pages: CityCouncil/2015-10-06.pdf, 12
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CityCouncil | 2015-10-06 | 12 | Vice Mayor Matarrese stated that he would like the OGC to consider guiding language, not prohibitive language; he would still like clarification that everyone is starting from a common place. Mayor Spencer stated that she and Vice Mayor Matarrese are referring to the same thing; the starting point is the agenda and Council packet. Policy body members submitting comments when not present at the meeting: In response to Councilmember Oddie's inquiry, the Assistant City Attorney stated the policy is for information only, the Commission is not recommending substantive changes. Councilmember Daysog stated that he likes the staff recommendation; if members want to participate, they should be present at the meeting. Councilmember Oddie stated that he has a problem with having people check their right to speak at the door just because they are a member of a policy body. Vice Mayor Matarrese stated it is a constitutional right to vote. Councilmember Ezzy Ashcraft inquired whether case law speaks to the matter, to which the Assistant City Attorney responded in the negative; stated it is just a policy issue. Councilmember Daysog stated the policy is practical; members present at meetings have the right to vote and express their opinion; if a member does not show up for a controversial item, it is not fair to insert his or her opinion for the public record and not vote. Councilmember Oddie stated on the flip side, an opinion from a member with financial conflict should not be heard; otherwise, it is a free speech issue; free speech rights should not have to be checked at the door. Councilmember Ezzy Ashcraft stated a couple of concepts are being mixed into one provision; a conflict is a conflict under any circumstances. Mayor Spencer concurred with Councilmember Oddie and Vice Mayor Matarrese; stated that she does not want to quash someone's first amendment right. The Assistant City Attorney stated the explanation indicates that a person who has a conflict of interest which would cause them to recuse themselves during a meeting has an exception which allows the person to come off the dais and address the Commission; the same exception would apply to a member in the same situation that was not present. Regular Meeting Alameda City Council 12 October 6, 2015 | CityCouncil/2015-10-06.pdf |