were live -streamed to the internet and broadcast on the City's cable television channel for public viewing. During the declared State of Emergency and to provide for the health and safety of all participants, the City implemented Zoom/teleconference participation, in addition to the live -streaming and broadcasting, for both members of the City Council and for members of the public wishing to address the City Council. Governor Newsom ended the declared State of Emergency related to COVID-19 effective February 28, 2023 and the City Council terminated the proclamation of a local emergency regarding the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic on April 18, 2023. Since that time, the City has continued to allow remote public participation in City Council meetings as a matter of convenience to the public and not under any legal requirement. Staff seeks direction from the City Council regarding continuing to allow remote public participation in City Council meetings or discontinuing the use of remote public participation. Members of the public would continue to have the ability to attend City Council meetings in person, submit written correspondence, and view meetings via the internet/cable television. FISCAL IMPACT There is no financial impact association with this action. EXHIBIT(S) 1. Resolution Amending Rules and Procedures 2. Teleconferencing Policy without provisions of AB 2449 3. Teleconferencing Policy including provisions of AB 2449 4. Resolution No. 2013-019 (existing resolution amending rules and procedures)