County codifies electronic meetings into code, approves ordinance 2026‑27

Staff summarized Ordinance 2026‑27 as an effort to consolidate electronic meeting procedures into chapter 2.16 of county code and to ensure county rules align with HB502 and the Utah Open and Public Meetings Act. The ordinance designates the Cache County Historic Courthouse as the physical anchor location, requires a physical quorum at that anchor location before approving remote participation, and grants full voting rights to remote participants after council approval for a given meeting.

Council members questioned notice and public‑participation mechanics. Staff clarified that a separate 24‑hour notice is required to designate a meeting specifically as an electronic meeting; public hearings and truth‑in‑taxation hearings carry statutory public‑participation requirements that may operate independently. The ordinance also authorizes the county council chair to waive the physical‑anchor requirement during health or safety emergencies via a written determination and provides a mechanism for the county executive to designate a temporary seat of government when necessary.

Members raised procedural and security questions about verifying remote participants and whether video confirmation or muting protocols should be required. Staff said practical measures (muting from staff side, requiring video) could be implemented administratively. After discussion, a council member moved to adopt Ordinance 2026‑27; the motion was seconded and the ordinance passed by voice vote.