Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Open Meetings topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Atwater council adopts SB 707 rule to address remote meeting disruptions
Summary
The City Council voted to adopt a policy required by SB 707 that sets procedures for telephonic or audiovisual service disruptions during remote participation; staff said technology upgrades and a budget amendment will be presented before the July 1 compliance date.
The Atwater City Council voted May 11 to adopt a policy required by SB 707 that details how the city will respond to telephonic or audiovisual service disruptions when members or members of the public participate remotely.
Frank, a city staff member presenting the item, said SB 707 (the Brown Act modernization law) requires jurisdictions that offer remote participation to have protocols for service disruptions. "If there is a service disruption, the city has to endeavor to spend at least one hour to try to fix it," he said, and if the problem cannot be resolved the council may continue the meeting without remote access, adjourn, or make findings explaining the decision.
Council members asked whether the city will be able to meet the July 1, 2026 start date for the new requirements. Staff said they have solicited five quotes for audio‑visual upgrades for the council chambers, are evaluating vendors and will bring a recommended vendor and any necessary budget amendment to the council at a future meeting.
The council moved and the motion passed by roll call vote to adopt the policy. Staff said the policy clarifies balancing the public’s first‑amendment rights with the city’s ability to conduct essential business when service is disrupted. No additional amendments were made on the floor.
