RulesCommunications Highlights 2009 0526

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City Council Rules and Communications Committee May 26, 2009 i~ The cost of the system is $350,000, which would need to be divided among the cities that would use the system. The Alameda County Counsel has prepared a draft cost-sharing agreement, and each participating city would pay a proportional cost, based on the number of registered voters in that city. San Leandro's cost for the system would be approximately $42,000. Committee Member Stephens commented that he would be in favor of considering the use of RCV once the system is certified. Committee Member Souza stated that she would not be in favor of changing the election date before the RCV system is certified. Charles Gilcrest commented that the City would see a small cost savings in FY 2009-10 if the June 2010 election was moved to November 2010, but the City Council should not consider moving the election date before the RCV system is certified. Mr. Gilcrest stated that RCV enjoys a high approval rating among users, and results in higher public support for those who are elected. 4. Discussion Regarding Procedures for Public Speakers at Council and Committee Meetings Chair Santos noted the difficulty that he and the City Clerk have experienced when managing a large number of public speakers at City Council meetings. He and Ms. Handa have discussed ideas for making the speaker rules clearer to members of the audience. They suggested adding an announcement section at the beginning of the Council agenda, at which time speaker procedures would be announced; including in the announcement a request that speakers submit a separate card for each agenda item they wish to address; and posting a sign behind the staff table to remind speakers when to tum in their cards. Chair Santos commented on the need to balance the right of the public to speak with the need to conduct an orderly and efficient meeting. City Attorney Jayne Williams indicated that the meeting chair should exercise extra diligence with speakers during the conduct of public hearings. The Committee discussed the suggestions, and agreed that they should be implemented. Chair Santos noted that the City Council Committee chairs should also ensure that public comments are allowed during each agenda item at Committee meetings. Committee Member Souza asked whether the Mayor or City Council should respond to, or engage in discussion with, public speakers. Committee Member Stephens expressed concern about this type of exchange during a public meeting. Ms. Williams stated that the Council should refrain from engaging in dialogue with members of the public during meetings.