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Corona council approves first reading to let start times be set by resolution; change to 6 p.m. planned
Summary
The council voted 5‑0 on first reading to amend the municipal code so meeting start times can be set by resolution. Staff recommended the move to improve accessibility; the ordinance will return for second reading Feb. 19 and, if adopted, take effect 30 days later with the first meeting under the new time on April 2.
The Corona City Council voted unanimously, 5‑0, on first reading to amend the municipal code so the City Council can set regular meeting start times by resolution rather than by a fixed code provision.
Assistant or staff presenter Mears summarized the request originally submitted by Mayor Steiner to change the regular meeting start time from 6:30 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. and to adjust study sessions to improve public participation. Staff advised that a municipal code amendment (Corona Municipal Code section 2.08.0.01) is required to allow the council to set start times by ordinance and suggested adopting a resolution to provide flexibility. The presentation noted that if the council proceeded tonight, the ordinance was ready for first reading; the second reading was scheduled for Feb. 19, and, if adopted, the change would take effect 30 days later with the first meeting under a 6:00 p.m. start time on April 2.
Public comment on the item was supportive; resident Joe Morgan told the council the change “will be good for residents” and thanked the mayor and council for pursuing it. Council discussion focused on access and flexibility; Councilmember West Speak emphasized that moving start times should not limit debate and said the council can “always pause on a subject, bring it back, extend the conversation” when more time is needed.
Councilmember West Speak moved approval of the ordinance’s first reading; a colleague seconded. The motion passed 5‑0. Staff will return with the ordinance for second reading on Feb. 19 and a final effective date will be set per the adopted ordinance and resolution.
