San Antonio examines Open Meetings Act violations and social media impacts

During a recent Charter Commission meeting in Fate, Texas, discussions centered on the importance of adhering to the Open Meetings Act (OMA), which aims to ensure transparency in government proceedings. The meeting highlighted a significant case from San Antonio that serves as a cautionary tale about the consequences of violating these laws.

The case involved city officials discussing funding for a nonprofit in private meetings, leading to a lawsuit that deemed their actions unconstitutional under the old law. This example was used to emphasize the stricter regulations of the current OMA, which prohibits elected or appointed officials from communicating about issues outside of public meetings if it could lead to a quorum discussing the matter.

Commission members were advised to avoid discussing charter review matters outside of official meetings to prevent potential violations. The discussion also touched on the risks posed by new technologies, particularly social media, where public comments on city business could inadvertently lead to OMA violations if a quorum engages in the conversation.

The meeting further addressed the potential penalties for violating the OMA, which can include civil remedies and the possibility of actions being declared voidable. This underscores the importance of compliance to maintain the integrity of the commission's work.

Additionally, the public's right to speak on agenda items was reaffirmed, ensuring community members have a voice in discussions that affect them. This commitment to transparency and public engagement is crucial for fostering trust and accountability in local governance.