HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes - January 24, 2006 SSCITY OF LODI
INFORMAL INFORMATIONAL MEETING
"SHIRTSLEEVE" SESSION
CARNEGIE FORUM, 305 WEST PINE STREET
TUESDAY, JANUARY 24, 2006
An Informal Informational Meeting ("Shirtsleeve" Session) of the Lodi City Council was held Tuesday,
January 24, 2006, commencing at 7:00 a.m.
A. ROLL CALL
Present: Council Members — Beckman, Hansen, Johnson, Mounce, and Mayor Hitchcock
Absent: Council Members — None
Also Present: City Manager King, City Attorney Schwabauer, and City Clerk Blackston
B. TOPIC(S)
B-1 "Continued review of draft City Council Protocol Manual'
City Clerk Blackston recalled that the January 10 Shirtsleeve Session review of the draft
Protocol Manual had concluded with section 5. Ms. Blackston mentioned that she would
add a subsection documenting that Council annually hosts an event to recognize current
and retiring members of Council appointed boards, commissions, and committees.
Discussion ensued about the inconsistent practice of recognizing outgoing chairpersons
and certain City staff at Council meetings. No change was recommended and consensus
was to allow such recognition to occur as requested.
Ms. Blackston stated that she would change the heading of section 6.2 from "Meeting
Dates" to "Meeting Location."
Referencing section 6.3b, Ms. Blackston read the following statement, which had originated
from the minutes of February 1, 2005, `1f a request is made by a Council Member at a
Council meeting, it is suggested that a vote be taken, or an indication through
concurrence, that there is an interest by a majority of Council to hear the matter."
Discussion ensued about the above statement, and it was generally agreed that any
member of the Council should be able to request that an item be placed on a City Council
agenda; however, staff would not devote time and resources to preparing reports, etc. until
after the matter was discussed by Council and a decision made on whether or not to
proceed.
In reference to section 6.3m, City Attorney Schwabauer recalled that Council had previously
requested that he provide more information on the subject of Council comments on non -
agenda items. He reported that the Brown Act states that it is not intended to allow
discussion and debate about an item that is within the jurisdiction of the Council. It would
be ai appropriate time for Council Members to ask that a matter be placed on a future
agenda for discussion. He also mentioned that under AB 1234 Council will be required to
report (during comments by Council on non -agenda items) on any conference attended and
make a brief statement on the substance of what was learned.
City Manager King suggested that the issue of electronic communications also be
addressed in the Protocol Manual. He noted that some cities will not accept email
comments during council meetings as part of public hearings because identity of the
sender cannot be definitively ascertained.
Mr. Schwabauer explained that during quasi-judicial public hearings the Council is acting in
the capacity of judges, rather than legislators, and cannot eccept comment outside the
course of the hearing without disclosing the content. In quasi-judicial hearings, the Council
must be impartial and all sides are to have an equal opportunity to present and rebut
evidence.
Continued January 24, 2006
Ms. Blackston noted that the administrative policy related to Council agenda/packets
prohibits Council Members from using the Internet or communicating via email during
meetings. She also reported that a request to amend resolution 2004-282 will be brought to
Council to add ex parte announcements. This will change the procedure for public hearings
to allow an opportunity for Council Members to disclose, prior to the opening of a quasi-
judicial hearing, any communications they had pertaining to the matter.
Council Member Beckman asked the City Attorney to delineate quasi-judicial hearings on
agendas.
Referencing section 6.4d, City Manager King noted that Council is asked not to engage in
debate with members of the public during meetings, as it improves decorum and ensures
the public an uninterrupted period to make comments. He suggested that factual
responses be made by Council and staff following the close of the public comment period.
It was suggested that the Council Protocol Manual be distributed to Council Members on
compact disc and posted on the City's website.
Section 7.3, Citizen Complaint Process, was discussed and Mr. King acknowledged that
there was no tracking system in place or method of coordinating responses and suggested
that the reference be omitted from the Manual. He did feel that complaints should be
forwarded to the City Manager's Office. To avoid misunderstandings, Mr. King asked that
Council Members communicate requests to him rather than directly to staff members.
Council Member Mounce mentioned that she had her own website to allow her constituents
a venue for expressing opinions and asking questions and she inquired whether this would
be in violation of the policy, to which Mr. King replied that it would not.
Ms. Blackston stated that she would amend section 7.3 to include the process that the
City Clerk's Office uses when communications are received for the City Council.
In reference to section 8.5, Mr. Schwabauer explained that he represents the City through
its elected body and does not represent individual Council Members. If a Council Member
requests conflict of interest advice from him, the information is public and will be shared
with the remainder of the Council. Mr. Schwabauer noted that his informal opinions in such
matters are not a defense to prosecution from the Fair Political Practices Commission
(FPPC). The only defense would be a formal written opinion from the FPPC.
C. COMMENTS BY THE PUBLIC ON NON -AGENDA ITEMS
None.
D. ADJOURNMENT
No action was taken by the City Council. The meeting was adjourned at 8:38 a.m.
ATTEST:
Susan J. Blackston
City Clerk
2
City of Lodi
CITY COUNCIL PROTOCOL MANUAL
Adopted by the Lodi City Council
(Date,)
Prepared by:
Office of the City Clerk
City of Lodi
221 W. Pine Street
P.O. Box 3006
Lodi, CA 95241-1910
City Council Protocol Manual
Paget of25
TABLE OF CONTENTS
1. PURPOSE
2. STATUTORY REQUIREMENTS/ REGULATIONS
2.1 The Brown Act
2.2 Political Reform Act
2.3 Lodi Municipal Code (LMC)
2.4 LMC Chapter 2.04 Relating to Council Meetings
2.5 Rules of Conduct of Meetings, Proceedings, and Business
( Res. 2004-282)
2.6 City of Lodi Administrative Policy Manual
2.7 Code of Ethics & Values (Res. 2004-115)
3. COUNCIL ORGANIZATION
3.1 Newly -Elected Members
3.2 Reorganization
3.3 Selection of Mayor and Mayor Pro Tempore
3.4 Duties of Mayor and Mayor Pro Tempore
3.5 Seating Order
3.6 Representation at Ceremonial Functions
3.6a Issuance of Proclamations and Certificates, Presentation of
Gifts, and Public Recognition
4. COUNCIL ADMINISTRATION
4.1 Salaries and Benefits
4.2 Travel and Expense Reimbursements
4.2a City of Lodi Travel Policy (Adopted 1/5/94)
4.2b Appointment of Delegate/Alternate to National League of Cities
and League of California Cities Annual Conferences
(Res. 96-138)
4.3 Protocol Account Policy (Res. 2000-126)
4.4 Appointment of City Council Appointees (LMC Title 2)
4.5 Evaluation of City Council Appointees (Res. 2002-224)
S. COMMISSIONS
5.1 Commissions
5.2 Commission Appointments
5.3 Commission Responsibility
5.4 Council Contact with Commissions
5.5 Ad Hoc Committees and Task Forces
5.6 Council Service on Commissions
5.7 Regional Boards
City Council Protocol Manual
Page 3 of25
6. MEETING GUIDELINES & PROCEDURES
6.1
Attendance/ Quorum
6.2
Meeting Dates
6.2a
Regular Meetings & Informal Informational (Shirtsleeve)
Sessions
6.2b
Special/Joint/Adjourned/Emergency Meetings
6.3
Agenda
/ Council Meeting
6.3a
Agenda Packet Preparation
6.3b
Placing Items on the Agenda
6.3c
Order of Agenda Items
6.3d
Agenda Posting
6.3e
Americans with Disabilities Act Statement
6.3f
Limitation to Act Only on Items on the Agenda
6.3g
Supplemental Information ("Blue Sheet" Items)
6.3h
Closed Session
6.3i
Invocations
6.3j
Presentations
6.3k
Consent Calendar
6.31
Public Comments
6.3m
Council Comments
6.3n
Public Hearings
6.3o
Regular Calendar
6.3p
Ordinances
6.3q
Resolutions
6.3r
Minute Motion
6.3s
Agency Meetings (LPIC, IDA, LFC, RDA)
6.3t
Shirtsleeve Sessions
6.3u
Council Communications
6.3v
Submitted Materials
6.3w
Minutes
6.4
Rules
of Conduct
6.4a
Discussion Rules
6.4b
Council Comments
6.4c
Speaker Time Limits
6.4d
Council Questions of Speakers
6.5
Decorum
6.5a
Council Members / Council Appointees
6.5b
City Employees
6.5c
Public
6.5d
Noise in the Chamber
6.6
Use of Council Chamber
City Council Protocol Manual
Page 4 of25
7. COMMUNICATIONS
7.1
Processing and Delivering of Mail
7.2
Council Calendar
7.3
Citizen Complaint Process
7.4
Use of City Letterhead or City Seal
7.5
Communications with Staff
7.6
Complaints Regarding Performance of Staff
7.7
Handling of Litigation / Confidential Information
7.8
Representing Majority vs. Individual Opinion
S. CONFLICT OF INTEREST / ECONOMIC DISCLOSURE REQUIREMENTS
FOR PUBLIC OFFICIALS
8.1 Conflict of Interest
8.2 Statements of Economic Interest
8.3 Make and Participate in Making a Decision
8.4 Exceptions
8.5 Provision of Advice
8.6 Using Official Position to Influence
City Council Protocol Manual
Page 5 of25
CITY COUNCIL PROTOCOL MANUAL
1. PURPOSE
The purpose of establishing the City Council Protocol Manual is to provide
guidelines for the City Council to conduct its business in an orderly,
consistent, and fair manner.
