Subject
title
Adoption of an Ordinance to Amend Chapter 2 (Administration), Article II, Division 2 (Mayor and Council) of the Rockville City Code to, among other things, provide for certain rules and procedures for Mayor and Council meetings.
end
Department
City Manager's Office (CMO)
Recommendation
Staff recommends that the Mayor and Council introduce the proposed ordinance. If the Mayor and Council wish to proceed with the adoption of the ordinance at this meeting, the ordinance should first be introduced and then a motion should be made to waive the layover period. If the motion to waive the layover period is approved by an affirmative vote of six or more members of the body, a motion to adopt the ordinance may then proceed.
Change in Law or Policy
If approved, the rules and procedures will be incorporated into the city code.
Discussion
The attached ordinance has been developed to ensure that Mayor and Council meetings are consistent, efficient, and equal for all participants.
The expected outcomes of the amended rules and procedures include:
• Efficient meetings
• Equal participation by all members of the body
• Clear direction to staff
• Completed meetings before 10 p.m.
• Enhanced community engagement
A summary of the modified rules and procedures includes:
• Requiring the body to only discuss items beyond 10 p.m. when a majority of the body agrees to extend the meeting
• Require at least 4 members of the body to add an item to a future Mayor and Council meeting agenda
• An affirmative vote of at least 6 members of the body is necessary to adopt any motion under Old and New Business
• Questions by the body after staff reports will be rotated amongst members of the body, with the presiding officer asking questions last in accordance with Robert's Rules of Order.
• Mayor and Council members may ask up to three questions per round of questions
• Comments, observations, and opinions regarding agenda items will occur only after the body asks staff questions and will be rotated amongst members of the body, with the presiding officer asking questions last.
Impact Statements
Equity
The creation and enforcement of these rules and procedures will provide a safe and equitable space for everyone to observe the meeting and participate.
Environment
The rules have no environmental impact.
Economy
The rules have no economic impact.
Mayor and Council History
This is the first time the Mayor and Council is considering these recommended rules and procedures.
Next Steps
Following the adoption of the rules and procedures, the body shall follow its guidance during all Mayor and Council meetings.