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TO: Honorable Mayor and Members of the City Council
ATTENTION: Ryan Smoot, City Manager
FROM: Mayra Ochiqui, City Clerk
SUBJECT: Consideration and possible action to adopt the following Resolutions:
Resolution No. 25-12 – A Resolution establishing a Code of Conduct in accordance with Government Code § 36813, and superseding Resolution No. 21-55; and
Resolution No. 25-13 – A Resolution establishing Rules of Procedure for conducting City Council meetings in accordance with Government Code § 36813, and superseding Resolution Nos. 05 -45, 11-75, 20-13, and 21-55.
DATE: March 10, 2025
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
If adopted, Resolution No. 25-12 (Code of Conduct) will separate the Code of Conduct from the Rules of Procedure for conducting City Council meetings. No changes were made to the text of the Code of Conduct.
If adopted, Resolution No. 25-13 (Rules of Procedure) will update the Rules of Procedure for conducting City Council Meetings and combine the following Resolutions into one for better tracking and recordkeeping: Resolution No. 05-45 (order of business on the agenda; adopted July 11, 2005), Resolution No. 11 -75 (action minutes; adopted December 12, 2011), Resolution No. 20-13 (Virtual Meeting Protocols; adopted April 6, 2020), and Resolution No. 21-55 (Rules for Conducting Council Meetings; adopted September 27, 2021).
RECOMMENDATION TO CITY COUNCIL
1) Adopt Resolution Nos. 25-12 and 25-13; or
2) Alternatively, discuss and take other action related to this item.
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1: BELLF
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*‘ Sitafteport
Staff Report – Updates to Code of Conduct and Rules of Procedure March 10, 2025
FISCAL IMPACT
None.
DISCUSSION
Following a recent review of the Rules of Procedure for conducting City Council meetings and consultation with the City Attorney, the City Clerk determined that it would be best to separate Resolution No. 21-55 into two separate resolutions, one exclusively for the Code of Conduct (Resolution No. 25-12) and another for the Rules of Procedure for conducting City Council meetings (Resolution No. 25-13). There were no substantive changes made to the Code of Conduct other than formatting.
In further review of the Rules of Procedure for City Council meetings, it became apparent that other resolutions that had been adopted over the years could be folded into the updated Resolution to consolidate all meeting functions and procedures into one Resolution. The affected resolutions are as follows: Resolution No. 05-45 (order of business on the agenda; adopted July 11, 2005), Resolution No. 11 -75 (action minutes; adopted December 12, 2011), Resolution No. 20 -13 (Virtual Meeting Protocols; adopted April 6, 2020), and Resolution No. 21-55 (Rules for Conducting Council Meetings; adopted September 27, 2021).
New additions to the Rules of Procedures include document preparation, quorum, vote, Temporary Presiding Officer assignment in the absence of the Mayor and Mayor Pro Tem, procedures for addressing the City Council, procedures regarding public hearings, and Council presentations. Resolution No. 25-13 will also memorialize the formal adoption of the three-minute time limit for public comments that was approved by consensus of the City Council in 2020.
ATTACHMENTS
Resolution No. 25-12....................................................................................................... 3 Resolution No. 25-13..................................................................................................... 10 Resolution No. 21-55..................................................................................................... 32 Resolution No. 05-45 (Order of Business on the Agenda) ............................................ 47 Resolution No. 11-75 (Action Minutes) .......................................................................... 50 Resolution No. 20-13 (Virtual Meeting Protocols) ......................................................... 53
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CITY OF BELLFLOWER
RESOLUTION NO. 25-12
A RESOLUTION ESTABLISHING A CODE OF CONDUCT IN
ACCORDANCE WITH GOVERNMENT CODE § 36813, AND
SUPERSEDING RESOLUTION NO. 21-55
THE CITY COUNCIL RESOLVES AS FOLLOWS:
SECTION 1. Code of Conduct; Core Principles. The City Council finds and declares that its members, and all members of appointed boards and commissions (collectively, “Public Officials”), will abide by the following Core Principles:
A. Public Officials should comply with both the letter and spirit of the laws and policies affecting the operations of government;
B. Public Officials are expected by the public to be independent, impartial, and fair in their judgment and actions;
C. Serving in public office is a privilege and should be exercised in trust for the public good, not for personal gain; and
D. Public deliberations and processes should be conducted openly, unless legally confidential, in an atmosphere of respect and civility.
SECTION 2. General Policies. Implementing the Core Principles is one of the guiding objectives in adopting this Resolution. Accordingly, in addition to all requirements of applicable law, the Public Officials must adhere to the following policies:
A. Conduct of Public Officials
The professional and personal conduct of Public Officials must be above reproach and avoid even the appearance of impropriety. Public Officials will refrain from abusive conduct, personal charges, or verbal attacks upon the character or motives of other Public Officials, City employees, or the public.
B. Respect for Process
Public Officials will perform their duties in accordance with the processes and rules of order established by the City Council governing the deliberation of public policy issues, meaningful involvement of the public, and implementation of policy decisions.
C. Conduct of Public Meetings
Public Officials will fully prepare themselves for public issues; listen courteously and attentively to all public discussions before the body; and focus on the business at hand. They will refrain from interrupting other speakers, making personal comments not germane to the business of the body, or otherwise interfering with the orderly conduct of meetings.
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D. Communication
Members will publicly share substantive information that is relevant to a matter under consideration by the City Council or boards, commissions, and committees, which they may have received from sources outside the public decision-making process.
E. Confidential Information
Members must respect the confidentiality of information concerning City property, personnel, or proceedings of the City. They will neither disclose confidential information without proper legal authorization nor use such information to advance their personal interests.
F. Advocacy
When presenting their individual opinions and positions, Public Officials will expressly state they do not represent their body or the City of Bellflower, nor will they allow the inference that they do. All written correspondence expressing an individual opinion and position must be on personal stationery and not on City stationery.
G. Policy Role of Public Officials
Public Officials must respect and adhere to the council-manager structure of Bellflower city government with respect to the City Manager’s relationship with the City Council. In this structure, the City Council determines the policies of the City with the advice, information and analysis provided by the public, boards, commissions, and committees and City staff. The City Manager implements that policy.
SECTION 3. Substance Abuse Policy.
A. While acting in their official capacities, Public Officials will refrain from imbibing alcohol to the point that it impairs their judgment, physical coordination, speech, or mental process.
B. At all times, Public Officials will refrain from the use of a controlled substance, narcotic, amphetamine, barbiturate, prescribed or over-the- counter medication in excess of the prescribed dosage, or other non - prescribed hallucinogenic substance.
C. Public Officials who have substance abuse problems are encouraged to make every effort to overcome such problems and to utilize the services of the Employee Assistance Program (EAP). Using the EAP is confidential.
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Resolution No. 25-12
SECTION 4. Anti-Harassment Policy.
A. Harassment of an applicant or employee by a Public Official on the basis of race, religious creed, color, national origin, ancestry, disability, medical condition, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran or military status, sex, or age will not be tolerated.
B. Harassment on the basis of race, religious creed, color, national origin, ancestry, disability, medical condition, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran or military status, sex, or age includes, but is not limited to, the following examples:
1. Verbal Harassment - Epithets, derogatory comments, or slurs on the basis of race, religious creed, color, national origin, ancestry, disability, medical condition, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran or military status, sex, or age.
2. Physical Harassment - Assault, impeding or blocking movement, or any physical interference with normal work or movement when directed at an individual on the basis of race, religious creed, color, national origin, ancestry, disability, medical condition, m arital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran or military status, sex, or age.
3. Visual Forms of Harassment - Derogatory posters, notices, bulletins, cartoons, or drawings on the basis of race, religious creed, color, national origin, ancestry, disability, medical condition, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran or military status, sex, or age.
4. Sexual Favors - Unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature that is conditioned upon employment benefit, unreasonably interferes with an individual’s work performance or creates an offensive work environment.
SECTION 5. Anti-Nepotism Policy. The City will not hire relatives of Public Officials. If a Public Official’s relative presents a matter to the City, then that Public Official cannot participate in or attempt to influence decision-making regarding that matter. For purposes of this policy a “relative” is defined as a blood, by-adoption, or step parent, spouse or registered domestic partner, sibling, child or in-law, and their children and children-in-law.
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SECTION 6. Expected Conduct.
A. Public Officials will request administrative services only through the City Manager or designee.
1. Public Officials cannot direct, order, or make demands on any City employee, other than inquiries that can be answered routinely and without research.
2. Public Officials cannot attempt to reorganize an employee’s priorities or influence the manner by which City staff performs their assigned functions or duties.
3. Public Officials cannot retaliate or threaten to retaliate against employees as a result of disagreements over policy
recommendations.
4. Public Officials cannot threaten a City employee with disciplinary action.
B. Public Officials must act collectively in a properly noticed and constituted meeting; Public Officials do not have authority to make decisions or take actions on behalf of the body unless expressly authorized to do so.
1. Public Officials cannot make representations or promises to any third party regarding the future actions of the City or of the body of which they are a member, unless such representation or promise has been duly authorized by the appropriate body.
2. When making public utterances, Public Officials must make it clear whether they are authorized to speak on behalf of the body of which they are a member, or whether they are presenting their own views.
3. Public Officials cannot interfere with the manner by which the City Manager performs his or her duties.
C. Public Officials who are members of boards and commissions must limit their activities to matters within their subject matter jurisdiction.
1. Boards and commissions can address only those matters determined by the BMC or by the City Council to be within their subject matter jurisdiction; staff need not place on an agenda, provide resources for or implement requests, directions or actions outside that jurisdiction. Unless directed otherwise by the City Council, Commissions and Boards must refrain from consideration of policy issues that are under active consideration by the City Council.
