Downey council adopts remote-participation policy, selects TownVoice to implement SB77

Downey '026 ' The Downey City Council voted unanimously May 26 to adopt a policy governing disruptions of telephonic or internet service during meetings and to designate TownVoice as the city's two-way audiovisual platform for remote public participation starting with council meetings after July 1, 2026. City Attorney Nora Funk told the council the changes implement SB77, which requires eligible cities to offer members of the public a way to attend and make comment remotely.

The council's action implements four statutory elements for disrupted remote access: a mandatory recess of at least one hour while staff attempts to restore service, a requirement that the council make a finding by roll-call vote before continuing if service remains down after an hour, allowance to meet in closed session during the recess if previously agendaized, and procedures to notify and translate agendas for non-English speakers. "The main change for us ... is remote public participation," City Attorney Funk said, adding that the law takes effect July 1 and that many administrative details are being handled by the clerk's office.

Why it matters: SB77 modernizes Brown Act public-access requirements, aiming to increase accessibility for residents who cannot attend in person. Downey will provide both audiovisual remote options and phone access; staff recommended TownVoice because it integrates with the city's agenda software and offers user-friendly audiovisual and telephone interfaces.

Council members asked about safeguards and enforcement. Funk and clerk staff said the city can mute or remove disruptive remote callers, impose the same time limits as in-person speakers, and include online participants in queue counts. The resolution also directs the clerk to implement translation and outreach provisions required by state law. "The goal of SB77 was really to make public meetings more accessible to the public," Funk said.

What happens next: Staff expects remote participation to be available at the second council meeting in July (the first July meeting is dark). The adopted disruption policy and the TownVoice designation were approved by unanimous roll-call vote. The city will refine operational details (notification language, 10-day advanced notices for certain administrative actions) before full roll-out.