The protocols set forth herein are not intended to limit the inherent power
and general legal authority of the City Council. Any of the protocols herein
may be waived by a majority vote of the Council Members when it is deemed
that there is good cause to do so based upon the particular facts and
circumstances.
The protocols shall be amended by a majority vote of the Council Members
and may be amended administratively by the City Clerk's Office in order to
remain current with state and federal law.
2. STATUTORY REQUIREMENTS/ REGULATIONS
Certain state laws and other established regulations exist, which govern
various responsibilities of the City Council. This protocol manual is not
intended to duplicate, fully articulate all requirements, or repeal any existing
statutes or regulations. City Council Members are responsible for becoming
familiar with these statutes and regulations.
2.1 The Brown Act
The Ralph M. Brown Act provides that all meetings of a legislative
body, whether meetings of the City Council or its appointed
commissions and committees, shall be open and public and all persons
shall be permitted to attend. Notices of such meetings must be made
72 hours prior to the meeting (or 24 hours in the case of a special
meeting). A "meeting" takes place whenever a quorum is present and
subject matter related to the City business is heard, discussed, or
deliberated upon.
2.2 Political Reform Act
The Political Reform Act states that public officials shall perform their
duties in an impartial manner, free from bias caused by their own
financial interests or the financial interests of persons who have
supported them. The Political Reform Act establishes regulations
regarding conflicts of interests and campaign receipts and
expenditures.
2.3 Lodi Municipal Code (LMC)
The Lodi Municipal Code consists of those codified ordinances of
general municipal regulations and laws of the City of Lodi.
City Council Protocol Manual
Page 6 of25
2.4 LMC Chapter 2.04 Relating to Council Meetings
LMC Chapter 2.04, "City Council Meetings," sets forth the Regular
Meeting and Shirtsleeve Session dates, times, and location and further
establishes rules for the conduct of City Council meetings. (Attached
as Exhibit A)
2.5 Rules of Conduct of Meetings, Proceedings, and Business
( Res. 2004-282)
Resolution No. 2004-282, adopted by the Lodi City Council on
December 15, 2004, establishes rules for the conduct of City Council
meetings, proceedings, and business. (Attached as Exhibit B)
2.6 City of Lodi Administrative Policy Manual
The Administrative Policy Manual consolidates all administrative
policies and procedures of a general or inter -departmental nature into
one document. Administrative regulations meet the following criteria:
1) are directed toward an ongoing City process or procedure; 2) are
limited to one major subject area; and 3) are applicable to more than
one City department. Administrative regulations are issued from the
City Manager's Office.
2.7 Code of Ethics & Values (Res. 2004-115)
Resolution No. 2004-115, adopted by the Lodi City Council on June 2,
2004, sets forth the code of ethics and values for Lodi City Council
Members and City Council appointees.
The proper operation of democratic government requires that decision -
makers be independent, impartial, and accountable to the people they
serve. The City of Lodi has adopted this code of ethics and values to
promote and maintain the highest standards of personal professional
conduct in the City's government. (Attached as Exhibit C)
3. COUNCIL ORGANIZATION
3.1 Newly -Elected Members
Newly -elected Council Members are sworn into office generally at the
first regular Council meeting in December following a regular municipal
election. Immediately upon election (even before being sworn into
office), newly -elected Council Members are subject to the provisions of
the Brown Act. Newly -elected Council Members shall not be allowed to
attend closed sessions before being sworn into office.
3.2 Reorganization
Pursuant to Lodi Municipal Code Section 2.04.070, "Presiding officer—
Mayor—Mayor Pro Tempore," the reorganization of the Council shall
occur annually at the first regular Council meeting in December by
electing a Mayor and Mayor Pro Tempore.
City Council Protocol Manual
Page 7 of25
A community reception honoring the incoming Mayor, outgoing Mayor,
and Council Members is traditionally held immediately following the
reorganizational meeting.
3.3 Selection of Mayor and Mayor Pro Tempore
The term of office for the Mayor and Mayor Pro Tempore shall be one
year. A majority vote of the Council is necessary to designate a Mayor
and Mayor Pro Tempore. The election of the Mayor and Mayor Pro
Tempore will take place as follows:
00 City Clerk will conduct the election for the office of Mayor.
00 Following the election, the City Clerk will turn over the gavel to the
newly -elected Mayor, who will then conduct the election for the
office of Mayor Pro Tempore.
3.4 Duties of Mayor and Mayor Pro Tempore
The Mayor shall preside at the meetings of the Council. If he/she is
absent or unable to act, the Mayor Pro Tempore shall serve until the
Mayor returns or is able to act.
In the absence of the Mayor and Mayor Pro Tempore, the City Clerk
shall call the Council to order, whereupon a temporary Chairperson
shall be elected by the members of the Council present.
(Refer to LMC Section 2.04.070, "Presiding officer—Mayor—Mayor Pro
Tempore," LMC Section 2.04.080, "Call to order—Temporary chairman," and
Res. 2004-282 for additional duties of Mayor and Mayor Pro Tempore.)
3.5 Seating Order
Following the Council reorganization, the City Clerk shall designate the
seating order for the Council dais.
3.6 Representation at Ceremonial Functions
The Mayor shall represent the Council at ceremonial functions. The
Mayor may, at his/her own discretion, ask another Council Member to
represent the Council at the function.
Council Members shall be reimbursed for admission, meal expenses,
and mileage to attend ceremonial functions, for which the Council
Member was invited to represent the City, pursuant to the City of Lodi
Travel and Business Expense Policy.
3.6a Issuance of Proclamations and Certificates, Presentation of
Gifts, and Public Recognition
PROCLAMATIONS AND CERTIFICATES OF RECOGNITION OR
APPRECIATION: All requests for proclamations and certificates
are subject to approval by and prepared on behalf of the Mayor.
Proclamations and certificates are signed by the Mayor, and are
prepared in response to the type of recognition requested
City Council Protocol Manual
Page 8 of25
(which may include recognition of individuals, groups, and
events of significance to the Lodi community). Proclamations
and certificates may be presented at a City Council meeting or
at an outside event or meeting. Typically, requests are
honored for presentation at a Council meeting only if a local
representative from the requesting agency can appear to
accept the certificate.
PRESENTATION OF GIFTS: Requests for plaques, gifts, or
awards shall be approved by the Mayor, or by the City Council
should the request be over $1,000 (refer to Res. 2000-126,
"Protocol Account Policy").
IN MEMORY OF: A meeting may be dedicated in memory of an
individual at the direction of the Mayor or Member of the City
Council. If the meeting is dedicated, the individual's family will
be mailed a letter by the City Clerk's Office acknowledging the
dedication.
4. COUNCIL ADMINISTRATION
4.1 Salaries and Benefits
Council salaries are established by LMC Chapter 2.08, "City Council
Salaries." Government Code Section 36516 provides specific
restrictions for adjusting Council salaries. Council Members shall be
entitled to certain benefits, as outlined in Resolution No. 2000-211,
which was adopted on November 15, 2000.
4.2 Travel and Expense Reimbursements
The Council shall establish an annual budget for conferences,
meetings, training, and representation at ceremonial functions.
Council Members shall attend these functions at his/her own discretion
for purposes of improving his/her comprehension of and proficiency in
municipal affairs and/or legislative operations.
The expenses of spouses who accompany public officials in the conduct
of their public duties cannot be reimbursed (75 Cal. Op. Att'y. Gen. 20
(1992)).
4.2a City of Lodi Travel Policy (Adopted 1/5/94)
Council Members shall be subject to the City of Lodi Travel
Policy as adopted by the Lodi City Council on January 5, 1994.
4.2b Appointment of Delegate/Alternate to National League of Cities
and League of California Cities Annual Conferences
(Res. 96-138)
Pursuant to Resolution No. 96-138, adopted by the Lodi City
Council on September 18, 1996, the Mayor shall serve as the
voting delegate and the Mayor Pro Tempore shall serve as the
City Council Protocol Manual
Page 9 of25
voting alternate for all National League of Cities and League of
California Cities annual business meetings. In the event the
Mayor and/or Mayor Pro Tempore does not attend the meeting,
the Mayor shall make the selection of the voting alternate
and/or delegate.
4.3 Protocol Account Policy (Res. 2000-126)
Pursuant to Resolution No. 2000-126, adopted by the Lodi City Council
on July 19, 2000, expenses used for such occasions as Council
receptions and business luncheons, joint dinner meetings with various
agencies and organizations, and supplies associated with Mayoral
duties (e.g. plaques and awards, sympathy and congratulation tokens,
etc.) would require specific City Council approval, if over $1,000. A
monthly itemized report of the Protocol Account shall be provided to
the City Council by the City Clerk.
4.4 Appointment of City Council Appointees (LMC Title 2)
Pursuant to LMC Section 2.12.010, "Office established—Appointment—
Qualifications," the office of City Manager is established, which shall be
appointed by the City Council solely on the basis of his/her executive
and administrative qualifications. The powers and duties of the City
Manager are set forth in LMC Section 2.12.060, "Powers and duties
generally."
Pursuant to LMC Chapter 2.13, "City Clerk," the City Clerk shall be
appointed by the City Council, which shall prescribe the qualifications,
additional duties, and compensation of the City Clerk. The powers and
duties of the City Clerk are further set forth in LMC Chapter 2.13, as
well as those specified in California Government Code §40801 et seq.
and other state and local statutes.
