The advent of emerging technologies presents Council Members the opportunity to discuss and debate Council business in non-traditional formats not always conducive to public observation and scrutiny.  Since principles of open government and open meetings laws require that debate on issues presented to the City Council take place in a manner consistent with the letter and spirit of open government and ample opportunity for public observation and comment, the Council wished to adopt policies consistent with these principles and set guidelines for use of electronic communications during Council Meetings.  The City Attorney was directed via Council Initiative by Council Member Pitman to develop policies and guidelines to be implemented by resolution and administrative order.  The proposed resolution and policy were presented to Council during the August 17th work session and formally during the September 28, 2009, Regular Council Meeting.  Pursuant to the motion of Council Member Veis, the Council continued final approval of this policy in order to insert an exception for personal or business emergency.  Staff has collaborated with Council Members Veis and Pitman on this exception and it is noted by underlines in the attached Resolution labeled "Attachment A".

During the August 17, 2009, work session, the Mayor, City Council and staff discussed maintaining the status quo, and having no specific rules for electronic device use; or drafting and approving new guidelines governing the use of electronic communications during City Council Meetings.  Therefore the Council may:

• Approve the attached resolution adopting electronic device use guidelines; or
•  Disapprove the attached resolution adopting electronic device use guidelines.

This action will have no financial impact.

Staff recommends the Council adopt the attached resolution as modified per Council Member Veis.