Review Policy for Attendance and Participation at City Meetings (Council and Commissioners) via Electronic Medium

Purpose/Background:  Staff presented a case for discussion at the February 12, 2018 Council work session which talked about adding the Environmental Policy Board and the Economic Development Authority to the list of televised meetings.  Also discussed with the same case was attendance of Council and Commission members from a remote location.  As noted in the memo from the City Attorney, and presented to the City Council at the 2/12/18 work session, the law does allow for attendance via 'interactive television' with full voting rights - with conditions.  This would allow members more flexible meeting options; however, the City may be limited by the available technology.   
 
Discussion ensued regarding remote attendance and included the concern of multiple members attempting to attend remotely at the same time.  A suggestion was that perhaps a sign-up process be allowed and the first member to sign up could attend remotely.  Another suggestion was that a maximum number be allowed - perhaps one or two members only.  Also suggested was that advance notice of 72 hours, for example, be required. Staff confirmed that a policy would be drafted, based upon the discussion - requiring advance notice and allowing one member at a time to attend remotely.  Such policy is attached for Council review. 
 

To reach an agreement on a policy regarding remote attendance at meetings, which will be brought forward at a subsequent meeting for formal adoption.