Pursuant to LMC Chapter 2.14, "City Attorney," the City Attorney shall
be appointed by the City Council and shall serve as legal counsel to the
City government and all officers, departments, boards, commissions,
and agencies thereof. The powers and duties of the City Attorney are
further set forth in LMC Chapter 2.14, as well as those prescribed by
state law and by ordinance or resolution of the City Council.
4.5 Evaluation of City Council Appointees (Res. 2002-224)
Pursuant to Resolution No. 2002-224, adopted by the Lodi City Council
on November 6, 2002, the City Council shall conduct Council
Appointees' evaluations annually over the course of two City Council
closed session meetings.
The purpose of Council Appointee evaluations is to: 1) motivate
Appointees to work at their highest capacity by jointly establishing job
standards and objectives, review progress toward achieving those
results, and subsequently plan the Appointee's future development;
2) determine an Appointee's performance level to assist in making
appraisals for merit pay increases and disciplinary actions; and
3) serve as a means of communication between City Council and the
Appointee.
City Council Protocol Manual
Page 10 of25
5. COMMISSION APPOINTMENTS
5.1 Commissions
City commissions (which hereinafter include standing Council -
appointed boards, commissions, and committees) serve as advisory
bodies to facilitate public input and citizen participation in the
determination of public policies. This is accomplished by formulating
recommended courses of action and policy to the City Council with
whom final determination rests. The Planning Commission (LMC
Chapter 2.16, 'Planning Commission") has authority to make final
determination in applicable circumstances (see LMC Title 17,
"Zoning").
5.2 Commission Appointments
Resolution No. 2003-156, adopted by the Lodi City Council on August
20, 2003, establishes the policy regarding appointment of persons to
membership on City commissions. Commission applicants, with the
exception of the Greater Lodi Area Youth Commission, must be
registered voters of San Joaquin County, and Site Plan and
Architectural Review Commission applicants must be registered voters
of the City of Lodi. Pursuant to LMC Section 2.16.010, "Established—
Appointment," Planning Commission applicants must be registered
voters of the City of Lodi. Applications are to be accepted by the City
Clerk for 30 days and shall remain valid and on file for one year.
Exception: Full-time and part-time City employees are prohibited from
serving on a commission.
Those seeking appointment to a commission must submit an
application to the City Clerk's Office. Those commissioners whose
terms have expired must submit a new application; terms are not
automatically renewed. Following the close of the 30 -day application
period, copies of all applications will be provided to Council Members
for informational purposes, as well as to the appropriate staff liaisons.
Exception: The Greater Lodi Area Youth Commission may conduct
independent interviews of all applicants, providing the Mayor with a
ranking of the top ten, which he/she shall use in selecting qualified
candidates.
The Mayor may request interviews or otherwise determine a selection
process and shall submit recommendation(s) for appointment to the
City Clerk's Office for placement on the City Council agenda for motion
action.
5.3 Commission Responsibility
Commissioners should respect the public and staff and shall take
seriously their responsibility for reporting to the City Council.
Commissioners shall make a good faith effort to attend all scheduled
meetings and will notify the City liaison if they will be absent. Each
Council -appointed commission shall be designated a staff liaison who
City Council Protocol Manual
Pagel] of25
shall make certain that the commission is properly instructed on its
responsibilities and performance expectations. This may include the
issuance of the commission's bylaws or guidelines, as well as copies of
The Brown Act and Resolution No. 2004-282, "Rules of Conduct of
Meetings, Proceedings, and Business." The City Attorney may from
time to time conduct Brown Act workshops for new commissioners.
Commissioners may address the Council on items discussed by their
respective bodies but should be limited to the chair or a representative
that has been appointed by the commission. This will not take
precedence over any individual's first amendment right to address the
Council as an individual.
5.4 Council Contact with Commissions
Members of the City Council should not attempt to influence or publicly
criticize commission recommendations, or to influence or lobby
individual commission members on any item under their consideration.
It is important for commissions to be able to make objective
recommendations to the City Council on items before them. An
exception to the Brown Act allows a legislative body majority to attend
an open and noticed meeting of a standing committee of the legislative
body provided that the legislative body members who are not
members of the standing committee attend only as observers,
meaning that they cannot speak or otherwise participate in the
meeting.
5.5 Ad Hoc Committees and Task Forces
The City Council, through the City Manager, shall make certain that all
Council -appointed ad hoc committees and task forces are properly
instructed in their assigned scope of work and responsibility. The
expected output of their effort shall be clearly defined. Ad hoc
committees and task forces are responsible for keeping the Council
informed about issues being considered and their progress. This is to
be accomplished by meeting minutes distributed in the Council weekly
packets. Ad hoc committees and task forces are responsible for
advising the Council of any need for information or more specific
instructions. Ad hoc committees and task forces shall obtain Council
concurrence before they proceed in any direction different from the
original instructions of the Council.
5.6 Council Service on Commissions
Council Members are requested to serve on various commissions for
outside agencies. Following a City election, at which new Council
Members are elected, the newly -seated Council shall review the list of
current assignments and make recommendations for appointments.
Any Council Member desiring to serve on a certain commission should
inform the Mayor. Council Members resigning from his/her position on
a certain commission should inform the Mayor (via the City Clerk's
Office) in writing. Appointments are subject to approval by a majority
of Council.
City Council Protocol Manual
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Council representatives to such commissions shall keep the Council
informed of ongoing business through periodic updates under the
"Comments by Council" segment of the regular City Council meeting
agenda or other means as appropriate.
5.7 Regional Boards
The role of the Council on regional boards will vary depending on the
nature of the appointment. Representing interests of Lodi is
appropriate on some boards; this is generally the case when other
local governments have its own representation. Examples might be
serving on the Northern California Power Agency and Northern San
Joaquin County Groundwater Banking Authority. Other appointments,
such as San Joaquin Council of Governments, are broader in nature;
these boards depend on its members taking a more regional approach.
The positions taken by the appointed representative are to be in
alignment with the positions that the Council has taken on issues that
directly impact the City of Lodi. If an issue should arise that is specific
to Lodi and the Council has not taken a position, the issue should be
discussed by the Council prior to taking a formal position at a regional
board to assure that it is in alignment with the Council's position.
6. MEETING GUIDELINES & PROCEDURES
6.1 Attendance/ Quorum
Council Members acknowledge that attendance at lawful meetings of
the City Council is part of their official duty. Council Members shall
make a good faith effort to attend all such meetings unless unable.
Council Members will notify the City Clerk if they will be absent from a
meeting. The City Clerk will then notify the City Manager, City
Attorney, and all other Council Members.
Three members of the City Council shall constitute a quorum and shall
be sufficient to transact business. If less than three appear at a
regular meeting, the Mayor, Mayor Pro Tempore in the absence of the
Mayor, any Council Member in the absence of the Mayor and Mayor
Pro Tempore, or in the absence of all Council Members, the City Clerk,
or his/her designee, shall adjourn the meeting to a stated day and
hour or cancel the meeting due to the lack of a quorum.
Rule of Necessity: If enough Council Members are disqualified (e.g.
conflict of interest) such that a quorum cannot be met the disqualified
Members shall draw lots to rehabilitate a sufficient number of Council
members to permit Council action. Direction from the City Attorney
should be sought to determine that real conflict exists to necessitate
the need to use the Rule of Necessity.
6.2 Meeting Dates
Whenever possible, taking into consideration the number of
participants and room availability, all Council meetings noticed for
action shall be scheduled in the Council Chamber at the Carnegie
Forum to allow for a live cable -cast of a meeting.
City Council Protocol Manual
Page 13 of25
6.2a Regular Meetings & Informal Informational (Shirtsleeve)
Sessions
Pursuant to LMC Chapter 2.04, "City Council Meetings," regular
meeting dates are the first and third Wednesday of each month
commencing at 7 p.m. Informal Informational (Shirtsleeve)
Sessions are held every Tuesday morning at 7 a.m.
6.2b Special/Joint/Adjourned/Emergency Meetings
The Brown Act sets forth specific requirements for holding
adjourned, special, and emergency meetings. The City Council
may from time to time hold special joint meetings with boards
and commissions or outside agencies or groups.
6.3 Agenda / Council Meeting
6.3a Agenda Packet Preparation
The City Manager reviews and approves all items for the
Council agenda. Agenda packets are compiled, photocopied,
converted electronically, posted to the Web, and distributed
through the City Clerk's Office, pursuant to the "City Council
Agendas, Council Communications, and Packet
Policy/Procedure." Agenda packets (in CD format) shall be
delivered to Council Members on the Friday prior to the Council
meeting.
6.3b Placing Items on the Agenda
Pursuant to LMC Section 2.04.180 "Preparation of agendas,"
matters may be placed on the agenda for consideration by
request of 1) any member of the City Council, 2) the City
Manager, 3) the City Clerk, and 4) the City Attorney. If a
request is made by a Council Member at a Council meeting, it is
suggested that a vote be taken, or an indication through
concurrence, that there is an interest by a majority of Council
to hear the matter. Any reasonable request by any person
named in this section shall be honored, subject to the City
Manager's discretion as to the preparation of accompanying
staff reports.
Requests from the public to place an item on the agenda are to
be directed to the City Clerk's Office and shall be handled in the
following manner:
00 Proclamation/Certificate - All requests for proclamations
and certificates are subject to approval of the Mayor and are
typically honored only if a local representative from the
requesting agency can appear to accept the certificate.
00 Presentations - Most requests for presentation by civic
groups and local organizations and requests for recognition
of Eagle Scouts or for excellence in academics, athletics,
etc. shall be honored and placed appropriately under the
"Presentations" segment of the agenda.