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2. The City Council as a whole will provide direction and guidance to its subsidiary bodies.
D. City resources must be used solely for proper governmental purposes, and only with proper authorization.
1. City letterhead may only be used by Public Officials for official City business.
2. City employees cannot be asked or directed to spend time on non - City business.
3. Public Officials cannot use or disclose information obtained through City service for improper purposes.
SECTION 7. Enforcement. To enforce the Core Principles, and the polices set forth in this Resolution to implement those Core Principles, the City Council adopts the following requirements for enforcement:
A. A complaint regarding a violation of the Code of Conduct may be filed with the Mayor, the City Manager, or the City Attorney (collectively, the “Investigator”).
B. Upon receiving a complaint, the person receiving the complaint may take one of the following actions depending on the circumstances of the alleged violations of law or policy:
1. Take no action;
2. Conduct a preliminary investigation of the allegations before recommending any action. Following such a preliminary investigation into the complaint, the Investigator may then either take no action or place the matter on a future City Council agenda with a recommendation for consideration; or
3. Place the matter on a future City Council agenda for consideration.
C. If a complaint is placed on the City Council agenda, the City Council ma y take the following action:
1. Take no action;
2. Initiate an investigation of the allegations before considering any discipline identified in this Resolution; or
3. Based upon substantive evidence, take one of the disciplinary actions identified in this Resolution.
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4. Nothing in this policy precludes individual City Council Members from making public statements regarding alleged conduct.
D. In addition to any other remedy provided by applicable law, the City Council may undertake one or more of the following actions after finding a violation of this Resolution occurred:
1. Admonition. This is the least severe form of action. An admonition may typically be directed to all members of the City Council, reminding them that a particular type of behavior is in violation of law or City policy. An admonition may be issued by the City Council before any findings of fact regarding allegations, and because it is a warning or reminder, would not necessarily require an investigation or separate hearings to determine whether the allegation is true.
2. Sanction. This is the next most severe form of action. Sanction may be directed to a particular member of the City Council based on a particular action (or set of actions) that is determined to be in violation of law or City policy. A sanction is distinguished from censure in that it is not a punishment. A sanction may be issued based upon City Council review and consideration of a written allegation of a policy violation. The member accused of a violation will have an opportunity to provide a written response to the allegation. A sanction may be issued by the City Council and because it is not punishment or discipline, would not necessarily require an investigation or separate hearings.
3. Censure. Censure is the most severe form of action. Censure is a formal statement of the City Council officially reprimanding one of its members. It is a punitive action, which serves as a penalty imposed for wrongdoing, but it carries no fine or suspension of the rights of the member as an elected official. Censure should be used for cases in which the City Council determines that the violation of law or policy is a serious offense. To protect the overriding right to freedom of speech, the City Council cannot impose censure on any of its members for the exercise of his or her First Amendment rights, no matter how distasteful the expression was to the City Council and the City. However, nothing can be construed to prohibit the City Council from collectively condemning and expressing their strong disapprobation of such remarks. A decision to censure requires the adoption of a Resolution making findings with regard to the specific charges, based on substantial evidence, and approved by a two - thirds vote of the City Council.
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SECTION 8. Unless specifically referenced, this Resolution supersedes all previous resolutions purporting to establish a Code of Conduct for the City Council including, without limitation, Resolution No. 21-55 (adopted September 27, 2021).
Accordingly, those resolutions are rendered moot upon adoption of this Resolution and are accordingly repealed. Nothing in this Resolution is intended to, nor does it, supersede the City’s most recently adopted Conflict of Interest Code.
SECTION 9. Electronic Signatures. This Resolution may be executed with electronic signatures in accordance with Government Code §16.5. Such electronic signatures will be treated in all respects as having the same effect as an original signature.
SECTION 10. The Mayor, or presiding officer, is hereby authorized to affix his signature to this Resolution signifying its adoption by the City Council of the City of Bellflower, and the City Clerk, or her duly appointed deputy, is directed to attest thereto.
SECTION 11. This Resolution will become effective immediately upon adoption.
PASSED, APPROVED, AND ADOPTED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF BELLFLOWER THIS 10TH DAY OF MARCH 2025.
_________________________
Ray Dunton, Mayor
ATTEST:
_________________________
Mayra Ochiqui, City Clerk
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
__________________________
Karl H. Berger, City Attorney
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CITY OF BELLFLOWER
RESOLUTION NO. 25-13
A RESOLUTION ESTABLISHING RULES OF PROCEDURE FOR
CONDUCTING CITY COUNCIL MEETINGS IN ACCORDANCE WITH
GOVERNEMENT CODE § 36813, AND SUPERSEDING RESOLUTION
NOS. 05-45, 11-75, 20-13, AND 21-55
THE CITY COUNCIL RESOLVES AS FOLLOWS:
SECTION 1. Rules of Procedure for Meetings. The City Council adopts the following procedural rules for conducting City Council Meetings:
“RULES OF PROCEDURE
Rule 1. Authority
The City Council establishes these “Rules of Procedure” (“Rules”) for conducting its meetings pursuant to Government Code § 36813. The following Rules become effective upon the City Council’s adoption and remain effective unless amended or superseded. In the absence of separate procedural rules for individual boards and commissions, the Rules adopted by this Resolution will apply to all City subsidiary boards and commissions. These Rules are intended to comply with the Ralph M.
Brown Act (Government Code §§ 54950-54962). The Brown Act will supersede any conflicting provision of the Rules.
Rule 2. General Rules
Rule 2.1: Public Meetings
All meetings (except closed sessions as provided by California law) of the Council are open to the public.
Rule 2.2: Rules of Order
Pursuant to Bellflower Municipal Code (“BMC”) § 2.040.060, the City Council finds as follows:
A. City Council proceedings should be governed by common sense and good taste. Pursuant to applicable laws, including, without limitation, the BMC, any issue of procedure relating to the conduct of a meeting or hearing not otherwise provided for in these Rules may be determined by the Mayor, subject to a vote of the entire Council. In addition, the City Council may, upon majority vote, alter or modify any provision of this Policy when appropriate or desirable.
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B. City Council proceedings are generally governed by Rosenberg’s Rules of Order on all matters pertaining to parliamentary law (attached as Exhibit “A,” and incorporated by reference). Notwithstanding Rosenberg’s Rules of Order, motions will be voted upon in the order in which they are made.
Moreover, nothing prevents the City Council expressly adopting a rule or procedure that may be inconsistent with Rosenberg’s Rule of Order. No City Council action can be invalidated, or the legality of otherwise affected, by the failure or omission to observe or follow Rosenberg’s Rules of Order or any other City Council approved rule of procedure.
C. These Rules are adopted to expedite the City Council’s business transactions in an orderly fashion and are procedural only. Failure to strictly observe these rules will not affect the City Council’s jurisdiction or invalidate any Council action conforming with applicable law.
D. The Council will abide by Code of Conduct that may be adopted by the City Council for use by its boards, Councils, and committees.
Rule 2.3: Quorum
Three members of the Council constitute a quorum. Should less than a quorum be in attendance, the City Clerk may list the attendees in the minutes, and they will adjourn the meeting to a later set time. In the event no members of the Council are present the City Clerk may adjourn the meeting to a later set time pursuant to Government Code §54955.
Rule 2.4: Vote
A majority of a quorum is required to transact business. If an absence results in a lack of a majority to approve a substantive matter, the matter will be automatically continued to the next regular City Council meeting. If the substantive matter is neither approved nor denied at the next regular meeting, the project is deemed denied unless the applicant requests an additional vote at the next regular meeting.
No appeal fee will be charged for an appeal required as a result of a tie vote or due to the lack of four affirmative votes to approve a matter which is not subsequently denied.
Rule 2.5: Minutes of Proceedings
The City Clerk will record an account of all public proceedings of the City Council into the Council’s official minutes pursuant to Government Code §§ 36814 and 40801. These minutes will be in the form of “Action Minutes” and become public record after Council approval.
A. The following information will be reflected in the minutes:
1. The date, hour, and place of meeting
2. Name of the meeting body
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3. Whether it is a regular, adjourned, or special meeting
4. Names of the members in attendance; if a member arrives late or departs before adjournment, the minutes should reflect the time of arrival and/or departure at that point in the minutes
5. Description of items
6. A listing of speakers, a reference to the subject matter addressed, whether they spoke for or against the matter under discussion, and direction (if any) given
7. A statement of action (motion) and how the members votes
8. Other information expressly requested by the body during the applicable meeting
9. Adjournment time and whether the meeting was adjourned to another time
B. With respect to hearings, the minutes will include:
1. The fact that required notice was given and that the hearing was held at the time and place specified in the notice (if such information is not incorporated in the staff report, ordinance, or resolution)
2. Appropriate reference to any written evidence in the form of statements, affidavits, reports, photographs, maps, correspondence, or other objects filed at the hearing and included as part of the record
3. Names of the people who spoke and whether their testimony was for or against the hearing subject
4. Findings of the body (if the findings are not incorporated in the ordinance, resolution, or staff report adopted/approved as a result of the hearing)
5. A statement of action (motion) and how the members voted
6. Other information expressly requested by the body during the applicable meeting
7. The date, time, and place of the hearing if it is continued
Rule 2.6: Right of Floor
Council Members wishing to speak must first be recognized by the Mayor and, with the exception of Council Reports, limit any remarks to the agenda matter being considered.
Rule 2.7: City Manager
The City Manager will attend all meetings of the City Council unless excused. In his/her absence, the City Manager will designate an Acting City Manager to attend.
