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Council adopts changes to procedures manual, adds rule limiting private dais communications; several edits continued for staff redraft
Summary
The council adopted a redlined update to its procedures manual that includes a new provision asking councilmembers and staff to refrain from private texting or communications about agenda items while on the dais; several additional amendments were continued for further review and staff redrafting.
The Cupertino City Council on March 4 approved a set of amendments to the council procedures manual including a new provision that asks elected officials and staff not to engage in private texting or communications about matters on the meeting agenda while on the dais.
Texting provision: The newly adopted language says, in part, that "during public meetings, council members shall not text or otherwise communicate privately with any public official ... or with members of the public regarding matters relevant to items on the agenda while on the dais." The mayor clarified the provision was not intended to prevent ordinary personal or emergency communications (for example with family or to address a technical problem), and councilmembers asked staff to refine the text and guidance on enforcement and exceptions.
Other procedural changes and continuation: The council adopted portions of the redlined manual presented by the city attorney, including changes to timing for adoption of the annual meeting calendar and clarifications about consent-calendar practice. A number of additional suggested edits were continued so staff could return with a consolidated redline and clearer drafting, and the council asked staff to solicit and consolidate input from all councilmembers before the next hearing.
Why it matters: The texting rule and other clarifying edits respond to public concern about transparency and private communications during public meetings. Councilmembers debated enforceability and the need to allow staff flexibility for logistical communications and for members to receive materials while attending remotely.
Who spoke: The mayor introduced the changes and several council members asked for clarifications. Members of the public also commented on process and transparency during public comment.
Next steps: Staff and the city attorney will produce a consolidated redline incorporating the additional changes requested by the mayor and other councilmembers and return the item for council consideration at a future meeting; the city clerk will publish the revised manual after the next council review.
