Committee backs sending remote‑participation exceptions and clarifying residency language to clerks

The committee reviewed a draft of proposed remote participation rules and read aloud a code provision that requires "a minimum of 48 hours written notice" to the clerk for remote participation except in emergencies. An assembly member described a recent instance where a remote-participation request failed because an email did not get through, and members questioned whether the 48-hour requirement remains necessary in a Zoom era.

Members discussed adding a set of exceptions so the 48-hour requirement would not apply when remote participation becomes necessary because of sudden illness or injury, family or personal emergency, unforeseen transportation or weather disruption, previously authorized extended medical circumstances, or emergency assembly meetings. The chair suggested a process for prior authorization of extended remote participation for medical reasons that would protect privacy while documenting the need.

The draft also includes a "Residency and Physical Presence" paragraph clarifying that remote participation is intended to accommodate temporary absences and shall not permit routine out-of-municipality residency while serving on the assembly; committee members praised the phrase "routinely reside." The committee voted to forward the recommended changes and requested clerks correct cross-reference typos and return a redrafted ordinance.