02-09-26-WS - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Browse Search

Whatever policy the council adopts, it should follow it. Although the council can vote to change or suspend its rules, it is probably better to stick with the adopted rules except on rare occasions. III. Meeting decorum Meeting decorum may be an aspect of the city council's bylaws or it may be a separate set of expectations and rules that may or may not be formally adopted in written form. However, written decorum rules usually provide for clearer expectations that everyone can understand. It also is usually easier to enforce expectations if they are written out. Appendix A of this memo has sample bylaws that cities may use to help create and adopt their own council bylaws. A. Typical decorum requirements See Appendix A: Minnesota Typical rules of decorum require council members to: Mayors Association City Council Bylaws. • Refrain from private conversation while in the council chamber that interrupts the proceedings of the council. • Refrain from the use of offensive words, threats of violence, or other objectionable language in or against the council or against any member. • Limit speech to subject of current debate. • Abide by time limits for speaking. More modern policies on decorum may also emphasize: • Refraining from the use of cell phones or other personal electronic devices during meetings. In addition to being a decorum problem, this may also create problems under the Open Meeting Law. • Allowing the use of cameras, video, and other recording devices, but requiring them to be used in an unobtrusive manner that does not disrupt or delay the meeting. Rules of decorum are often also established to govern the conduct of the public when participating in meetings. See Appendix E. Council B. Enforcing decorum among council Handouts members Council meetings on important community issues may become contentious very quickly. Minnesota Mayors Chapter 1-18 Association