Council debates permit to unlock mobile devices for public meetings after speakers raise access concerns

The Finance Committee discussed an ordinance that would permit attendees to have mobile devices unlocked while attending public meetings, a change proponents said would increase accessibility for people with medical or emergency needs.

One committee member argued the current blanket prohibition creates a barrier to participation: "I sit here today with my phone that manages my diabetes," the member said, explaining the phone can alert them to dangerous sugar fluctuations and that locking phones at the door can prevent people from safely attending meetings. Supporters also cited parents who need to be reachable for childcare and others who rely on devices for health monitoring.

Opponents and several members urged that the ordinance not stand alone without operational guidelines. Questions raised included who will unlock and relock phones, whether a sign‑in roster is required, how unlocked phones will be prevented from moving elsewhere in the courthouse, and whether sheriffs or deputies will oversee the process. An administration representative said staff will work to draft a policy that limits unlocked devices to after‑hours public meetings and includes appropriate controls.

The ordinance was discussed in the context of prior courthouse practice: the original court‑ordered restrictions covered "court business," and staff said the sheriff had agreed in principle that phones could be unlocked for council meeting needs. Council members concluded more detailed administrative guidance is necessary before adoption and asked administration to provide procedures addressing security, sign‑in/accountability, and limits to courthouse areas.

Next steps: committee members requested a written policy and logistics plan from administration before moving toward final consideration.