The City Manager may make recommendations and has the right to take part in all City Council discussions of the Council, but cannot vote.
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Rule 2.8: City Attorney
The City Attorney or designee will attend all meetings of the City Council unless excused. The City Attorney or designee, upon request, may give opinions, either written or oral, on questions of law and act as the City Council’s parliamentarian.
Rule 2.9: City Clerk
The City Clerk will attend all meetings of the City Council unless excused. In his/her absence, the Deputy City Clerk will attend. The City Clerk will record, prepare, and maintain the City Council’s official record and perform other related duties as prescribed by the City Council and/or City Manager.
Rule 3. Mayor – Duties
Rule 3.1: Presiding Officer
The Mayor, if present, will preside at all meetings. In the Mayor’s absence, the Mayor Pro Tem will preside. In the absence of both, the Council Member with the most years of service will serve as Temporary Presiding Officer.
Rule 3.2: Call to Order
The Mayor or Mayor Pro Tem will bring the meeting to order at the time noticed in accordance with applicable law. In the absence of both, the meeting will be called to order by the City Clerk.
Rule 3.3: Point of Order
The Mayor will determine all points of order, subject to the right of any Council Member to appeal to a vote of a majority of the quorum.
Rule 3.4: Motion to Be Stated
The Mayor will state all motions submitted for a vote and announce the result. A roll call vote must be taken upon the request of any Council Member.
Rule 4. Preparation of Agenda
Rule 4.1: Agenda Preparation
The Agenda will be prepared in accordance with the procedure directed by the City Manager. The Agenda should be delivered to the Mayor and Council Members by the last working day preceding the Council’s regular Monday meeting. In the event of a Special Meeting, Agendas should be delivered as promptly as is practicable.
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Rule 4.2: Order of the Agenda
Notwithstanding circumstances which warrant that the presiding officer use his/her discretion in chairing the meeting, the following order of business for regular meetings is established:
5:30 p.m. Closed Session
Call to Order
Recess to Closed Session
Reconvene for Open Session
7:00 p.m. Open Session
Call to Order
Roll Call
Invocation
Pledge of Allegiance
Announcements/Presentations
Public Comments
Public Hearings
Ordinances and Resolutions for Consideration
Consideration Items
Consent Calendar
Council Reports
Adjournment
Rule 4.3: Minutes
Unless requested by a majority of the quorum, minutes may be approved without reading.
Rule 4.4: Consent Calendar
Items listed under the Consent Calendar are those items the City Manager believes will not require Council discussion and are routine in content. Also listed under the Consent Calendar are resolutions confirming action from a previous meeting which are brought back for approval of form rather than approval of action.
Items may be pulled for separate discussion or clarification at any Council Member’s request, or upon receipt of a request for public comment on the item.
Rule 4.5: Council Reports
Items of interest that are not on the Agenda, such as conference or meeting reports, may be discussed under this item. No action, other than to “receive or refer to staff” may be taken.
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Rule 4.6: Actions Limited to Posted Agenda
The City Council cannot take action on any item not appearing on the posted Agenda except under the conditions permitted b y Government Code § 54954.2.
Rule 4.7: Future Agenda Items
Each Agenda may include an Agenda item entitled “Council Reports.” During this section of the Agenda any Council Member may make a motion only to place an item on a future Agenda. The motion is non-debatable. Placement of an item on a future Agenda requires a majority vote. The City Manager has discretion as to when the item will be placed on the Agenda, unless otherwise directed by the City Council.
Rule 5. Citizens’ Rights
Rule 5.1: Addressing the Council
A. Any person may address the Council under the following portions of the Agenda:
(1) Under the Public Comment portion of the Agenda
(2) Public Hearings
(3) With the consent of a majority of the quorum of the Council
B. Persons seeking to address the City Council must comply with the following:
(1) Members of the public may address the City Council only on items within the subject-matter jurisdiction of the Council. A determination of whether an item is appropriate for discussion will be made by the Mayor with the City Council’s consent.
(2) Persons addressing the City Council may sign in on the sign-in sheet provided.
(3) Each speaker may be limited to a time period determined by the Mayor for Public Comment and on all other items on the Agenda. In the absence of specific time determined by the Mayor, there is a maximum of three minutes for speaking. Exception – See Public Hearing Procedures under Section 7 and following.
(4) All remarks must be directed to the City Council as a body and not to any particular Council Member or City employee.
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(5) No person, other than Council Members and the person having the floor are permitted to participate in the discussion except as otherwise requested by the Mayor.
(6) No question may be asked of Council Members or City employees except through the Mayor.
C. When any identifiable group of persons, as distinguished from the general public, seeks to address the City Council on the same agenda item, the Mayor has the discretion to ask that the group select a spokesperson to address the City Council. If additional issues are to be presented at the hearing by any other member of such group, the Mayor may limit the number of persons to address the City Council to avoid unnecessary repetition of information presented to the City Council.
Rule 5.2: Disrupting legal meetings
Any member of the public making disruptive remarks or who becomes disruptive while addressing the Council or attending the City Council meeting so as to disrupt, disturb or otherwise impede the orderly conduct of the City Council meeting will be removed forthwith by the Presiding Officer and barred from further audience before the City Council at that meeting unless permission to continue is granted by a majority vote of the City Council.
Rule 6. Document Preparation
Unless otherwise directed by the Council or City Manager, all documents must, before being placed on the Agenda, be approved as to form and legality by the City Attorney or designee.
Rule 7. Procedures Regarding Public Hearings
Rule 7.1: Introduction
Conflicts, if any, are declared and ex parte contacts, if any, are disclosed.
Rule 7.2: Staff and Written Material Presentation
A. Staff summary report and other written material included in the Agenda packet is received and filed. Written comments (e.g., protest) are noted for the record.
B. Written material not in the Agenda packet, if any, is received and filed.
C. Oral staff report, if any, is presented by staff member.
D. Staff responds to Council Members’ questions.
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Rule 7.3: Public Testimony
A. Purpose is to provide opportunity to interested persons wishing to support or oppose the matter being considered.
B. Mayor instructs members of the audience:
(1) To fill out a form prepared by the City Clerk;
(2) To speak from the podium;
(3) To give their name and address before speaking;
(4) That the time limit for each speaker is generally five minutes; and
(5) That repetition should be avoided.
C. The applicant/representative will normally speak first.
Applicant/representative presentation is limited to ten minutes, any portion of which can be used for rebuttal.
D. Questions by speakers will be noted and, if possible, answered before Council deliberation.
E. Following public testimony, the applicant/representative will have an opportunity for rebuttal, if time remains.
Rule 7.4: Council Deliberation
A. After the Mayor determines that no other member of the audience wishes to speak the City Council may deliberate.
B. The Council may ask questions of speakers for clarification.
C. Staff and/or Council answers prior speakers’ questions.
D. The Council makes a motion and debates.
Rule 7.5: Council Action
A. The Council may, at this time, continue the open Public Hearing.
(1) This should be done if any additional information is requested (e.g., a staff report).
(2) Continuing a Public Hearing to a specific date does not require additional notice.
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B. Vote on the item.
C. Offer amendments or substitute motions allowing additional public comment.
D. Close the Public Hearing and continue the mater to a later date for a decision (note that no additional reports or testimony may be received if the Public Hearing has been closed).
Rule 8. Miscellaneous Rules
Rule 8.1: Silence
During a collective vote (Ayes and Nays), silence of any Council Member denotes an affirmative vote.
Rule 8.2: Continuance of an Item
A. Continuance by a Council Member.
Upon a Council Member’s request and by majority vote, an item (not subject to a deadline) may be continued to the next agreed upon meeting.
B. Continuances Requested by Someone Not a Council Member.
Anyone may request a continuance of an item and the City Council, by majority vote, may grant a continuance.
Rule 8.3: Failure to Vote
Every Council Member should vote unless disqualified by reason of a Conflict of Interest. If a member abstains because of a legal conflict of interest, he/she is not counted as part of the quorum and is not deemed to be voting.
If a member abstains for reasons other than a legal conflict of interest, he/she will be counted in establishing a quorum. Such an abstention will be counted with the majority vote of the quorum unless there is no majority in which case it will not be counted as a vote.
Rule 8.4: Lost Motions
A lost motion is one that fails to receive the necessary number of votes to carry.
To revive a lost motion at the same meeting, the proper action is a motion to reconsider.
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If a motion is lost on an Ordinance or action for the expenditure of money, or any motion when the legally required number of votes for passage is three ; when two Members of the City Council are absent, the matter will be automatically continued to the next regular meeting. In the case of an Urgency Ordinance, the matter will be automatically continued when one Council Member is absent.
Rule 8.5: Motion to Reconsider
A motion to reconsider any action taken by the City Council may be made in accordance with the following:
A. The motion must be made by a Council Member, the majority vote, or, in the case of a lost motion, by any Council Member and may be seconded by any Council Member.
B. The motion must be made before the adjournment of the meeting at which the original action was taken.
C. The motion is debatable and has precedence over a pending motion.
D. Except as otherwise provided, if the action to be reconsidered is a Public Hearing item, it must be re-noticed in the event the motion to reconsider passes. Where it is clearly established that all interested members of the public are still present, the item may be reconsidered without further notice.
Rule 8.6: Tie Votes
If a tie vote occurs when a Member of the City Council is absent, the item will be automatically continued once to the next regular meeting of the City Council.
Except in the event of an appeal to the City Council, if a tie vote occurs as a result of the abstention of a Council Member, the motion is lost. If a tie vote on an appeal occurs as a result of the abstention of a Council Member, the appeal is deemed denied.
