It is vital to utilize established procedures and/or rules in conducting meetings in order to ensure that meetings are productive, allows anyone wishing to speak to be heard, and allows the decision-making body to render clear decisions without confusion. 

The Planning Commission rules of order/operation were adopted to allow for procedural guidelines for decision-making, allow for orderly and meaningful discussion, and provide transparency to the public. The Rules were initially adopted by the Planning Commission in 1995, revised in 2003, and last discussed in 2013.

The Planning Commission utilizes Robert's Rules of Order as its basic framework. The decision on how closely to follow Robert's Rules of Order is up to the Planning Commission.

The purpose of this study session is to discuss the adopted rules with the revisions recommended by the City Attorney's office (Attachment No. 1).

During the study session, staff and the Deputy City Attorney will summarize the recommended changes and answer questions from the Planning Commission. The Planning Commission will also have the opportunity to have a meaningful discussion on the subject and direct staff to make any further changes/revisions. 
 

It is recommended that the Planning Commission review the draft Planning Commission Standing Meeting Rules and direct staff to make the revisions for adoption at the next Planning Commission meeting.