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Committee debates whether to keep Zoom for public participation; staff to seek counsel
Summary
Members debated ending Zoom public participation versus continuing it for accessibility; staff noted technical steps, $700 webinar cost and suggested legal/administrative advice before any policy change.
Committee members at the Sept. 15 Policy & Curriculum meeting discussed whether the district should continue allowing public participation via Zoom. One director argued for removing Zoom for public participants, saying remote viewers rarely engage and that in‑person meetings are preferable. Other members and staff cautioned that removing Zoom could be seen as less transparent and noted there is no written policy currently requiring remote participation.
Staff explained that Zoom/webinar costs (about $700 annually) are used to broadcast meetings (YouTube) and that some technical steps are required to permit remote participants to speak; staff said they have adopted workarounds (chat, raised hand) and try to include remote participants when they appear. Members expressed concerns about accessibility and public perception. Staff said they would consult with the district solicitor/administration about whether a policy change or board action is needed and report back with a recommended next step.