Rule 8.7: Changing the Vote
A Council Member may change his/her vote only if the change is made immediately following the announcement of the vote by the Mayor and before the next agenda item is announced.
Rule 8.8: Abstention
A Council Member who publicly announces that he/she is abstaining from voting on a particular matter will not subsequently be allowed to withdraw the abstention.
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City of Bellflower
Resolution No. 25-13
Rule 8.9: Recusal – Non-Profit Organization Board of Directors Member
City Council Members must recuse themselves from contract and/or funding allocation decisions if they sit on boards of directors of non-profit organizations which are being considered for funding from the City.
Rule 8.10: Presentation of Evidence
A. Oral Evidence
Oral evidence may be taken under oath or affirmation if requested by the Council.
B. Exhibits and Documents
Documentary evidence, exhibits, written communications, and documents used and relied upon by the Council during Council meetings must be made part of the record.
C. Communications and Petitions
A reading in full must be made at the request of a majority of the City Council. All such communications and petitions may be placed i nto evidence at the Council’s discretion.
D. Staff Reports
A written staff report should be prepared and orally reviewed as part of the staff presentation. Such report is evidence and part of the record.
E. Large Maps and Displays
Large size maps and displays presented for use at the hearing should be displayed in full view of the Council. When practicable, such maps or displays, or their authentic reductions, will be placed into the record.
F. Admissible Evidence
A Public Hearing need not be conducted according to legal rules of evidence. Any relevant evidence may be accepted if it is relevant and the type of evidence upon which reasonable persons rely upon in conducting serious affairs. Irrelevant and unduly repetitious evidence will be excluded.
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City of Bellflower
Resolution No. 25-13
Rule 8.11: Personal Privilege
The right of a Council Member to address the Council on a question of personal privilege is limited to cases where the integrity, character, or motives of the Council Member is in question or where the Council’s welfare is concerned. The Council Member may not interrupt the speaker, however, until recognized by the Mayor.
Rule 8.12: Protests
Any Council Member has the right to enter into public record reasons for dissent or protests against any motion carried by the majority.
Rule 9. Rules of Debate
Rule 9.1: Mayor as Presiding Officer
The Mayor may move, second, and debate from the Chair, retains all rights and privileges of a Council Member.
Rule 9.2: Appeals
Any ruling of the Mayor may be appealed at the request of any Council Member.
The Mayor must call for a roll call vote to determine if the ruling is upheld.
Rule 9.3: Motions
A motion may be debated by the City Council after it is made. During debate, any Member of the City Council may “Call for a second.” If a second is not forthcoming, the motion dies for lack of a second. If the motion is seconded, the debate may continue.
Rule 9.4: Precedence of Motions
When a motion is before the City Council, no other motion may be considered except:
A. Motion to Amend - Debatable only as it relates to the amendment.
An amendment which modifies the motion is an order; however, a substitute motion is in order if the intent is changed. Amendments are voted on first, the main motion vote is last. A motion may be amended more than once with each amendment being voted on separately. There may only be one amending motion on the floor at any one time.
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City of Bellflower
Resolution No. 25-13
B. Motion to Postpone - A motion to postpone indefinitely is debatable.
If such a motion is adopted, the principal question is lost. Motion to postpone to a definite time is subject to debate and amendment as it relates to propriety of the postponement and time set.
C. Motion to Table - Undebatable and not subject to amendment.
The purpose of a motion to table is to temporarily bypass the item. If a motion to table is adopted, the item may be taken from the table at any time before the adjournment of the next regular meeting. If the item is not taken from the table in the time specified, the business of the item is lost.
D. Motion for Previous Question
A motion for previous question closes debate on the main motion and is non-debatable. If motion fails, debate is reopened; if motion passes, then vote must be taken on the main motion.
Rule 10. Adjournment
At 10:30 p.m., if business has not concluded, no new business will be considered unless by a majority vote the City Council agrees to begin new business. Items under consideration at 10:30 p.m. may be concluded. Any remaining items will be postponed to the next City Council meeting.
Rule 11. Amendment/Suspension
The City Council may amend or suspend these rules at any time upon majority vote of the City Council.
Rule 12. Certificates and Proclamations
Rule 12.1: Presentation of Certificates and Proclamations
Presentation of Certificates of Achievement, Appreciation, Recognition, and so forth, will be publicly presented at regular meetings under “Announcements/Presentations.” Requests for such presentations must be made at least seven days before the requested date.
Rule 12.2: Presentations Concerning City-Sponsored Events
The Mayor or Presiding Officer will conduct all presentations concerning events, groups, individuals, and organizations that are sponsored all, o r in part, by the City of Bellflower and/or affiliated with the City of Bellflower.
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City of Bellflower
Resolution No. 25-13
Rule 12.3: Specific Events – Requests for Certificates
To ensure timely and appropriate completion of certificates and to avoid duplication of certificate preparation, all requests for certificates should be provided to the City Manager’s Office.”
Rule 13. Administrative Mandamus
Persons who are dissatisfied with a decision of the City Council may have the right to seek review of that decision by a court. In addition, the City has adopted §1094.6 of the Code of Civil Procedure which generally limits to ninety (90) days the time within which the decision of City boards and agencies may be judicially challenged.
SECTION 2. Virtual Meeting Protocols. This Resolution adopts the “Virtual Meeting Protocols” previously adopted via Resolution No. 20-13 on April 6, 2020, which is attached as Exhibit “B,” and incorporated by reference. The Protocols are approved and adopted for purposes of all future virtual City Council meetings.
SECTION 3. Supersession. Unless specifically referenced, this Resolution supersedes all previous resolutions purporting to establish rules and procedures for rules of conduct and procedures for City Council meetings including, without limitation, Resolution No. 05-45 (order of business on the agenda; adopted July 11, 2005), Resolution No. 11-75 (action minutes; adopted December 12, 2011), Resolution No. 20- 13 (Virtual Meeting Protocols; adopted April 6, 2020), and Resolution No. 21-55 (Rules for Conducting Council Meetings; adopted September 27, 2021). Accordingly, those resolutions are rendered moot upon adoption of this Resolution and are accordingly repealed. Nothing in this Resolution is intended to, nor does it, supersede the City’s most recently adopted Conflict of Interest Code.
SECTION 4. Severability. If any part of this Resolution or its application is deemed invalid by a court of competent jurisdiction, the City Council intends that such validity wi ll not affect the effectiveness of the remaining provision or application and, to this end, the provision of this Resolution are severable.
SECTION 5. Electronic Signatures. This Resolution may be executed with electronic signatures in accordance with Government Code §16.5. Such electronic signatures will be treated in all respects as having the same effect as an original signature.
SECTION 6. Recordation. The Mayor, or presiding officer, is hereby authorized to affix his signature to this Resolution signifying its adoption by the City Council of the City of Bellflower, and the City Clerk, or her duly appointed deputy, is directed to attest thereto.
SECTION 7. Effective Date. This Resolution will become effective immediately upon adoption.
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City of Bellflower
Resolution No. 25-13
PASSED, APPROVED, AND ADOPTED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF BELLFLOWER THIS 10TH DAY OF MARCH 2025.
_________________________
Ray Dunton, Mayor
ATTEST:
_________________________
Mayra Ochiqui, City Clerk
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
__________________________
Karl H. Berger, City Attorney
ATTACHMENTS:
Exhibit A – Rosenberg’s Rules of Order
Exhibit B – Virtual Meeting Protocols
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Rosenberg’s Rules of Order:
Simple Parliamentary
Procedures for the 21st Century
by Dave Rosenberg
he rules of procedure at meetings
should be simple enough for most
people to understand. Unfortunately,
that hasn’t always been the case. Virtu-
ally all clubs, associations, boards, coun-
cils and bodies follow a set of rules,
Robert’s Rules of Order, which are em-
bodied in a small but complex book.
Virtually no one I know has actually
read this book cover to cover.
Worse yet, the book was written for
another time and purpose. If you are
running the British Parliament, Robert’s
Rules of Order is a dandy and quite use-
ful handbook. On the other hand, if
you’re running a meeting of a five-
member body with a few members of
the public in attendance, a simplified
version of the rules of parliamentary
procedure is in order. Hence, the birth
of “Rosenberg’s Rules of Order.”
This publication covers the rules of
parliamentary procedure based on my
20 years of experience chairing meetings
in state and local government. These
rules have been simplified and slimmed
down for 21st century meetings, yet
they retain the basic tenets of order to
which we are accustomed.
“Rosenberg’s Rules of Order” are sup-
ported by the following four principles:
1.Rules should establish order. The
first purpose of the rules of parlia-
mentary procedure is to establish a
framework for the orderly conduct
of meetings.
2.Rules should be clear. Simple rules
lead to wider understanding and
participation. Complex rules create
two classes: those who understand
and participate and those who do
not fully understand and do not
fully participate.
3.Rules should be user-friendly. That
is, the rules must be simple enough
that citizens feel they have been able
to participate in the process.
4.Rules should enforce the will of
the majority while protecting the
rights of the minority. The ultimate
purpose of the rules of procedure is
to encourage discussion and to facili-
tate decision-making by the body. In
a democracy, the majority rules. The
rules must enable the majority to
express itself and fashion a result,
while permitting the minority to also
express itself (but not dominate) and
fully participate in the process.
The Chairperson Should Take a
Back Seat During Discussions
While all members of the governing
body should know and understand the
rules of parliamentary procedure, it is
the chairperson (chair) who is charged
with applying the rules of conduct.
