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Moreno Valley council votes to excuse mayors absence amid calls for formal policy; consent items approved
Summary
The City Council voted to excuse Mayor Cabreras absence and approved the consent calendar. Members debated the lack of a written policy for excused absences and directed staff to return with guidelines.
The Moreno Valley City Council voted to excuse Mayor Rafael Cabreras absence at its Feb. 4 meeting and approved the single consent-calendar item after discussion about the need for a formal absence policy.
Council members debated whether the city has clear written standards for excusing elected officials. Council member Gonzales said the council currently follows rules used for boards and commissions but acknowledged there is no formal policy for council members. Several members said a written guideline is overdue.
Council member Delgado said he would generally not vote to excuse absences unless the member was representing the city at an authorized conference, and noted state law allows up to 60 days of absence before penalties that could affect an elected office. Delgado said he had previously declined to have his own absences excused for that reason.
After discussion the council called the vote on a motion to excuse the mayor. The clerk recorded Council member Bernard voting yes, Council member Delgado yes, Council member Gonzales yes and Mayor Pro Tem Baca Santa Cruz no; the motion passed. The council also approved the consent calendar by voice vote; council members Bernard, Delgado, Gonzales and Mayor Pro Tem Baca Santa Cruz all voted yes on the consent item.
City staff and several council members said they will draft formal guidance for excused absences and return it to the council at a future meeting.
The meeting proceeded to other business after the votes.