City Council Protocol Manual
Page 14 of25
00 Item for Discussion/Action - Requests to place an item for
discussion or action on the agenda shall be directed to the
appropriate City department for proper handling. In the
event it cannot be handled in this manner, the individual
requesting the action should submit in writing his/her
specific request. The City Clerk shall then place the matter
on the agenda under "Communications." The Council shall
not take action on the matter other than to either 1) direct
that the matter be placed on a future agenda or 2) direct
staff to research the issue and report back to Council.
6.3c Order of Agenda Items
Resolution No. 2005-10, adopted by the Lodi City Council on
January 11, 2005, establishes the order of business for City
Council meetings. Topics anticipated to be of greatest interest
to the public will be placed at the beginning of the Regular
Calendar.
6.3d Agenda Posting
The agenda for any regular, special, or Shirtsleeve Session
meeting shall be made available to the general public.
For every regular, special, or Shirtsleeve Session meeting, the
City Clerk, or other authorized person, shall post the agenda,
specifying the time and place at which the meeting will be held
and a brief description of all items of business to be discussed
at the meeting. The agenda shall be posted according to law at
the following locations:
oo Lodi City Hall - 221 W. Pine Street
oo City Clerk's Office - 221 W. Pine Street, 2nd Floor
oo Lodi Carnegie Forum* - 305 W. Pine Street
oo Lodi Public Library - 201 W. Locust Street
00 On the Internet - www.lodi.gov
*NOTE: This is the official City of Lodi posting location freely
accessible to the public 24 hours a day.
6.3e Americans with Disabilities Act Statement
Agendas for all City Council meetings will contain a statement
regarding the Americans with Disabilities Act in substantially
the following language, making the City Clerk the contact for
inquiries.
"NOTE: All staff reports or other written documentation relating to each
item of business referred to on the agenda are on file in the Office of the
City Clerk and are available for public inspection. If requested, the
agenda shall be made available in appropriate alternative formats to
persons with a disability, as required by Section 202 of the Americans
with Disabilities Act of 1990 (42 U.S.C. Sec. 12132), and the federal
rules and regulations adopted in implementation thereof. To make a
request for disability -related modification or accommodation contact the
City Clerk's Office as soon as possible and at least 24 hours prior to the
meeting date."
City Council Protocol Manual
Page 15 of25
6.3f Limitation to Act Only on Items on the Agenda
No action shall be taken by the City Council on any item not on
the posted agenda, subject only to the exceptions listed below:
00 Upon a majority determination that an "emergency
situation" (as defined by state law) exists; and
00 Upon determination by a 4/5 vote of the full City Council, or
a unanimous vote if less than a full Council, that there is a
need to take immediate action and that the need to take the
action came to the attention of the City Council subsequent
to posting of the agenda.
6.3g Supplemental Information ("Blue Sheet" Items)
At times, it may be necessary to amend or provide new
information to Council following the publication of the City
Council packet. Supplemental material that revises a
previously submitted item shall show new information in bold
and deleted information in strikethrough. Supplemental
material that adds further information to a previously submitted
item (e.g. a new Council Communication or attachment) shall
contain the statement "SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION" on the
top, right-hand side of the new material. All supplemental
material shall be copied on blue paper and distributed to
Council Members and key staff members, in addition to the
public information table, prior to the start of the meeting.
6.3h Closed Session
Closed sessions are regulated pursuant to the Brown Act. All
written materials and verbal information regarding closed
session items shall remain confidential. No member of the
Council, employee of the City, or anyone else present shall
disclose to any person the content or substance of any
discussion that takes place in a closed session, unless
authorized by a majority of Council. The same high standard of
respect and decorum as apply to public meetings shall apply to
closed sessions. There shall be courtesy, respect, and
tolerance for all viewpoints and for the right of Council
Members to disagree.
In accordance with Resolution No. 80-101, adopted by the Lodi
City Council on August 6, 1980, the City Clerk is authorized to
attend all closed session meetings to record motions and
actions taken by the City Council. The City Attorney, following
the adjournment of a closed session, shall disclose all
reportable action taken in the closed session, which shall be
recorded into the record by the City Clerk.
City Council Protocol Manual
Page 16 of25
6.3i Invocations
The purpose of conducting invocations is to honor the
importance of religion in the lives of Lodi citizens. Invocations
are not for the purpose of fostering or establishing any religious
belief, but are in recognition of the role that freedom of religion
has played in the history of the country and the contribution
that the faith community makes to the quality of life in Lodi.
Presenters of the invocation before City Council meetings will
be invited from all religious groups who have expressed an
interest in participating. Invocations are to be non-sectarian
and non -denominational.
6.3j Presentations
Special presentations shall be scheduled as necessary in
recognition of persons or groups, or for the promotion of an
event or service. Requests for special presentations must be
submitted to the City Clerk in writing in advance of the agenda
deadline.
6.3k Consent Calendar
Those items on the Council agenda that are considered to be of
a routine and non -controversial nature by the City Manager
shall be listed on the "Consent Calendar." These items so listed
shall be approved, adopted, accepted, etc. by one motion of the
Council.
Council Members may comment on Consent Calendar items or
ask for minor clarifications without the need for pulling the item
for separate consideration. Items requiring deliberation should
be pulled for separate consideration.
6.31 Public Comments
Pursuant to the Brown Act, public comment will be allowed on
specific items of business on the Council agenda before or
during the Council's consideration of the matter. Members of
the public wishing to address Council on a closed session topic
will be allowed an opportunity to do so prior to Council
adjourning to closed session. Public comments will also be
allowed on any item not on the agenda but within the
jurisdiction of the City Council. Public comments on non -
agenda items are limited to five minutes each. Individuals
desiring to speak are encouraged to submit a request to speak
card to the City Clerk listing their name and address.
All comments and testimony shall be made from the podium
through the Mayor; no comment or testimony shall be shouted
from the audience. Comment and testimony are to be directed
to the City Council. Dialogue between and inquiries from
citizens at the podium and members of staff or the seated
audience is not permitted. Inquiries which require staff
response shall be referred to staff for response at a later time.
City Council Protocol Manual
Page 17 of25
The City Council cannot prohibit public criticism of policies,
procedures, programs, or services of the agency or the acts or
omissions of the City Council itself; however, the Brown Act
provides no immunity for defamatory statements. Any person
who addresses the City Council in a manner which disrupts,
disturbs, or impedes the orderly conduct of the meeting may be
asked to terminate his/her comment period. Continued
inappropriate behavior or comments, after having been directed
to discontinue, may be grounds for removal from the meeting.
6.3m Council Comments
Individual Council Members may make comments on any non -
agenda item. Comments are generally for informational
purposes or to request a future report on a matter; it is not
intended for detailed discussion of an item or for action (Gov.
Code Section 54954.3).
6.3n Public Hearings
Public hearings may be required on certain items as prescribed
by the Lodi Municipal Code or by state or federal law. In
addition to the public hearing procedures set forth in Resolution
2004-282, adopted by the Lodi City Council on December 14,
2004, the general procedure for public hearings is as follows:
1. Staff presents its report. Council Members may ask
questions of staff.
2. The Mayor opens the public hearing.
3. The applicant or appellant has the opportunity to
present his/her comments, testimony, or arguments.
Adequate time must be allotted for the applicant or
appellant to present his/her case.
4. Members of the public may present their comments
subject to time limits established by the Mayor.
5. The Mayor closes the public hearing after everyone
wishing to speak has had the opportunity to do so.
6. Council deliberates and takes action.
6.3o Regular Calendar
Those items on the Council agenda that are considered to
require Council discussion or public input shall be listed on the
"Regular Calendar." These items so listed shall be approved,
adopted, accepted, etc. separately by the Council.
City Council Protocol Manual
Page 18 of25
6.3p Ordinances
Ordinances involve a command or prohibition and have the
force of law in the city for which an ordinance is adopted. An
ordinance generally prescribes some permanent rule of conduct
or government that remains in force until the ordinance is
repealed. With the exception of urgency ordinances, no
ordinance may be passed within five days of its introduction.
Two readings are therefore required—one to introduce (on the
Regular Calendar) and a second to adopt the ordinance (under
Ordinances). Ordinances may only be passed at a Regular
meeting or at an Adjourned (i.e. continued) Regular meeting;
except for urgency ordinances, ordinances may not be passed
at a Special meeting. Unless otherwise stated, an ordinance
shall take effect 30 days following the date of adoption.
6.3q Resolutions
A resolution expresses City Council policy or directs certain
types of administrative action and may be changed by a
subsequent resolution. Resolutions are effective on the date of
adoption.
6.3r Minute Motion
A minute motion is the most informal official action taken by
the City Council. It ordinarily is used to indicate majority
approval of a procedural action, such as accepting grant deeds,
approving plans and specifications and agreements, or
otherwise authorizing disposition of an agenda item.
6.3s Agency Meetings (LPIC, IDA, LFC, RDA)
The City Council, which also sits as members of the Lodi Public
Improvement Committee (LPIC), Improvement Development
Authority (IDA), Lodi Financing Committee (LFC), and the
Redevelopment Agency (RDA), shall meet annually at the
second meeting in December to elect new officers. Typically,
the Mayor shall serve as Chairperson or President and the
Mayor Pro Tempore shall serve as the Vice Chairperson or Vice
President. The RDA members are entitled to compensation of
$30 per meeting up to four meetings per month; however, they
may vote to waive the compensation.