The chair should be well versed in those
rules, because the chair, for all intents
and purposes, makes the final ruling on
the rules. In fact, all decisions by the
chair are final unless overruled by the
governing body itself.
Because the chair conducts the meeting,
it is common courtesy for the chair to
take a less active role than other mem-
bers of the body in debates and discus-
sions. This does not mean that the chair
should not participate in the debate or
discussion. On the contrary, as a mem-
ber of the body, the chair has full rights
to participate in debates, discussions
and decision-making. The chair should,
however, strive to be the last to speak at
the discussion and debate stage, and
should not make or second a motion
unless he or she is convinced that no
other member of the body will do so.
The Basic Format for an
Agenda Item Discussion
Formal meetings normally have a written,
published agenda; informal meetings
may have only an oral or understood
agenda. In either case, the meeting is
governed by the agenda and the agenda
constitutes the body’s agreed-upon road
map for the meeting. And each agenda
item can be handled by the chair in the
following basic format.
First, the chair should clearly announce
the agenda item number and should
clearly state what the subject is. The
chair should then announce the format
that will be followed.
There are exceptions to the general rule of free
and open debate on motions. The exceptions all
apply when there is a desire to move on.
Second, following that agenda format,
the chair should invite the appropriate
people to report on the item, including
any recommendation they might have.
The appropriate person may be the
chair, a member of the governing body,
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Rosenberg’s Rules of Order: Simple Parliamentary Procedure for the 21st Century
a staff person, or a committee chair
charged with providing information
about the agenda item.
Third, the chair should ask members
of the body if they have any technical
questions for clarification. At this point,
members of the governing body may ask
clarifying questions to the people who
reported on the item, and they should
be given time to respond.
Fourth, the chair should invite public
comments or, if appropriate at a formal
meeting, open the meeting to public
input. If numerous members of the pub-
lic indicate a desire to speak to the sub-
Eighth, the chair should now invite dis-
cussion of the motion by the members
of the governing body. If there is no
desired discussion or the discussion has
ended, the chair should announce that
the body will vote on the motion. If
there has been no discussion or a very
brief discussion, the vote should proceed
immediately, and there is no need to re-
peat the motion. If there has been sub-
stantial discussion, it is normally best to
make sure everyone understands the
motion by repeating it.
Motions are made in a simple two-step
process. First, the chair recognizes the
member. Second, the member makes a
motion by preceding the member’s
desired approach with the words: “I
move …” A typical motion might be:
“I move that we give 10 days’ notice in
the future for all our meetings.”
The chair usually initiates the motion by:
1.Inviting the members to make a
motion: “A motion at this time
would be in order.”
ject, the chair may limit the time of each
public speaker. At the conclusion of the
public comments, the chair should ann-
ounce that public input has concluded
(or that the public hearing, as the case
may be, is closed).
Debate on policy is healthy; debate on personalities
is not. The chair has the right to cut off discussion
that is too personal, too loud or too crude.
Fifth, the chair should invite a motion
from the governing body members. The
chair should announce the name of the
member who makes the motion.
Sixth, the chair should determine if any
member of the body wishes to second
the motion. The chair should announce
the name of the member who seconds
the motion. It is normally good practice
for a motion to require a second before
proceeding with it, to ensure that it is
not just one member of the body who
is interested in a particular approach.
However, a second is not an absolute
requirement, and the chair can proceed
with consideration and a vote on the
motion even when there is no second.
This is a matter left to the discretion
of the chair.
Seventh, if the motion is made and sec-
onded, the chair should make sure every-
one understands the motion. This is
done in one of three ways:
1.The chair can ask the maker of the
motion to repeat it;
2.The chair can repeat the motion; or
3.The chair can ask the secretary
or the clerk of the body to repeat
the motion.
Ninth, the chair takes a vote. Simply
asking for the “ayes” and then the “nays”
is normally sufficient. If members of the
body do not vote, then they “abstain.”
Unless the rules of the body provide
otherwise or unless a super-majority is
required (as delineated later in these
rules), a simple majority determines
whether the motion passes or is defeated.
Tenth, the chair should announce the
result of the vote and should announce
what action (if any) the body has taken.
In announcing the result, the chair
should indicate the names of the mem-
bers, if any, who voted in the minority
on the motion. This announcement
might take the following form: “The
motion passes by a vote of 3-2, with
Smith and Jones dissenting. We have
passed the motion requiring 10 days’
notice for all future meetings of this
governing body.”
Motions in General
Motions are the vehicles for decision-
making. It is usually best to have a mot-
ion before the governing body prior to
discussing an agenda item, to help every-
one focus on the motion before them.
2.Suggesting a motion to the members:
“A motion would be in order that we
give 10-days’ notice in the future for
all our meetings.”
3.Making the motion.
As noted, the chair has every right as a
member of the body to make a motion,
but normally should do so only if he or
she wishes a motion to be made but no
other member seems willing to do so.
The Three Basic Motions
Three motions are the most common:
1.The basic motion. The basic motion
is the one that puts forward a deci-
sion for consideration. A basic mot-
ion might be: “I move that we create
a five-member committee to plan
and put on our annual fundraiser.”
2.The motion to amend. If a member
wants to change a basic motion that
is under discussion, he or she would
move to amend it. A motion to
amend might be: “I move that we
amend the motion to have a 10-
member committee.” A motion to
amend takes the basic motion that is
before the body and seeks to change
it in some way.
2 League of California Cities -26-
Rosenberg’s Rules of Order: Simple Parliamentary Procedure for the 21st Century
3.The substitute motion. If a member
wants to completely do away with
the basic motion under discussion
and put a new motion before the
governing body, he or she would
“move a substitute motion.” A substi-
tute motion might be: “I move a sub-
stitute motion that we cancel the
annual fundraiser this year.”
Motions to amend and substitute mo-
tions are often confused. But they are
quite different, and so is their effect,
if passed.
A motion to amend seeks to retain the
basic motion on the floor, but to modify
it in some way.
A substitute motion seeks to throw out
the basic motion on the floor and substi-
tute a new and different motion for it.
The decision as to whether a motion is
really a motion to amend or a substitute
motion is left to the chair. So that if a
member makes what that member calls a
motion to amend, but the chair deter-
mines it is really a substitute motion, the
chair’s designation governs.
When Multiple Motions Are Before
The Governing Body
Up to three motions may be on the floor
simultaneously. The chair may reject a
fourth motion until the three that are on
the floor have been resolved.
First, the chair would deal with the
third (the last) motion on the floor, the
substitute motion. After discussion and
debate, a vote would be taken first on
the third motion. If the substitute
motion passes, it would be a substitute
for the basic motion and would elimi-
nate it. The first motion would be moot,
as would the second motion (which
sought to amend the first motion), and
the action on the agenda item would be
complete. No vote would be taken on
the first or second motions. On the
other hand, if the substitute motion (the
third motion) failed, the chair would
proceed to consideration of the second
(now the last) motion on the floor, the
motion to amend.
If the substitute motion failed, the
chair would then deal with the second
(now the last) motion on the floor,
the motion to amend. The discussion
and debate would focus strictly on the
amendment (should the committee be
five or 10 members). If the motion to
amend passed, the chair would now
move to consider the main motion (the
first motion) as amended. If the motion
to amend failed, the chair would now
move to consider the main motion
(the first motion) in its original format,
not amended.
To Debate or Not to Debate
The basic rule of motions is that they
are subject to discussion and debate.
Accordingly, basic motions, motions to
amend, and substitute motions are all
eligible, each in their turn, for full dis-
cussion before and by the body. The
debate can continue as long as members
of the body wish to discuss an item, sub-
ject to the decision of the chair that it is
time to move on and take action.
There are exceptions to the general rule
of free and open debate on motions. The
exceptions all apply when there is a
desire of the body to move on. The fol-
lowing motions are not debatable (that
is, when the following motions are made
and seconded, the chair must immedi-
ately call for a vote of the body without
debate on the motion):
A motion to adjourn. This motion, if
passed, requires the body to immediately
adjourn to its next regularly scheduled
meeting. This motion requires a simple
majority vote.
A motion to recess. This motion, if
passed, requires the body to immediately
take a recess. Normally, the chair deter-
mines the length of the recess, which
may range from a few minutes to an
hour. It requires a simple majority vote.
When two or three motions are on the
floor (after motions and seconds) at
the same time, the first vote should be
on the last motion made. So, for exam-
ple, assume the first motion is a basic
“motion to have a five-member commit-
tee to plan and put on our annual fund-
raiser.” During the discussion of this
The challenge for anyone chairing a public meet-
ing is to accommodate public input in a timely
and time-sensitive way, while maintaining steady
progress through the agenda items.
motion, a member might make a second
motion to “amend the main motion to
have a 10-member committee, not a
five-member committee, to plan and
put on our annual fundraiser.” And per-
haps, during that discussion, a member
makes yet a third motion as a “substitute
motion that we not have an annual
fundraiser this year.” The proper proce-
dure would be as follows.
Third, the chair would now deal with
the first motion that was placed on the
floor. The original motion would either
be in its original format (five-member
committee) or, if amended, would be in
its amended format (10-member com-
mittee). And the question on the floor
for discussion and decision would be
whether a committee should plan and
put on the annual fundraiser.
A motion to fix the time to adjourn.
This motion, if passed, requires the body
to adjourn the meeting at the specific
time set in the motion. For example, the
motion might be: “I move we adjourn
this meeting at midnight.” It requires a
simple majority vote.
