Brief Description: Protecting the right of citizen participation at code city council meetings.

Sponsors: Representatives B. Sullivan, Chase and Haler.

Hearing Date: 3/17/05

Staff: Kathryn Leathers (786-7114).

Background:

Non-charter code or charter code cities ("code cities") may elect to adopt the mayor-council or the council-manager plan of government. Under both types of governing plans, the city council and mayor/manager must meet at least once a month. Special meetings may be called by the mayor/manager or by any three members of the council so long as statutory notice requirements are followed.

Code cities have the same powers as cities or towns have under the Constitution of this state except those powers that are specifically denied to code cities by law. The passage of any ordinance, grant or revocation of franchise or license, and any resolution for the payment of money requires the vote of at least a majority of the whole membership of the council.

All code city council meetings are open to the public, except during executive sessions as authorized by the Open Public Meetings Act. The statutes establishing code city governance do not expressly address a citizen's right to be heard at public council meetings.

Summary of Bill:

This bill requires that a code city's council rules provide citizens a reasonable opportunity to be heard at council meetings on issues related to any matter being considered at the council meeting.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Not requested.

Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.