6.3t Shirtsleeve Sessions
Pursuant to LMC Section 2.04.020, "Informal Informational
Meetings," the City Council shall meet each Tuesday morning at
the hour of 7 a.m. in the Council Chamberfor an informal study
meeting (Shirtsleeve Session), subject to notice requirements
as provided by law. No formal action shall be taken by the City
Council at such meetings.
City Council Protocol Manual
Page 19 of25
6.3u Council Communications
Each City Council agenda item shall have a coordinating staff
report (Council Communication) prepared by the originating
department. Council Communications are written specifically
for the purpose of communicating information necessary for
policy and decision-making and shall include an abbreviated
history, the overall intent and need for the requested action,
and its impact or affect on the community, services, and
programs of the City.
6.3v Submitted Materials
Any written correspondence or other materials, when
distributed to all, or a majority of all, of the members of the
City Council by any person in connection with a matter subject
to discussion or consideration at a public meeting, are
disclosable public records under the California Public Records
Act and shall be made available upon request without delay.
Writings that are public records and that are distributed during
a public meeting shall be made available for public inspection at
the meeting if prepared by City staff or a member of the City
Council, or after the meeting if prepared by some other person.
All writings referenced herein shall be provided to and
documented with a received/filed date by the City Clerk.
6.3w Minutes
The City Clerk, or his/her designee, shall attend and prepare
comprehensive summary minutes of all public meetings of the
City Council. Minutes ready for Council approval shall be placed
on the regular City Council meeting agenda and included in the
Council packet. Pursuant to LMC Section 2.04.110, "Reading
and approval of minutes," any Council Member can request a
correction or amendment to the minutes, subject to verification
by the City Clerk. It is suggested that Council Members contact
the City Clerk no later than Tuesday before the regular
meeting, which will allow the Clerk time to review the audio
tape to ensure that the requested amendment was verbalized
at the meeting, and if so, make the change to the minutes and
present the amended minutes to Council on the day of the
meeting for approval.
6.4 Rules of Conduct
6.4a Discussion Rules
The Mayor or presiding officer has the responsibility to control
the debate and the order of speakers pursuant to the rules for
conduct of meetings, proceedings, and business as set forth in
Resolution No. 2004-282.
City Council Protocol Manual
Page 20 of25
6.4b Council Comments
Council Members shall limit their comments to the subject
matter, item, or motion being currently considered by the
Council.
6.4c Speaker Time Limits
Members of the public speaking on non -agenda items shall be
limited to five minutes. Where the Council determines that the
existence of unusual or controversial issues exists, that the
large number of speakers wishing to address the Council so
justifies, or that other considerations make modification
appropriate, the Mayor may limit the amount of time to be
afforded each speaker.
6.4d Council Questions of Speakers
Council Members who wish to ask questions of speakers may do
so, but only after being recognized by the Mayor. Members of
Council shall not engage in debate with a member of the public
at Council meetings.
6.5 Decorum
6.5a Council Members / Council Appointees
Resolution No. 2004-115, adopted by the Lodi City Council on
June 2, 2004, establishes the code of ethics and values to be
followed by City Council Members and City Council Appointees
(i.e. City Manager, City Attorney, and City Clerk). Members of
the City Council and Council Appointees value and recognize
the importance of the trust invested in them by the public to
accomplish the business of the City. Council Members and
Appointees shall accord the utmost courtesy to each other, to
City employees, and to the public appearing before the City
Council. At all times, Council Members in the minority on an
issue shall respect the decision and authority of the majority.
6.5b City employees
Members of the City staff are expected to observe the same
rules of order and decorum applicable to the City Council. City
staff shall act at all times in a business professional manner
toward Council Members and members of the public.
6.5c Public
Members of the public attending City Council meetings shall
observe the same rules of order and decorum applicable to the
City Council.
City Council Protocol Manual
Page 21 of25
6.5d Noise in the Chamber
Noise emanating from the audience within the Council Chamber
or lobby area, which disrupts City Council meetings, shall not
be permitted.
6.6 Use of Council Chamber
As set forth in the City of Lodi Administrative Policy and Procedure
Manual, the following are authorized uses of the spaces in the
Carnegie Forum.
1. All meetings of the City Council.
2. All meetings of City boards and commissions when such boards
and commissions are staffed by a City liaison person.
3. Meetings called by a Council Member(s) to discuss City business
with constituents and others.
4. Department Head and other City staff meetings.
5. City employee training sessions.
6. General meetings of City employees for the purpose of
disseminating job-related information.
7. Professional meetings hosted/conducted by City staff.
8. City -sponsored community awareness programs.
Exceptions to this policy may be made only on the authority of the City
Council. The Council Chamber cannot be used as a location for taking
campaign photos. All requests for use of Carnegie Forum spaces shall
be made through the Secretary to the City Manager.
7. COMMUNICATIONS
7.1 Processing and Delivering of Mail
Upon authorization of the City Council Member, the City Clerk shall
open all mail addressed to the Mayor and City Council Members, with
the exception of those marked "Personal" or "Confidential."
Communication Addressed to the "City Council"
All correspondence addressed to the "City Council" is treated as public
information. A copy is made for each member of the City Council, City
Manager, City Attorney, and all other affected departments for
information, referral, or handling. The original document is retained in
the City Clerk's Office file.
Communication Addressed to the "Mayor"
Commonly, the sender's intent when addressing communication to the
"Mayor" is merely to forward it to the head of the city governing body,
and consequently, this type of correspondence is often handled in the
same manner as communication addressed to the "City Council."
Handling of the Mayor's mail is, however, at the discretion of the
individual serving in this capacity, which is ascertained each year
following the reorganization of the City Council.
City Council Protocol Manual
Page 22 of25
Communication Addressed to Individual Council Members
Communication addressed specifically to individual City Council
Members is treated as personal mail and is only opened by the City
Clerk's Office if express authorization to do so was given by the
Council Member. No copies are made or distributed. Should a
response be needed, it is up to the individual Council Member to whom
the correspondence was addressed, as is forwarding the information to
affected departments if appropriate.
7.2 Council Calendar
An Annual Calendar List of Events shall be prepared by the City Clerk's
Office, which includes City -related events, functions, meetings, and
annual conferences. A weekly calendar is also prepared by the City
Clerk and distributed to each Council Member, Administrative staff,
and the press for informational purposes. It shall be the responsibility
of the Council Members to notify the City Clerk of their attendance at
an event, for which the City Clerk will handle the arrangements.
7.3 Citizen Complaint Process
All complaints directed to the Mayor or City Council Members (via
letter, e-mail, facsimile, verbal, or voice mail) shall be given to the
City Council and a copy forwarded to the City Manager's Office for
tracking purposes, as well as to the City Attorney and all other
affected departments.
Council Members are discouraged from responding directly to
complaints without first coordinating with the City Manager's office to
ensure a unified response and to prevent dual efforts in the event
another department is already preparing a response. Staff will copy or
otherwise communicate their response to the City Council.
7.4 Use of City Letterhead or City Seal
All Council Member correspondence written on City resources, i.e.
letterhead, staff support, postage, etc., will reflect the position of the
full Council, not individual Council Members' positions. All Council
Member correspondence using City resources shall be copied to the full
Council. The City Clerk is the custodian of the Official City Seal
pursuant to Lodi Municipal Code 2.13.010. The City Seal shall not be
altered and is to be used only on official City documents.
7.5 Communications with Staff
Pursuant to LMC Section 2.12.070, "Council to Deal Exclusively
through City Manager," the City Council and its members, except for
the purpose of inquiry, shall deal with administrative services solely
through the City Manager, and neither the City Council nor any
member thereof shall give orders to any of the subordinates of the City
Manager. A Council Member shall not direct staff to initiate any action,
change a course of action, or prepare any report that is significant in
nature, nor shall a Council Member initiate any project or study
without the approval of a majority of Council. Exception: Pursuant to
LMC Title 2.13 and 2.14, the City Attorney and City Clerk are
appointed by the City Council and shall report his/her advice,
recommendations, and requests directly to the City Council.
City Council Protocol Manual
Page 23 of25
In regard to an agenda item question, Council Members are
encouraged to contact staff members to ask questions for clarification
prior to the meeting, at which the subject will be discussed.
7.6 Complaints Regarding Performance of Staff
Any concerns by a member of Council over the behavior or work of a
City employee should be directed to the City Manager privately to
ensure the concern is resolved. Council Members shall not reprimand
employees directly, nor shall they communicate their concerns to
anyone other than the City Manager.
7.7 Handling of Litigation / Confidential Information
Council Members shall keep all written materials and verbal
information provided to them on matters that are confidential under
state law in complete confidence to ensure that the City's position is
not compromised. No disclosure or mention of information in these
materials shall be made to anyone other than Council Members, the
City Attorney, or City Manager.
7.8 Representing Majority vs. Individual Opinion
A person elected to City Council plays two roles: a member of a body
elected to represent the City in its entirety and a private resident of
the City. The second role is not relinquished when the first role is
assumed. It is important to distinguish between the two roles at all
times and to conduct business in one role separately from the other.
The elected Council Member retains the right to speak as an individual,
not as a member of the City Council, but must make it very clear that
he/she speaks on his/her own behalf and not as a member of the City
Council. This is because when the Council acts, it acts as a whole, not
as a group of individuals.
If a member of the City Council appears before another governmental
agency or organization to give a statement on an issue affecting the
City, the Council Member should first indicate the majority position and
opinion of the Council. Personal opinions and comments may be
expressed only if the Council Member clarifies that these statements
do not represent the position of the City Council.