A motion to table. This motion, if
passed, requires discussion of the agenda
item to be halted and the agenda item to
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Rosenberg’s Rules of Order: Simple Parliamentary Procedure for the 21st Century
be placed on “hold.” The motion may
contain a specific time in which the
item can come back to the body: “I
move we table this item until our regu-
lar meeting in October.” Or the motion
may contain no specific time for the
return of the item, in which case a
motion to take the item off the table
and bring it back to the body will have
to be taken at a future meeting. A
motion to table an item (or to bring it
back to the body) requires a simple
majority vote.
A motion to limit debate. The most
common form of this motion is to say:
“I move the previous question” or “I
move the question” or “I call for the
question.” When a member of the body
makes such a motion, the member is
really saying: “I’ve had enough debate.
Let’s get on with the vote.” When such
a motion is made, the chair should ask
for a second to the motion, stop debate,
and vote on the motion to limit debate.
The motion to limit debate requires a
two-thirds vote of the body. Note that a
motion to limit debate could include a
time limit. For example: “I move we
limit debate on this agenda item to
15 minutes.” Even in this format, the
the motion fails. If one member is ab-
sent and the vote is 3-3, the motion
still fails.
All motions require a simple majority,
but there are a few exceptions.The
exceptions occur when the body is
taking an action that effectively cuts
off the ability of a minority of the body
to take an action or discuss an item.
These extraordinary motions require a
two-thirds majority (a super-majority)
to pass:
Motion to limit debate. Whether a
member says, “I move the previous
question,” “I move the question,” “I
call for the question” or “I move to limit
debate,” it all amounts to an attempt to
cut off the ability of the minority to dis-
cuss an item, and it requires a two-thirds
vote to pass.
Motion to close nominations. When
choosing officers of the body, such as the
chair, nominations are in order either
from a nominating committee or from
the floor of the body. A motion to close
nominations effectively cuts off the right
of the minority to nominate officers,
and it requires a two-thirds vote
to pass.
pend the rules for a particular purpose.
For example, the body (a private club)
might have a rule prohibiting the atten-
dance at meetings by non-club mem-
bers. A motion to suspend the rules
would be in order to allow a non-club
member to attend a meeting of the club
on a particular date or on a particular
agenda item.
The Motion to Reconsider
There is a special and unique motion
that requires a bit of explanation all by
itself: the motion to reconsider. A tenet
of parliamentary procedure is finality.
After vigorous discussion, debate and
a vote, there must be some closure to
the issue. And so, after a vote is taken,
the matter is deemed closed, subject
only to reopening if a proper motion
to reconsider is made.
A motion to reconsider requires a
majority vote to pass, but there are
two special rules that apply only to
the motion to reconsider.
First is the matter of timing. A motion
to reconsider must be made at the meet-
ing where the item was first voted upon
or at the very next meeting of the body.
A motion to reconsider made at a later
time is untimely. (The body, however,
can always vote to suspend the rules If you are running the British Parliament, Robert’s Rules of Order is a dandy and quite
useful handbook.
and, by a two-thirds majority, allow a
motion to reconsider to be made at
another time.)
Second, a motion to reconsider may be
made only by certain members of the
body. Accordingly, a motion to recon-
motion to limit debate requires a two-
thirds vote of the body. A similar mot-
ion is a motion to object to consideration
of an item. This motion is not debatable,
and if passed, precludes the body from
even considering an item on the agenda.
It also requires a two-thirds vote.
Majority and Super-Majority Votes
In a democracy, decisions are made with
a simple majority vote. A tie vote means
the motion fails. So in a seven-member
body, a vote of 4-3 passes the motion. A
vote of 3-3 with one abstention means
Motion to object to the consideration
of a question. Normally, such a motion
is unnecessary, because the objectionable
item can be tabled or defeated straight
up. However, when members of a body
do not even want an item on the agenda
to be considered, then such a motion
is in order. It is not debatable, and it
requires a two-thirds vote to pass.
Motion to suspend the rules. This
motion is debatable, but requires a two-
thirds vote to pass. If the body has its
own rules of order, conduct or proce-
dure, this motion allows the body to sus-
sider may be made only by a member
who voted in the majority on the origi-
nal motion. If such a member has a
change of heart, he or she may make the
motion to reconsider (any other mem-
ber of the body may second the motion).
If a member who voted in the minority
seeks to make the motion to reconsider,
it must be ruled out of order. The pur-
pose of this rule is finality. If a member
of the minority could make a motion to
reconsider, then the item could be
brought back to the body again and
again, which would defeat the purpose
of finality.
4 League of California Cities -28-
Rosenberg’s Rules of Order: Simple Parliamentary Procedure for the 21st Century If the motion to reconsider passes, then
the original matter is back before the
body, and a new original motion is in
order. The matter may be discussed and
debated as if it were on the floor for the
first time.
It is usually best to have a motion before the gov-
erning body prior to discussing an agenda item,
to help everyone focus.
Courtesy and Decorum
The rules of order are meant to create
an atmospherewhere the members of
the body and the members of the public
can attend to business efficiently, fairly
and with full participation. And at the
same time, it is up to the chair and the
members of the body to maintain com-
mon courtesy and decorum. Unless the
setting is very informal, it is always best
for only one person at a time to have
the floor, and it is always best for every
lege relate to anything that would inter-
fere with the normal comfort of the
meeting. For example, the room may
be too hot or too cold, or a blowing
fan might interfere with a person’s
ability to hear.
Order. The proper interruption would
be: “Point of order.” Again, the chair
would ask the interrupter to “state your
point.” Appropriate points of order
Withdraw a motion. During debate
and discussion of a motion, the maker
of the motion on the floor, at any time,
may interrupt a speaker to withdraw
his or her motion from the floor. The
motion is immediately deemed with-
drawn, although the chair may ask the
person who seconded the motion if
he or she wishes to make the motion,
and any other member may make the
motion if properly recognized.
Motions to amend and substitute motions are
often confused. But they are quite different, and
so is their effect, if passed.
Special Notes About Public Input
The rules outlined here help make meet-
ings very public-friendly. But in addi-
tion, and particularly for the chair, it is
wise to remember three special rules that
apply to each agenda item:
Rule One: Tell the public what the body
speaker to be first recognized by the
chair before proceeding to speak.
The chair should always ensure that
debate and discussion of an agenda item
focus on the item and the policy in ques-
tion, not on the personalities of the
members of the body. Debate on policy
is healthy; debate on personalities is not.
The chair has the right to cut off discus-
sion that is too personal, too loud or
too crude.
Debate and discussion should be fo-
cused, but free and open. In the interest
of time, the chair may, however, limit
the time allotted to speakers, including
members of the body. Can a member of
the body interrupt the speaker? The
general rule is no. There are, however,
exceptions. A speaker may be interrupt-
ed for the following reasons:
Privilege. The proper interruption
would be: “Point of privilege.” The chair
would then ask the interrupter to “state
your point.” Appropriate points of privi-
relate to anything that would not be
considered appropriate conduct of the
meeting; for example, if the chair moved
on to a vote on a motion that permits
debate without allowing that discussion
or debate.
Appeal. If the chair makes a ruling that
a member of the body disagrees with,
that member may appeal the ruling of
the chair. If the motion is seconded and
after debate, if it passes by a simple
majority vote, then the ruling of the
chair is deemed reversed.
Call for orders of the day. This is sim-
ply another way of saying, “Let’s return
to the agenda.” If a member believes that
the body has drifted from the agreed-
upon agenda, such a call may be made.
It does not require a vote, and when the
chair discovers that the agenda has not
been followed, the chair simply reminds
the body to return to the agenda item
properly before them. If the chair fails
to do so, the chair’s determination may
be appealed.
will be doing.
Rule Two: Keep the public informed
while the body is doing it.
Rule Three: When the body has acted,
tell the public what the body did.
Public input is essential to a healthy
democracy, and community participa-
tion in public meetings is an important
element of that input. The challenge for
anyone chairing a public meeting is to
accommodate public input in a timely
and time-sensitive way, while maintain-
ing steady progress through the agenda
items. The rules presented here for con-
ducting a meeting are offered as tools for
effective leadership and as a means of
developing sound public policy.
www.cacities.org 5 -29-
EXHIBIT B
VIRTUAL MEETING PROTOCOLS
CITY OF BELLFLOWER
These protocols are utilized in accordance with Government Code § 36813 and Executive Order No. N-29-20 in order to facilitate the City Council’s virtual meetings.
➢ General Notice Regarding Virtual Meetings:
• All meetings of the City Council will be recorded including, without limitation, public comment.
• Such recordings will include the screen name or displayed telephone number of individuals who are part of the audience even if they choose not to provide public comment.
• Unless an individual is providing public comment, his/her audio will be muted and video will be disabled.
• If an individual chooses to provide public comment, the City Clerk will identify the participant and unmute his/her audio.
• Closed Sessions of the City Council – if any – will not be recorded.
➢ Public Communications:
The following applies to persons wishing to provide public communications regarding agenda items for either a regular meeting or a special meeting:
• At least 24 hours before a meeting, send an email to [email protected] to provide the City Clerk’s Office with an email not longer than 50 words to be read into the record; OR
• At least 24 hours before a meeting, provide the City Clerk’s Office with written correspondence longer than 50 words – whether email or otherwise – that will be distributed to the City Council without being read into the record; OR
• At least 24 hours before a meeting, contact the City Clerk’s Office via email at [email protected] or by phone (562) 804-1424, ext. 2222 to request to address the City Council electronically via audio/video during the meeting; OR
• During the meeting, send an email to [email protected] before the close of public comment. To the extent feasible, the communication will be read into the record; OR
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City of Bellflower
Virtual Meeting Protocols
• During the meeting, individuals may utilize the “raise hand” option to be recognized by the City Council at the public comment sections identified on the City Council agenda. Individuals wishing to provide public comment will be recognized in the order that the “raise hand” notification was received; OR
• Public comment may be submitted via telephone during the meeting using the method described on the corresponding agenda.
