pages: CityCouncil/2015-10-06.pdf, 13
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CityCouncil | 2015-10-06 | 13 | Mayor Spencer stated staff should work on the language and bring it back; the majority of Council agrees that assuming there is no conflict of interest and the person just happens to not be able to attend the meeting, they can submit their comments to be considered. The Assistant City Attorney stated the current language creates an exception as to when the person could submit comments; the question is whether Council feels it is appropriate for a board member as a general principle, to be able to submit comments even if that board member cannot attend; if it is ok to submit comments, then the section does not need to be rewritten and can be deleted. Mayor Spencer noted the consensus is to delete the section. Public comment by policy body members: Vice Mayor Matarrese stated the Council could remove any member of a board, and staff could provide City policy to the member during deliberations; the OGC recommendation should stand; he does not think there should be prohibition. In response to Councilmember Ezzy Ashcraft's inquiry, the City Attorney stated the Recreation and Park letter to the Council regarding the EBRPD was publicly available; the EBRPD had the ability to see the letter. The Interim Assistant City Manager clarified that the letter went directly to the Council and was not distributed to EBRPD individual members. Councilmember Ezzy Ashcraft stated that she is reluctant to craft a provision which focuses on one instance that cannot be recalled clearly; in the case of litigation, things that would undermine the Council's position should not be done; there will be a variety of differing opinions; she concurred with Vice Mayor Matarrese that the Council always has the prerogative to remove a board or Commission member; stated there should be language clear enough for when the line is crossed. Vice Mayor Matarrese stated the situation that was described was a legitimate difference of opinion, the policy seems to be trying to squash that. In response to Councilmember Ezzy Ashcraft's inquiry, Vice Mayor Matarrese stated he does not think the policy should be part of the Sunshine Ordinance; the policy is part of the handbook for new Commissioners and should be removed. Councilmember Oddie stated sending letters to outside organizations which undermine the Council's policy or position in litigation is inappropriate, but advisory bodies should be allowed to send letters directly to the Council with their opinions; the Council should have the ultimate decision regarding policy making. Regular Meeting Alameda City Council 13 October 6, 2015 | CityCouncil/2015-10-06.pdf |