S. CONFLICT OF INTEREST / ECONOMIC DISCLOSURE REQUIREMENTS
FOR PUBLIC OFFICIALS
8.1 Conflict of Interest
The Political Reform Act (Government Code, Title 9, Sections 81000-
91015) controls conflict of interest through disclosure and prohibition
of participation in decisions, which are actual conflicts of interest.
Specifically, it requires City Council Members and other public officials
to annually disclose all financial interests that may be affected by
decisions made in their official capacity; this includes interests such as
City Council Protocol Manual
Page 24 of25
investments, real property, and income. Council Members must also
disqualify themselves from making or participating in making or
influencing any governmental decision that will have a foreseeable
material financial affect on any economic interest of the Council
Member or certain family members.
The Political Reform Act requires state and local government agencies
to adopt and promulgate conflict of interest codes, which shall be
reviewed bi-annually on even -numbered years. On December 1,
2004, the Lodi City Council adopted Resolution No. 2004-268
amending the City of Lodi's Conflict of Interest Code.
8.2 Statements of Economic Interest
A financial disclosure form (Statement of Economic Interest) must be
filed with the City Clerk no later than April 1 of each year for financial
interests pertaining to the preceding calendar year. Newly -elected
Council Members must file a statement within 30 days of officially
assuming office. Certain commission members and City employees
are also subject to this disclosure requirement.
8.3 Make and Participate in Making a Decision
An official makes a decision when the official votes on a matter,
appoints a person, obligates or commits the City to any course of
action, or enters into any contract on behalf of the City. Pursuant to
LMC 2.04.140, Voting," all members of the Council, when present,
must vote. If a member of the Council states that he/she is not
voting, his/her silence shall be recorded as an affirmative vote unless,
however, the Council Member abstains from voting by reason of
his/her interest in the matter before the Council and that reason is
stated at the meeting.
An official participates in making a decision when the official negotiates
on behalf of the City without significant substantive review, or advises
or makes recommendations to the decision maker, either directly or
without significant intervening substantive review.
8.4 Exceptions
Making or participating in the making of a decision does not include
ministerial, secretarial, manual or clerical actions, appearances by the
official as a member of the general public before any body of the City
in the course of its prescribed governmental function to represent
himself/herself on matters related solely to his/her personal interest.
8.5 Provision of Advice
Any official who is uncertain as to whether he/she may have a conflict
of interest shall seek clarification from the City Attorney; however, the
official must understand that the City Attorney may not keep the
consultation confidential from the full Council, and the City Attorney's
City Council Protocol Manual
Page 25 of25
opinion is not a defense to a Fair Political Practices Commission (FPPC)
enforcement action. When in doubt, the City Attorney can request a
formal opinion from the FPPC if the request is made at least four
weeks in advance.
8.6 Using Official Position to Influence
Council Members shall not attempt to coerce or influence any member,
officer, official, consultant, or commission member of the City in the
awarding of contracts, the selection of consultants, the processing of
development applications, or the granting of City licenses or permits.
The Council shall not attempt to change or interfere with the operating
policies and practices of any City department.
11
2.04,010 Ra ineefings—Day
and time.
Regular meetings of the council shall be
held on the first and third Wednesday of
each month at seven p.m.; provided, howev-
er, that any such regular meeting at which
a closed session is to be held may be corn -
11
menced, for the holding of such closed
session, at such earlier time on the meeting
day as may be noticed on the council's
agenda and posted at least seventy-two
hours in advance of such earlier commence-
ment time. In the event of any such earlier
commencement of a regular meeting for the
purpose of holding a closed session, no
other items of business on the council's
meeting agenda shall be, addressed before
seven p.m. In case the regular meeting falls
upon a legal holiday, then the regular meet-
ing which otherwise would have occurred
on that day shall be held on the first busi-
ness day thereafter at the hour of seven p.m.
(Ord. 1699 § 1, 2001)
104.020 Informal informational
meetings.
Informal informational meetings of the
city council shall be held on each Tuesday
morning of each month at the hour of seven
a.m. in the council chambers of the city or
at such location and at such time as the
council rnay deem appropriate, subject to
notice requirements as provided by law. No
formal action shall be taken by the city
council at such meetings. The city manager,
city attorney, department heads and mem-
bers of the public, as the council may re-
quest, shall be present and present such
information as may be deemed desirable.
(Ord. 1594 § I (part), 1994)
2,04M30 Meeting place.
All regular meetings of the council shall
be held in the council chambers, Carnegie
Forum Building, Lodi, Califomia, or at such
other place as the council may deem appro-
priate, subject to notice requirements as
provided by law. If by reason of fire, flood,
earthquake or other emergency, it is unsafe
11 (Lodi 7-01)
to meet in the plat.e so designated, the
meetings may be held for the duration of
the emergency at such puce as is designat-
ed by the mayor, (Ord. 1594 § I (part),
1994)
2.04.0.40 Meetings to be public.
All meetings of the council shall be open
to the public, (Ord. 1594 § I (part), 1994)
2.04,050 Special meetings.
At any time the mayor or three city
council members may call a special meeting
by delivering written notice to each member
and to each local newspaper of general
circulation, radio or television station re-
questing notice in writing, such notice to be
delivered personally or by mail at least
twenty-four hours before the time of such
meeting. Written notice may be dispensed
with if a representative of the newspaper,
radio or television station is present at the
meeting and if all council members give
their written consent to the meeting and the
consent is filed in the city clerk's office
when the meeting is held. A council mem-
ber may give such consent by telegram.
(Ord. 1594 § I (part), 1994)
2.04.060 Quorum.
A majority of all members elected to the
council shall constitute a quorum at any
regular or special. meeting of the council.
Unless otherwise requimd by law, a simple
majority of the members present may take
action or adopt ordinances or resolutions.
(Ord., 1594 § I (part), 1994)
2.04.070 Presiding officer—
Mayor—Mayor pro
tempore.
The presiding officer of the council shall
(LO6 7-01) 12
be the mayor who shall be elected by the
council annually at the first regular meeting
after the canvass of votes done in conjunc-
tion with the statewide general election in
even -numbered years. In years where there
is no general statewide election, the mayor
shall be elected at the first regular meeting
in December, At the time of the election of
the mayor, one of the members of the coun-
cil shall be chosen as mayor pro tempore.
If the mayor is absent or unable to act, the
mayor pro tempore shall serve until the
mayor returns or is able to act. The mayor
shall preserve strict order and decorum at
all regular and special meetings of the coun-
cil. He shall state every question coming
before the council, call for the vote, an-
nounce the decision of the council on all
subjects and decide all questions of order,
subject, however, to an appeal to the coun-
cil, in which event a majority vote of the
council shall govern and conclusively deter-
mine such question of order. He shall sign
all ordinances adopted by the council during
his presence. In the event of the absence of
the mayor, the mayor pro tempore shall sign
ordinances as then adopted. (Ord. 1594 § I
(part), 1994)
2.04.080 Call to order—Temporary
chairman.
The mayor, or in his/her absence the
mayor pro tempore, shall take the chair at
the hour appointed for the meeting, and
shall immediately call the council to order.
In the absence of the mayor or mayor pro
tempore, the city clerk, or the acting city
clerk shall call the council to order where-
upon a temporary chairperson shall be elect-
ed by the members of the council present.
Upon the arrival of the mayor or mayor pro
tempore, the temporary chairperson shall
or 9M
immediately relinquish the chair upon the
conclusion of the business immediately
before the council. (Ord. 1594 § I (part),
1994)
2.04.090 Roll call.
Before proceeding with the business of
the council at regular, special or informa-
tional sessions, the city clerk or the acting
city clerk shall call the roll of the members,
and the names of those present shall be
entered in the minutes. (Ord. 1594 § I
(part), 1994)
104.100 Order of business --
Assembly of oMeers.
All meetings of the council shall be open
to the public, except for closed sessions as
permitted by law. 'The council shall provide
by resolution the order of business for
regular meetings of the council, and shall
provide therein for public comment as
required by law. In attendance shall be the
city manager, the city clerk, and the city
attorney or their authorized designees. (Ord
1699 § 2, 2(01)
2.04.110 Reading and approval of
minutes,
Unless the reading of the minutes of a
council meeting is requested by a majority
of the council, such minutes may be ap-
proved without reading if the city clerk has
previously furnished each member with a
copy thereof Any council member can
correct an error in the minutes, subject to
verification by the clerk. (Ord. 1594 § I
(part), 1994)
2.04.120 Rules of debate.
The council shall, by resolution, adopt
E
13
rules of conduct and debate applicable .to.all
city council meetings. (Ord. 1594 § I (part),
1994)
2.04.130 Addressing the councH.
A. Any interested person may, subject
to the rules of procedure adopted hereunder,
speak on any item coming before the coun-
cil. It shall not be required that persons
wishing to speak give prior written notice,
but priority shall be given to those who
have so notified the city clerk in advance.
13, After a motion is made and second-
ed, no person shall address the city council
without first securing permission of the
council to do so.