For Regular Meetings: Public Comment regarding any item of public interest within the City Council’s subject-matter jurisdiction will be accepted in the “Public Comment” section of the City Council Agenda.
For Special Meetings: Government Code § 54954.3(a) allows the City to limit public comment to only matters listed on the agenda. No other public comment will be accepted.
➢ Meeting Decorum:
• Persons wishing to be audience members to the meeting may do so anonymously.
Anonymous participants, however, will not be recognized for public comment.
• Persons with names that violate community standards, e.g., fighting words, will not be admitted into the meeting. The City’s host will notify those persons in the waiting room that they must either change their participation meeting name or will not be allowed into the meeting.
• Persons will not be allowed rename themselves upon being admitted to the meeting from the “waiting room.”
• Persons who seek to by-pass the City’s host controls will be dropped, and blocked, from the meeting.
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CITY OF BELLFLOWER
RESOLUTION NO. 21-55
A RESOLUTION ESTABLISHING A CODE OF CONDUCT AND RULES
FOR CONDUCTING CITY COUNCIL MEETINGS IN ACCORDANCE
WITH GOVERNMENT CODE § 36813, AND SUPERSEDING
RESOLUTION NO. 16-87.
THE CITY COUNCIL RESOLVES AS FOLLOWS:
SECTION 1. Code of Conduct; Core Principles. The City Council finds and declares that its members, and all members of appointed boards and commissions collectively, "Public Officials"), will abide by the following Core Principles:
A. Public Officials should comply with both the letter and spirit of the laws and policies affecting the operations of government;
B. Public Officials are expected by the public to be independent, impartial, and fair in theirjudgment and actions;
C. Serving in public office is a privilege and should be exercised in trust for the public good, not for personal gain; and
D. Public deliberations and processes should be conducted openly, unless legally confidential, in an atmosphere of respect and civility.
SECTION 2. General Policies. Implementing the Core Principles is one of the guiding objectives in adopting this Resolution. Accordingly, in addition to all requirements of applicable law, the Public Officials must adhere to the following policies:
A. Conduct of Public Officials
The professional and personal conduct of Public Officials must be above reproach and avoid even the appearance of impropriety. Public Officials will refrain from abusive conduct, personal charges, or verbal attacks upon the character or motives of other Public Officials, City employees, or the public.
B. Respect for Process
Public Officials will perform their duties in accordance with the processes and rules of order established by the City Council governing the deliberation of public policy issues, meaningful involvement of the public, and implementation of policy decisions.
C. Conduct of Public Meetings
Public Officials will fully prepare themselves for public issues; listen courteously and attentively to all public discussions before the body; and focus on the business at hand. They will refrain from interrupting other speakers, making personal comments not germane to the business of the body, or otherwise intertering with the orderly conduct of ineetings.
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CITY OF BELLFLOWER
RESOLUTION NO. 21-55
A RESOLUTION ESTABLISHING A CODE OF CONDUCT AND RULES
FOR CONDUCTING CITY COUNCIL MEETINGS IN ACCORDANCE
WITH GOVERNMENT CODE § 36813, AND SUPERSEDING
RESOLUTION NO. 16-87.
THE CITY COUNCIL RESOLVES AS FOLLOWS:
SECTION 1. Code of Conduct; Core Principles. The City Council finds and declares that its members, and all members of appointed boards and commissions (collectively, “Public Officials”), will abide by the following Core Principles:
A. Public Officials should comply with both the letter and spirit of the laws and policies affecting the operations of government;
Public Officials are expected by the public to be independent. impartial. and fair in their judgment and actions;
Serving in public office is a privilege and should be exercised in trust for the public good, not for personal gain; and
Public deliberations and processes should be conducted openly, unless legally confidential, in an atmosphere of respect and civility.
SECTION 2. General Policies. Implementing the Core Principles is one of the guiding objectives in adopting this Resolution. Accordingly, in addition to all requirements of applicable law, the Public Officials must adhere to the following policies:
A. Conduct of Public Officials
The professional and personal conduct of Public Officials must be above reproach and avoid even the appearance of impropriety. Public Officials will refrain from abusive conduct, personal charges, or verbal attacks upon the character or motives of other Public Officials, City employees, or the public.
Respect for Process
Public Officials will perform their duties in accordance with the processes and rules of order established by the City Council governing the deliberation of public policy issues, meaningful involvement of the public, and implementation of policy decisions.
Conduct of Public Meetings
Public Officials will fully prepare themselves for public issues; listen courteously and attentively to all public discussions before the body; and focus on the business at hand. They will refrain from interrupting other speakers, making personal comments not germane to the business of the body, or otherwise interfering with the orderly conduct of meetings.
City of Bellflower
Resolution No. 21-55
D. Communication
Members will publicly share substantive information that is relevant to a matter under consideration by the City Council or boards, commissions, and committees, which they may have received from sources outside the public decision-making process.
E. Confidentiallnformation
Members must respect the confidentiality of information concerning City property, personnel, or proceedings of the City. They will neither disclose confidential information without proper legal authorization nor use such information to advance their personal interests.
F. Advocacy
When presenting their individual opinions and positions, Public Officials will expressly state they do not represent their body or the City of Bellflower, nor will they allow the inference that they do. All written correspondence expressing an individual opinion and position must be
o
n
personal
stationery and not on City stationery.
G. Policy Role of Public Officials
Public Officials must respect and adhere to the council-manager structure of Bellflower city government with respect to the City Manager's relationship with the City Council. In this structure, the City Council determines the policies of the City with the advice, information and analysis provided by the public, boards, commissions, and committees and City staff. The City Manager implements that policy.
SECTION 3. Substance Abuse Policy.
A. While acting in their official capacities, Public Officials will refrain from imbibing alcohol to the point that it impairs their judgment, physical coordination, speech, or mental process.
B. At all times, Public Officials will refrain from the use of a controlled substance, narcotic, amphetamine, barbiturate, prescribed or over-the- counter medication in excess of the prescribed dosage, or other non- prescribed hallucinogenic substance.
C. Public Officials who have substance abuse problems are encouraged to make every effort to overcome such problems and
t
o
utilize the services of
the Employee Assistance Program (EAP). Using the EAP is confidential. -33-
City of Bellflower
Resolution No. 21-55
Communication
Members will publicly share substantive information that is relevant to a matter under consideration by the City Council or boards, commissions, and committees, which they may have received from sources outside the public decision-making process.
Confidential Information
Members must respect the confidentiality of information concerning City property, personnel, or proceedings of the City. They will neither disclose confidential information without proper legal authorization nor use such information to advance their personal interests.
Advocacy
When presenting their individual opinions and positions, Public Officials will expressly state they do not represent their body or the City of Bellflower, nor will they allow the inference that they do. All written correspondence expressing an individual opinion and position must be on personal stationery and not on City stationery.
Policy Role of Public Officials
Public Officials must respect and adhere to the council-manager structure of Bellflower city government with respect to the City Manager’s relationship with the City Council. In this structure, the City Council determines the policies of the City with the advice, information and analysis provided by the public, boards, commissions, and committees and City staff. The City Manager implements that policy.
SECTI
A.
ON 3. Substance Abuse Policy.
While acting in their official capacities, Public Officials will refrain from imbibing alcohol to the point that it impairs their judgment, physical coordination, speech, or mental process.
At all times, Public Officials will refrain from the use of a controlled substance, narcotic, amphetamine, barbiturate, prescribed or over-the- counter medication in excess of the prescribed dosage, or other non- prescribed hallucinogenic substance.
Public Officials who have substance abuse problems are encouraged to make every effort to overcome such problems and to utilize the services of the Employee Assistance Program (EAP). Using the EAP is confidential.
City of Bellflower
Resolution No. 21-55
SECTION 4. Anti-Harassment Policy.
A. Harassment of an applicant or employee by a Public Official on the basis of race, religious creed, color, national origin, ancestry, disability, medical condition, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran or military status, sex, or age will not be tolerated.
B. Harassment on the basis of race, religious creed, color, national origin, ancestry, disability, medical condition, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran or military status, sex, or age includes, but is not limited to, the following examples:
1. Verbal Harassment - Epithets, derogatory comments, or slurs on the basis of race, religious creed, color, national origin, ancestry, disability, medical condition, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran or military status, sex, or age.
2.Physical Harassment - Assault, impeding or blocking movement, or any physical interterence with normal work or movement when directed at an individual on the basis of race, religious creed, color, national origin, ancestry, disability, medical condition, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran or military status, sex, or age.
3. Visual Forms of Harassment - Derogatory posters, notices, bulletins, cartoons, or drawings on the basis of race, religious creed, color, national origin, ancestry, disability, medical condition, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran or military status, sex, or age.
4. Sexual Favors - Unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature that is conditioned upon employment benefit, unreasonably interferes with an individual's work performance or creates an offensive work environment.
SECTION 5. Anti-Nepotism Policy. The City will not hire relatives of Public Officials. If a Public Official's relative presents a matter to the City, then that Public Official cannot participate in or attempt to influence decision-making regarding that matter. For purposes of this policy a "relative" is defined as a blood, by-adoption, or step parent, spouse or registered domestic partner, sibling, child or in-law, and their children and children-in-law.
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City of Bellflower
Resolution No. 21-55
SECTION 4. Anti-Harassment Policy.
