Council will receive a presentation providing an overview of key topics regarding City Council Meeting Rules of Procedure, Open Meeting Law requirements, Ethics and Gift Declaration procedures, Governance Relations System, and Council support. (Wynette Reed, City Manager; Jasmine Pernicano, Acting City Clerk; Roric Massey, City Attorney; and Jenna Goad, Assistant to the City Manager)

This item supports the onboarding of the newly seated Council and serves as a refresher training for existing Councilmembers. There is no associated fiscal impact.

As the new City Council is seated, staff will provide an overview of the key documents that establish the framework for Council operations, including procedural guidelines, ethical standards, and governance systems that promote effective, transparent, and accountable leadership. This overview also serves as a refresher training for existing Councilmembers.

Additionally, staff will highlight the support services available to assist the City Council throughout their tenure, ensuring they have the resources needed to fulfill their roles effectively.

Below is an outline of the documents attached to the Council Action Report that will be discussed during the Work Session:

Attachment A: The Council Meeting Rules of Procedure, first adopted by Council in 2000, provide the framework for conducting efficient and transparent City Council meetings. The most recent version was adopted on July 9, 2018, with a minor amendment on October 7, 2024. This presentation will highlight updates to the document, which is scheduled for Council adoption on January 27, 2025.

Attachment B: Chapter 7 of the Arizona Attorney General Handbook provides comprehensive guidance on Open Meeting Law, ensuring Council compliance with state transparency requirements.

Attachment C: The Goodyear Ethics Handbook for Elected and Appointed Officials, Employees, and Volunteers outlines the ethical standards and expectations that uphold public trust and integrity in city governance. It was first approved by the Council on September 28, 2009, and later updated on February 11, 2016.

Attachment D: The Governance Relations System (GRS), developed by the Bridge Group for Council-Manager forms of governance, clarifies the roles, responsibilities, and expectations of the City Council, City Manager, and the organization, fostering collaboration and civic engagement.

Attachment E: Job descriptions for the Executive Assistant, Council Assistants, and Assistant to the Mayor detail the support services provided to the Office of the Mayor and Council, highlighting the resources available to assist with their roles and responsibilities.

These attachments collectively serve as essential tools to support the Council in navigating their responsibilities and ensuring effective governance.