Assembly advances ordinance to allow limited remote participation by mayor, assembly members

The Kodiak Island Borough Assembly voted 6-1 on April 3 to advance Ordinance FY2025-15 to a public hearing. The ordinance would permit the mayor and assembly members to participate electronically in borough meetings under defined circumstances, require advance notice in most cases, and limit regular-meeting remote attendance to four times per year.

Supporters said the change would increase inclusion for working-age residents and island communities; opponents warned it could reduce in-person accountability for elected officials. Assemblymember Jared moved the ordinance and the motion was seconded (second not named in the record). After two amendments and debate, the assembly voted to advance the ordinance to public hearing.

The ordinance as amended would: require assembly members to notify the clerk of intended absence at least 24 hours before a meeting (the mayor may waive that requirement if notice is given before 5 p.m. the day…