RulesCommunications Highlights 2006 0302

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Rules and Communications %.ommittee March 2, 2006 Page 2 that the Attorney General has not yet set forth the requirements for the ethics training. The City Clerk will keep a record of the documentation provided by Councilmembers as required by AB 1234. Committee Member Stephens noted that State legislators are already required to report this information. Committee Chair Badger suggested that the ethics training could be given during a two-hour work session. City Manager Jermanis commented that he and City Attorney Williams have discussed the possibility of holding a joint meeting with the Council and some of the boards and commissions which would be subject to the new law, such as the Planning Commission and BZA. He noted that the City Council already has a reimbursement policy formalized in the City's Administrative Code. Mr. Jermanis indicated that conference registration forms and other related documents will be copied and made available for public review. Finance Director Jesse Baloca reported that the reimbursement requirements under AB 1234 are basically the same as what the City requires now. The draft resolution would amend the City's Administrative Code to fully comply with the Sunshine Bill. Mr. Baloca pointed out some policies to which the City will try to have stricter adherence, such as the use of the government rate for travel accommodations and the travel advance policy. Mr. Jermanis explained the travel advance policy, which requires that the recipient of the advance either submit receipts for the use of the advance or report it as income. Committee Member Stephens suggested that it would be helpful for new City Councilmembers to receive this information as part of their orientation. Committee Member Nardine commented on a discussion by the Alameda County Mosquito Abatement District (ACMAD) Board of Directors regarding which agency is responsible for reimbursement for meetings between two governmental agencies. Committee Chair Badger commented that the reporting appears less onerous than what he has experienced in the corporate sector. The Committee discussed various reimbursement issues, including group tabs, gratuities, cab rides, and other instances where no receipt is provided. Committee members suggested revisions to the draft resolution. Committee Recommendation The Committee recommends the City Council schedule a work session to discuss the requirements of AB 1234 and the draft resolution establishing the policy of reimbursement of expenses for City Councilmembers, members of boards and commissions, and City employees. 3. Public Comments None.