Commissioners receive mandatory Open and Public Meetings Act training

Berkeley Hurt presented the Planning Commission’s annual Open and Public Meetings Act (OPMA) training during the Jan. 14 meeting, summarizing who is covered by the law, what counts as a meeting and practical compliance steps.

Hurt told commissioners OPMA applies to public bodies and that a "meeting" exists when a public body convenes to deliberate or take action on a relevant matter. He stressed requirements including posting a specific agenda with date, time and place, retaining accurate minutes and audio recordings and providing at least 24 hours’ notice for meetings.

Hurt summarized closed-meeting rules: a two-thirds quorum is required to close a meeting, the body must state the reasons for closing, audio must still be retained, and closed meetings cannot be used to approve rules, contracts or appointments. He also noted that electronic meetings are permitted if the body has provided for them by rule.

On enforcement, Hurt said actions taken in violation of OPMA can be voided and said knowingly violating the act can carry criminal consequences. He closed with practical tips: when in doubt, err on the side of openness, be specific in agendas, keep accurate records and consult staff for questions.

Commissioners thanked the presenter and staff for an engaging session; no formal action resulted from the training.