C. Remarks by the public shall be made
only from the podium. Speakers shall first
give their names and addresses for the re-
cord, and no one shall be permitted to enter
into any discussion without permission of
the presiding officer. (Ord, 1594 § I (part),
1994)
2.04.140 Voting.
All members of the council, when pres-
ent, must vote. If a member of the council
states that he is not voting, his silence shall
be recorded as an affirmative vote unless,
however, the council member abstains from
voting by reason of his/her interest in the
matter before the council and that reason is
stated at the meeting. (Ord. 1594 § I (part),
1994)
A. Council Members. Miile the council
is in session, the members must preserve
order and decorum, and a member shall
neither, by conversation or otherwise, delay
or interrupt the proceedings or the peace of
the council nor disturb any member while
(Lodi 7-01)
2:04.150
s g or refuse to obey the orders of the
council or its presiding officer, except as
otherwise provided by this chapter. Any
member who, after warning by the char,
repeatedly violates these reales may be eject-
ed for the remainder of the meeting by two-
thirds vote of the council,
B. Other Persons. Any person making
personal, impertinent or slanderous remarks
or who becomes boisterous during the coun-
cil meeting shall be forthwith, by the pre-
siding officer, bayed from further audience
at the meeting More the council, unless
permission to continue is granted by a ma-
jority vote of the council.
C. Any violation of this section may be
punished as an infraction pursuant to Sec-
tion 1.08.010 of this code. (Ord. 1594 § 1
(part), 1994)
2404.160 Persons allowed within
No person, except city officials, their
representatives and newsgathering or media
personnel, shall be permitted within the rail
in front of the council chamber during
meetings, without the express consent of the
council. (Ord.. 159. § 1 (Part), 1994)
2.04.170 Entry of dissent in
minutes.
Any council member shall have the right
to have the reasons for his dissent from, or
protest against, any action of the council
entered on the minutes. (Ord. 1594 § 1
(Fart), 1994)
2,04.180 Preparation of agendas.
A. Consistent with the provisions of the
Ralph M. Brown Act (Government Code
Section 54950 et soq.), the agenda for
council meetings shall be prepared by the
(aGai 7-01) 14
city manager, and distributed by the city
clerk.
B. Matters may be placed on the agenda
for consideration by the city council by
request of:
1. Any member of the city council;
2. The city manager;
3. The city clerk;
4. The city attorney.
C. Any reasonable request by any per-
son named in this section to place a matter
on the agenda shall be honored, subject to
the city manager's discretion as to the prep-
aratioD of accompanying staff reports. (Ord.
1594 § 1 (part), 1994)
2.04.190 Closed session & --
Confidentiality.
A. leo officer, employee or agent of the
LI
0
J
E
city shah, without proper authorization,
divulge confidential information received by
such person as pan of his or her official
duties during any closed session of the city
council authorized -under the Ralph M.
Brown Act (Government Code Section
54950 et seq.) as it now exists or may later
be rnodfficd.
B. Such confidential information may
include but is not limited to matters involv-
ing pending litigation, property acquisition,
labor negotiations, personnel matters or
other information, the disclosure of wWch
would reasonably be likely to prejudice the
good faith conduct of city busin(,-ss, consti-
tute an unwarranted invasion of privacy, or
place the city at an unfair disadvantage in
negotiations.
C. For purposes of this section, "proper
authorization" means:
1. In matters of personal privacy, a
waiver by the individual enjoying such right
of privacy',
2. The order or subpena of a court of
competent jurisdiction;
13. Authorization by the city council as
a body;
4. Conclusion or finalization of the
matter or subject involved, as determined by
the city council.
D, Nothing in this chapter shall be
deemed a waiver of any other confidential
privilege for any information established
elsewhere by statute orcase law. (Ord. 1594
§ 1 (part), 1994)
15
EXHIBIT B
R.XT,0JKUtfflM�► i
WHEREAS, the Lodi City Council, pursuant to Chapter 2.04 of the Lodi !Municipal
Code, is empowered and required to adapt by resolution, rubs of conduct for City
Council meetings; and
WHEREAS, it is desirable to make such procedural rubs applicable to all other
boards, commissions, and committees of the City.
TheMayor or presiding officer may move, second, and debate from the chair,
subject only to such limitations of debate as are by these vales established. The
chair shall not be deprived of any of the rights and privileges of a Council or
board member by reason of being the presiding officer.
Any member of the Council or board wishing to speak must first obtain the floor
by being recognized by the chair. The chair must recognize any member who
seeks the floor when appropriately entitled to do so.
C. Motions -
The chair or any member of the Council or board may bring any matter of
business appearing on the agenda before the beady by making a motion. The
chair shall open the matter for debate, offering the first opportunity to debate to
the moving party and, thereafter, to any other member properly recognized by
the chair. Once the matter has been fully debated and seconded and the chair
calls for a vote, no further debate will be allowed; provided, however, Council or
board members may be allowed to explain their vote. The person making the
rnotiori shall have the privilege of closing debate.
D. Monnet.
All members present at a meeting shall vote when the question is called, subject
to the provisions of Lodi [Municipal Code Section 2.04.140.
E. Procedural Rules of Order.
Once the main motion is properly placed on the floor, several related motions
may be employed in addressing the main motion. These motions take
precedence over the main motion and, if properly made and seconded, must be
disposed of before the main motion can be acted upon. The following motions
are appropriate and may be made by the chair or any Council or board member
at any :appropriate time during the discussion of the main motion. They are listed
in order of precedence. The first three subsidiary motions are non -debatable; the
last four are debatable.
LIM
—Lay on —the Table. Any member may move to lay the matter under
discussion on the table. The motion temporarily suspends any further
discussion or the pendin
..g motion without setting a time certain to resume
debate. It must be moved and seconded and passed by a majority vote.
To bring the matter back before the body, a member must move that the
matter be taken from the table, seconded, and passed by a majority.
A motion to take from the table must be made at the same meeting at
which it was placed on the table or at the next regular meeting of the
body; otherwise, the motion that was tabled dies, although, it can be
raised later as a new motion.
2. Move Previous Q, -+ig . Any member may move to immediately bring
the question being debated to a vote, suspending any further debate.
The motion must be made and seconded without interrupting one who
already has the floor. A two-thirds vote is required for passage,
3. Limit or Extend Limits of rlaknfe. Any member may move to put limits on
or extend the length of debate. The motion must be made and seconded
and requires a two-thirds vote to pass.
4. most one to a Time Certain.
Any member may move to postpone the
pending motion to a time certain. This motion continues the pending
main motion to a future date as determined by the Council or board at the
time the motion is passed, The motion must be seconded and requires a
majority vote for passage,
5. Commit or r. Any member may move that the matter being
discussed should be referred to a committee, commission, or staff for
further study. The motion must be seconded and requires a majority vote
for passage. The motion may contain directions for the committee or
commission, as well as a date upon which the matter will be returned to
the Council or board's agenda. If no date is set for returning the item to
the Council or board's agenda, any member may move, at any time, to
require the item be returned to the agenda.. The motion must be
seconded and a majority vote is required for passage if the item is to
come back at a future date certain, or a two-thirds vote if the item is to be
immediately discussed by the Council or board at the time the motion to
return is made.
6. Emend. Any member may amend the main motion or any amendment
made to the main motion. Before the main motion may be acted upon, all
amendments and amendments to amendments must first be acted upon.
A motion to amend must be seconded and requires a majority vote for
passage. An amendment must be related to the main motion or
amendment to which it is directed. Any amendment which substitutes a
new motion rather than amending the existing motion is out of order and
may be so declared by the chair.
7. PostDone Indefinitely. Any member may move to postpone indefinitely
the motion on the floor, thus avoiding a direct vote on the pending motion
and suspending any further action on the matter. The motion must be
seconded and requires a majority vote for passage.
The following actions by the Council or board are to insure orderly conduct •
.. .r
tngs and for the convenience of the members. These motions take
precedence over any pending main or subsidiary motion and may or may not be
debated as noted,
Q211 for Orders of.the Day. Any member may demand that the agenda be
followed in the order stated therein. No second is required and the chair
must comply unless the Council or board, by majority vote, sets aside the
orders of the day.
Z Question of Privile e. Any member, at any time during the meeting, may
make a request of the chair to accommodate the needs of the body or
his/her personal needs for such things as reducing noise, adjusting air
conditioning, ventilation, lighting, etc. Admissibility of question is ruled on
by the chair.
3, Becess. Any member may move for a recess. The motion must tM
seconded and a majority vote is required for passage. The motion
debatable. i
4, AdLourn, Any member may move to adjourn at any time, even if there is
business pending. The motion must be seconded and a majority vote is
required for passage. The motion is not debatable.
5. a0int of Order. Any member may require the chair to enforce the rules of
the Council or board by raising a point of order. The point of order shall
be ruled upon by the chair.
6. meal. Should any member be dissatisfied with a ruling from the chair,
he/she may move to appeal the ruling to the full Council or board. The
motion must be seconded to put it before the Council or board. A majority
vote in the negative or a tie vote sustains the ruling of the chair. The
motion is debatable and the chair may participate in the debate.
G
7. Suspend the Rules. Any member may move to suspend the rules if
necessary to accomplish a matter that would otherwise violate the rules.
The motion requires a second and a two-thirds vote is required for
passage.
Divisiqn of Question. Any member may move to divide the subject matter
of a motion which is made up of several parts in order to vote separately
on each part. The motion requires a second and a majority vote for
passage. This motion may also be applied to complex ordinances or
resolutions.
9. Beconsider, Except for votes regarding matters which are quasi-judicial
in nature or matters which require a noticed public hearing, the Council or
board may reconsider any vote taken at the same session, but no later
than the same or next regular meeting, to correct inadvertent or
precipitant errors, or consider new information not available at the time of
the vote. The motion to reconsider must be made by a member who
voted on the prevailing side, must be seconded, and requires a majority
vote for passage, regardless of the vote required to adopt the motion
being reconsidered. If the motion to reconsider is successful, the matter
to be reconsidered takes no special precedence over other pending
matters and any special voting requirements related thereto still apply.
