Skip to main content

AgendaQuick™

View Agenda Item

Action   6.
Regular Board of Supervisors Meeting
Board of Supervisors
Meeting Date:
04/08/2025
Title:
Adoption of Resolution No. 25-__ Establishing an Invocation Policy for Regular Board Meetings
Submitted By:
Lara Loewenheim, Board of Supervisors
Department:
Board of Supervisors
Presentation:
No A/V Presentation
Recommendation:
Document Signatures:
# of ORIGINALS
Submitted for Signature:
NAME
of PRESENTER:
Paul Correa
TITLE
of PRESENTER:
Chief Civil Deputy County Attorney
Mandated Function?:
Source of Mandate
or Basis for Support?:

Information

Agenda Item Text:

Approve Resolution 25-07 establishing an Invocation Policy and Procedure for Regular Meetings of the Cochise County Board of Supervisors.

Background:

The Cochise County Board of Supervisors recognizes the longstanding tradition of legislative prayer in public meetings and its compatibility with the First Amendment. In alignment with this tradition and with respect for diverse beliefs, the Board seeks to adopt a clear and respectful procedure for opening invocations at its Regular Meetings.

This resolution establishes a formal Invocation Policy, ensuring that invocations lend gravity to proceedings while respecting all faiths and non-beliefs. The policy outlines the rotation of invocation responsibilities among Supervisors, the inclusion of community volunteers, time limits, content guidelines, and the voluntary nature of participation.

The resolution upholds the principles of neutrality, decorum, and inclusivity, ensuring that invocations remain respectful and non-proselytizing. It also provides an alternative option for a moment of silence in the absence of an invocation speaker.

This policy aims to foster an atmosphere of reflection and unity while maintaining the integrity of Board proceedings.

Department's Next Steps (if approved):

Record resolution. Implement new policy.

Impact of NOT Approving/Alternatives:

There will be no policy in place regarding the invocation at Board of Supervisor meetings.

To BOS Staff: Document Disposition/Follow-Up:

Record resolution. Implement new policy.

Fiscal Impact

Attachments