REPORT TO GOVERNANCE AND ETHICS COMMITTEE
SUBJECT
Title
Review and Discussion on Council Policy 020 ("Proclamations, Commendations and Certificates of Recognition") and Council Policy 009 ("City Representation at Meetings, Ceremonies and Special Events")
Report
BACKGROUND
As part of the 2023 Governance and Ethics Committee (Committee) workplan, Council Policy 020 was scheduled to return to the December 4, 2023 Committee meeting for review. On September 5, 2023, Vice Mayor Anthony Becker brought forth the following written petition request:
"Consideration to normalize and make consistent speaking at public events and in addition, for a policy to include powers for Councilmembers to declare proclamations in their respective districts. While this is not prevented, a narrow interpretation of supported policies often leaves Councilmembers without a channel to address their constituents, even within their own districts. An inclusive policy would allow Councilmembers to address the public regardless of jurisdiction, especially within their representative districts. These interactions would be scheduled or agendize for each event and opportunity and coordinated with event planners, just like multi-jurisdictional events outside of the city. In addition, I would like this policy to also include powers for Councilmembers to declare proclamations in their respective districts."
The written petition was placed on the September 12, 2023 City Council meeting agenda. The City Council voted to bring the written petition to a future City Council meeting agenda for discussion. The item was placed on the agenda for the December 12, 2023 City Council meeting and the City Council voted to refer this item back to a Governance and Ethics Committee meeting. At this March 4, 2024 Governance and Ethics Committee meeting, staff will bring forward the current policies and background information for Committee review and discussion.
DISCUSSION
Ceremonial Recognition:
Proclamations w...
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