Except pursuant to a motion to reconsider, once a matter has been
determined and voted upon, the same matter cannot be brought up again
at the same meeting.
10. tR eq sg og inn dq, R
_Deal �®r Annul. The Council or board may rescind, repeal, or
annul any prior action taken with reference to any legislative matter so
long as the action to rescind, repeal, or annul complies with all the rules
applicable to the initial adoption, including any special voting or notice
requirements or unless otherwise specified by law.
Subject. to appeal, the chair shall be the chief parliamentarian, rule on points of
order, and shall have the authority to prevent the misuse of the legitimate form of
motions, or the abuse of privilege of renewing certain motions, to obstruct the
busine.ss of the Council or board by ruling such motions out of order. In so ruling,
the chair shall be courteous and fair and should presume that the moving party is
making the motion in good faith.
Matters which are required to be heard at a noticed public hearing shaft be
conducted in the following manner.
I Time for Con-*-,'-,-,-,--. Matters noticed to be heard by the Council or
board shall comme . nee at the time specified in the notice of hearing, or as
soon thereafter as is reasonably possible, and shall continue until the
same has bee n completed or until other disposition of the matter has
been made.
2, Contin ante of Hearings. Any hearing being held or noticed or ordered
to be hold by the Council or board at any meeting may, by order or notice
of continuance, be continued or re -continued to any subsequent meeting
in the manner provided herein for adjourned meetings; provided, that if
the hearing is continued to a time less than. 24 hours after the time
specified in the order or notice of hearing, a copy of the order or notice of
continuance of hearing shall be posted immediately following the meeting
at which the order or notice of continuance was adopted or made.
3. Pq!2§;L.QI§j �issio�nt I-learj lg. When a matter for public hearing comes
before the body, the chair shall open the public hearing. Upon opening
the public hearing and before any motion is adopted related to the merits
of the issue to be heard, the chair shall inquire if there are any persons
present who desire to speak on the matter which is to be heard or to
present evidence respecting the matter. Any person desiring to speak or
present evidence shall make his/her presence known to the chair and
upon being recognized by the chair, the person may speak or present
evidence relevant to the matter being heard. No person may speak
without first being recognized by the chair. Members who wish to ask
questions of the speakers or each other during the public hearing portion,
may do so but only after first being recognized by the chair. The chair
shall conduct the meeting in such a manner as to afford due process.
Time limits may be established by the chair, limiting the duration of
presentations as set forth in these rules.
All persons interested in the matter being heard shall be entitled to submit
written evidence or remarks, as well as other graphic evidence. All such
evidence presented shall be retained by the City Clerk or secretary of the
board as part of the record. No person shall be permitted during the
hearing to speak about matters or present evidence which are not
germane to the matter being considered, A determination of relevance
shall be made by the chair, but may be appealed as set forth in these
rules.
4. After all members of the
public desiring to souk upon the subject of the hearing have been given
an opportunity to do so, the public hearing shall be closed by the chair,
and the body may consider what disposition they wish to make of the
question or questions presented at the hearing. No member of the public
shall be allowed, without consent of the chair, to speak further on the
question during this period of deliberation; although, the members may
ask questions of the speakers if so desired. At the conclusion of
discussion and appropriate motion having been made and seconded, the
body shall vote on the matter.
New Business, Introduction.
During Council meetings, no new business on the. agenda (except closed
sessions) shall be considered after 11:00 p.m. without two-thirds vote of the
Council. Any new business remaining on the agenda shall be carried over to the
next regular Council meeting.
J.
As used in this resolution or in the application of Lodi Municipal Code Chapter
2.04, the following definitions shall apply:
"Quorum" shall mean a simple majority of the total number of all persons
on such body.
2. "Majority" shall mean the majority of members actually present at a
meeting.
3. "Two-thirds vote" shall mean two-thirds vote of the members actually
present, rounded up or to the next number if less than a whole person,
Two-thirds of four members shall be three members; two-thirds of five
members shall be four members; etc,
SECTION 2. This Resolution shall become effective immediately.
Dated: December 15,2004
..........
I hereby certify that Resolution No. 2004-282 was passed and adopted by the
City Council of the City of Lodi in a regular meeting held December 15, 2004, by the
following vote,
AYES: COUNCIL MEMBERS — Hansen, Hitchcock, Johnson, and
Mayor Beckman
NOES: COUNCIL MEMBERS — Mounce
ABSENT: COUNCIL MEMBERS — None
ABSTAIN: COUNCIL MEMBERS — None
SUSAN J. BLACKSTON
City Clerk
EXHIBIT C
RESOLUTION NO. 2004-115
BE IT RESOLVED that the City of Lodi Code of Ethics and Values, as shown on
Exhibit A attached hereto, is hereby adopted by the City Council of the City of Lodi to be
effective immediately, and
FURTHER RESOLVED that this resolution shall apply to Lodi City Council
Members and City Council Appointees (i.e. City Manager, City Attorney, and City Clerk).
Dated., June 2, 2004
1 hereby certify that Resolution No. 2004-115 was passed and adopted by the
City Council of the City of Lodi in a regular meeting held June 2, 2004, by the following
vote,
AYES: COUNCIL MEMBERS — Beckman, Hitchcock, Howard, Land, arR
Mayor Hansen I
SUSAN J. BLACKSTON
City Clerk
CITY OF LODI
Code of r.
Valui
PREAMBLE
The proper operation of democratic government requires that decision -makers be
independent, impartial, and accountable to the people they serve. The City of
Lodi has adopted this Code of Ethics and Values to promote and maintain the
highest standards of personal professional conduct in the City's government. All
elected and appointed officials are required to subscribe to this Code, understand
how it applies to their specific responsibilities, and practice its eight core values
in their work. Because we seek public confidence in the City's services and
public trust of its decision -makers, our decisions and our work must meet the
most demanding ethical standards and demonstrate the highest levels of
achievement in following this Code.
1. As a representative of the City of Lodi, I will be ethical.
In practice, this value looks like.
a) I am trustworthy, acting with the utmost integrity and moral courage.
b) I am truthful, do what I say I will do, and am dependable.
C) l make impartial decisions, Free of bribes, unlawful gifts, narrow political interests,
and financial and other personal interest that impair my independence of
judgment or action.
d) I am fair, distributing benefits and burdens according to consistent and equitable
criteria.
e) I extend equal opportunities and due process to all parties in matters under
consideration. If I engage in unilateral meetings and discussions, I do so without
making voting decisions.
f) I show respect for persons, confidences, and information designated as
"confidential" to the extent permitted by California law.
g) I use my titles) only when conducting official City business, for information
purposes, or as an indication of background and expertise, carefully considering
whether I am exceeding or appearing to exceed my authority.
2. As a representative of the City of Lodi, I will be professionals
In practice, this value looks like:
a) I apply my knowledge and expertise to my assigned activities and to the
interpersonal relationships that are part of my job in a consistent, confident,
competent, and productive manner.
b) I approach my jots and work-related relationships with a positive attitude.
C) I keep my professional knowledge and skills current and growing.
. As a representative of the City of Lodi, I will be service-oriented.
In practice, this value looks like:
a) I provide friendly, receptive, courteous service to everyone.
b) I am attuned to, and care about, the needs and issues of citizens, public officials,
and City workers.
C) In ray interactions with constituents, 1 am interested, engaged, and responsive.
poiscy/CodeOffithi cs.doc
CITY OF LOBI
CODE OF ETHICS
Pacre 2 of 2
4. As a representative of the City of Lodi., I will be fiscally responsible.
In practice, this value looks like:
a) I make decisions after prudent consideration of their financial impact, taking into
account the long-term financial needs of the City, especially its financial stability.
b) I demonstrate concern for the proper use of City assets (e.g. personnel, time,
property, equipment, and funds) and follow established procedures.
c) 1 make good financial decisions that seek to preserve programs and services for
City residents.
. As a representative of the City of Lodi, I will be organized.
In practice, this value looks life:
a) I act in an efficient manner, making decisions and recommendations based upon
research and facts, taking into consideration short- and long-term goals.
b) I follow through in a responsible way, keeping others informed, and responding in
a timely fashions
C) I am respectful of established City processes and guidelines.
. As a representative of the City of Lodi, I will be communicative.
In practice, this value looks like:
a) I convey the City's care for and commitment to its citizens.
b) I communicate in varices ways that I am approachable, open-minded, and willing
to participate in dialog.
C) I engage in effective two-way communication, by listening carefully, asking
questions, and determining ars appropriate response, which adds value to
conversations.
7. As a representative of the City of Lodi, I will be collaborative.
In practice, this value looks like;
a) f act in a cooperative manner with groups and other individuals, working together
in a spirit of tolerance and understanding.
b) I work toward consensus -building and gain value from diverse opinions.
C) I accomplish the goals and responsibilities of my individual position, while
respecting my role as a member of a team.
d) I consider the broader regional and state-wide implications of the City's decisions
and issues.
6. As a representative of the City of Lodi, I will be progressive.
In practice, this value looks like.-
a)
ike.a) I exhibit a proactive, innovative approach to setting goals and conducting the
City's business.
b) I display a style that maintains consistent standards, but is also sensitive to the
need to compromise, "thinking outside the box," and improving existing
paradigms when necessary.
C) I promote intelligent and thoughtful innovation in order to forward the City's policy
agenda and City services.