Council asks staff to return with alternative dais designs for new Kent Hall chamber

The council discussed a planned custom‑built council dais for Kent Hall and directed staff to return with alternative designs after members raised concerns about public sightlines and whether staff should be seated behind council or in a separate area.

Council members said the circular dais design shown in the packet could block public sightlines and make some council members’ backs visible to the audience. Staff said the chosen design aimed to create a more inclusive configuration where presenters and lectern users would be closer to the table. Staff also explained room constraints (size and need for more audience seating) and offered an alternative: a more horseshoe‑shaped layout that would keep staff separate but visually connected.

Council requested that staff ask the manufacturer to provide designs that open the dais (not a fully enclosed circle), consider straightening end seats so council members are more facing the audience, and provide options showing staff seated in a separate area (horseshoe with staff off to the side). The motion to direct staff to return with alternative designs passed by roll call.

Ending: Staff will consult the manufacturer and present alternative dais layouts and restoration/capacity implications at a future meeting.