REPORT TO GOVERNANCE AND ETHICS COMMITTEE
SUBJECT
Title
Discussion and Possible Action on Updates to Council Policy 042 ("Reconsideration of Council Action")
Report
BACKGROUND
The stated purpose of Council Policy 042 titled "Reconsideration of Council Action" is to establish a clear and effective process for members of the City Council and the public to request reconsideration of a Council action. The current policy was last revised on October 27, 2020, by Resolution No. 20-8896 (Attachment A).
The Governance and Ethics Committee members have referred this policy for further discussion and review, including consideration and clarification of the definition of a "prevailing party". As part of the Committee referral, this item is on the agenda for review and discussion.
DISCUSSION
The following is a summary of the notable provisions of the current Council Policy 042 ("Reconsideration of Council Action"):
Request/Motion for Reconsideration
1. A request for reconsideration may be made by any person at the same meeting at which the action was taken (including an adjourned or continued meeting), at the next regular meeting of the City Council, or at any intervening special meeting of the City Council.
2. The person making the request should state orally or in writing the reason for the request, without dwelling on the specific details or setting forth various arguments.
3. A motion to reconsider an action taken by the City Council can be made only by a Councilmember who voted on the prevailing side, but may be seconded by any Councilmember, and is debatable. At the time such motion for reconsideration is heard, testimony shall be limited to the facts giving rise to the motion.
4. The motion must be approved by a majority vote of the entire City Council. Four votes (majority of the seven-seat Council) are required for the motion to carry.
Reconsideration of Any Council Action
1. A motion to reconsider an action taken by the City Council must be made ...
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