Discuss Continuum of Action as it pertains to Meeting Disruptions

Purpose:  To discuss/address process for dealing with meeting disruptions.

Background:  From time to time, there have been disruptions at public meetings and it has been suggested that it would be beneficial to have a process in place to deal with disruptions.

The authority to enact measures to deal with disruptions comes from Minnesota State Statutes 624.72 Interference with Use of Public Property, Subd. 4. Rule Violation, which reads:  Violation of a rule or regulation which has been published, posted, or announced in a reasonable manner at the time of such conduct shall be prima facie evidence of intent to violate this section.  State Statute 624.72 is attached.  Also attached is an example of a Continuum of Action:  Meetings, as well as Disruption Instructions.  Staff could use these as a template for posting on or near the door of the Council Chambers.  Because this is in State Statutes, it is not necessary for Council to formally adopt this or adopt a policy relating to this; however, it is important that all Council members are aware of the policy, procedures,and postings that are proposed.

The City should consider all the public meeting rooms at the municipal center under this policy, as well as all City board and commissions that conduct public meeting.  A document and/or training should be considered for all of the Commission Chairs.

Approximately 30 minutes.

No funding required.

City Administrator Ulrich
Police Representation:  Chief Way and/or Captain Katers

Staff would like to receive clear direction in regard to the attached policy for continuum of action. Meetings and the disruptive instructions can be modifid based upon discussion, adapted to Ramsey, and posted on or near the Council Chambers door(s).  This can be done via consensus, and no formal action would be necessary.