Fraser council rescinds rule limiting electronic communications during meetings after heated debate

Council member Baransky reintroduced Rule 7.12 — the code provision that limits electronic communications relating to city business while council is in session — and several members engaged in extended debate over its language and enforceability. Council member Higgins and others said the word "review" in the rule made it unworkable because it would prevent members from checking agenda materials and resident emails during meetings. Mayor Promodell argued the rule was meant to protect transparent deliberation: "While we're up here, the seven of us ... we are deliberating together and that we aren't communicating with members of the audience or members watching on TV," he said.

Members differed on whether the rule had practical enforcement or whether it encouraged better pre‑meeting preparation. City attorney Don explained the rule's origin and warned about the appearance concerns that prompted it originally. "It can start to take on that appearance of impropriety," Don said, describing how covert messaging during deliberations undermines public observation of the decision‑making process.

After discussion, Council member Baransky moved to rescind Rule 7.12. The motion passed on roll call: Baransky — yes; Fletcher — yes; Higgins — no; Les — no; Odell — no; Perry — yes; Shornack — yes (4–3). The chair confirmed the rule was rescinded and said members may use electronic devices for city business going forward, subject to any future council action to adopt narrower language.