A. Harassment of an applicant or employee by a Public Official on the basis of race, religious creed, color, national origin, ancestry, disability, medical condition, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran or military status, sex, or age will not be tolerated.
B. Harassment on the basis of race, religious creed, color, national origin, ancestry, disability, medical condition, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran or military status, sex, or age includes, but is not limited to, the following examples:
1. Verbal Harassment - Epithets, derogatory comments, or slurs on the basis of race, religious creed, color, national origin, ancestry, disability, medical condition, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran or military status, sex, or age.
2. Physical Harassment - Assault, impeding or blocking movement, or any physical interference with normal work or movement when directed at an individual on the basis of race, religious creed, color, national origin, ancestry, disability, medical condition, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran or military status, sex, or age.
3. Visual Forms of Harassment - Derogatory posters, notices, bulletins, cartoons, or drawings on the basis of race, religious creed, color, national origin, ancestry, disability, medical condition, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran or military status, sex, or age.
4. Sexual Favors - Unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature that is conditioned upon employment benefit, unreasonably interferes with an individual's work performance or creates an offensive work environment.
SECTION 5. Anti-Nepotism Policy. The City will not hire relatives of Public Officials. If a Public Official’s relative presents a matter to the City, then that Public Official cannot participate in or attempt to influence decision-making regarding that matter. For purposes of this policy a “relative” is defined as a blood, by-adoption, or step parent, spouse or registered domestic partner, sibling, child or in-law, and their children and children-in-Iaw.
i
City of Bellflower
Resolution No. 21-55
Page4of14
SECTION 6. Expected Conduct.
A. Public Officials will request administrative services only through the City Manager or designee.
1 .Public Officials cannot direct, order, or make demands on any City employee, other than inquiries that can be answered routinely and without research.
2.Public Officials cannot attempt to reorganize an employee's priorities or influence the manner by which City staff performs their assigned functions or duties.
3.Public Officials cannot retaliate or threaten to retaliate against employees as a result of disagreements over policy
recommendations.
4.Public Officials cannot threaten a City employee with disciplinary action.
B. Public Officials must act collectively in a properly noticed and constituted meeting; Public Officials do not have authority to make decisions or take actions on behalf of the body unless expressly authorized to do so. 1 .Public Officials cannot make representations or promises to any third party regarding the future actions of the City or of the body of which they are a member, unless such representation or promise has been duly authorized by the appropriate body.
2. When making public utterances, Public Officials must make it clear whether they are authorized to speak on behalf of the body of which they are a member, or whether they are presenting their own views.
3.Public Officials cannot interfere with the manner by which the City Manager performs his or her duties.
C. Public Officials who are members of boards and commissions must limit their activities to matters within their subject matter jurisdiction.
1.Boards and commissions can address only those matters determined by the BMC or by the City Council to be within their subject matter jurisdiction; staff need not place on an agenda, provide resources for or implement requests, directions or actions outside that jurisdiction. Unless directed otherwise by the City Council, Commissions and Boards must refrain from consideration of policy issues that are under active consideration by the City Council.
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City of Bellflower
Resolution No. 21-55
SECTION 6.
A.
Expected Conduct.
Public Officials will request administrative services only through the City Manager or designee.
1. Public Officials cannot direct, order, or make demands on any City employee, other than inquiries that can be answered routinely and without research.
Public Officials cannot attempt to reorganize an employee’s priorities or influence the manner by which City staff performs their assigned functions or duties.
Public Officials cannot retaliate or threaten to retaliate against employees as a result of disagreements over policy
recommendations.
Public Officials cannot threaten a City employee with disciplinary action.
Public Officials must act collectively in a properly noticed and constituted meeting; Public Officials do not have authority to make decisions or take actions on behalf of the body unless expressly authorized to do so.
1. Public Officials cannot make representations or promises to any third party regarding the future actions of the City or of the body of which they are a member, unless such representation or promise has been duly authorized by the appropriate body.
When making public utterances, Public Officials must make it clear whether they are authorized to speak on behalf of the body of which they are a member, or whether they are presenting their own views.
Public Officials cannot interfere with the manner by which the City Manager performs his or her duties.
Public Officials who are members of boards and commissions must limit their activities to matters within their subject matter jurisdiction.
1. Boards and commissions can address only those matters determined by the BMC or by the City Council to be within their subject matter jurisdiction; staff need not place on an agenda, provide resources for or implement requests, directions or actions outside that jurisdiction. Unless directed otherwise by the City Council, Commissions and Boards must refrain from consideration of policy issues that are under active consideration by the City Council.
City of Bellflower
Resolution No. 21-55
2. The City Council as a whole will provide direction and guidance to its subsidiary bodies.
D. City resources must be used solely for proper governmental purposes, and only with proper authorization.
1.City letterhead may only be used by Public Officials for official City business.
2. City employees cannot be asked or directed to spend time on non- City business.
3.Public Officials cannot use or disclose information obtained through City service for improper purposes.
SECTION 7. Enforcement. To enforce the Core Principles, and the polices set forth in this Resolution to implement those Core Principles, the City Council adopts the following requirements for enforcement:
A. A complaint regarding a violation of the Code of Conduct may be filed with the Mayor, the City Manager, or the City Attorney (collectively, the Investigator").
B. Upon receiving a complaint, the person receiving the complaint may take one of the following actions depending on the circumstances of the alleged violations of law or policy:
1. Take no action;
2.Conduct a preliminary investigation of the allegations before recommending any action. Following such a preliminary investigation into the complaint, the Investigator may then either take no action or place the matter on a future City Council agenda with a recommendation for consideration; or
3.Place the matter on a future City Council agenda for consideration.
C. If a complaint is placed on the City Council agenda, the City Council may take the following action:
1 . Take no action;
2.Initiate an investigation of the allegations before considering any discipline identified in this Resolution; or
3.Based upon substantive evidence, take one of the disciplinary actions identified in this Resolution.
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City of Bellflower
Resolution No. 21-55
2. The City Council as a whole will provide direction and guidance to its subsidiary bodies.
D. City resources must be used solely for proper governmental purposes, and only with proper authorization.
1. City letterhead may only be used by Public Officials for official City business.
2. City employees cannot be asked or directed to spend time on non- City business.
3. Public Officials cannot use or disclose information obtained through City service for improper purposes.
SECTION 7. Enforcement. To enforce the Core Principles, and the polices set forth in this Resolution to implement those Core Principles. the City Council adopts the following requirements for enforcement:
A. A complaint regarding a violation of the Code of Conduct may be filed with the Mayor, the City Manager, or the City Attorney (collectively, the “lnvestigator”).
B. Upon receiving a complaint, the person receiving the complaint may take one of the following actions depending on the circumstances of the alleged violations of law or policy:
1. Take no action;
2. Conduct a preliminary investigation of the allegations before recommending any action. Following such a preliminary investigation into the complaint, the Investigator may then either take no action or place the matter on a future City Council agenda with a recommendation for consideration; or
3. Place the matter on a future City Council agenda for consideration.
C. If a complaint is placed on the City Council agenda. the City Council may take the following action:
1. Take no action;
2. Initiate an investigation of the allegations before considering any discipline identified in this Resolution; or
3. Based upon substantive evidence, take one of the disciplinary actions identified in this Resolution.
City of Bellflower
Resolution No. 21-55
4.Nothing in this policy precludes individual City Council Members from making public statements regarding alleged conduct.
D. In addition to any other remedy provided by applicable law, the City Council may undertake one or more of the following actions after finding a violation of this Resolution occurred:
1 . Admonition. This is the least severe form of action. An admonition may typically be directed to all members of the City Council, reminding them that a particular type of behavior is in violation of law or City policy. An admonition may be issued by the City Council before any findings of fact regarding allegations, and because it is a warning or reminder, would not necessarily require an investigation or separate hearings to determine whether the allegation is true.
2. Sanction. This is the next most severe form of action. Sanction may be directed to a particular member of the City Council based on a particular action (or set of actions) that is determined to be in violation of law or City policy. A sanction is distinguished from censure in that it is not a punishment. A sanction may be issued based upon City Council review and consideration of a written allegation of a policy violation. The member accused of a violation will have an opportunity to provide a written response to the allegation. A sanction may be issued by the City Council and because it is not punishment or discipline, would not necessarily require an investigation or separate hearings.
3. Censure. Censure is the most severe form of action. Censure is a formal statement of the City Council officially reprimanding one of its members. It is a punitive action, which serves as a penalty imposed for wrongdoing, but it carries no fine or suspension of the rights of the member as an elected official. Censure should be used for cases in which the City Council determines that the violation of law or policy is a serious offense. To protect the overriding right to freedom of speech, the City Council cannot impose censure on any of its members for the exercise of his or her First Amendment rights, no matter how distasteful the expression was to the City Council and the City. However, nothing can be construed to prohibit the City Council from collectively condemning and expressing their strong disapprobation of such remarks. A decision to censure requires the adoption of a Resolution making findings with regard to the specific charges, based on substantial evidence, and approved by a two- thirds vote of the City Council.
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City of Bellflower
Resolution No. 21-55
4. Nothing in this policy precludes individual City Council Members from making public statements regarding alleged conduct.
In addition to any other remedy provided by applicable law, the City Council may undertake one or more of the following actions after finding a violation of this Resolution occurred:
1. Admonition. This is the least severe form of action. An admonition may typically be directed to all members of the City Council, reminding them that a particular type of behavior is in violation of law or City policy. An admonition may be issued by the City Council before any findings of fact regarding allegations. and because it is a warning or reminder, would not necessarily require an investigation or separate hearings to determine whether the allegation is true.
Sanction. This is the next most severe form of action. Sanction may be directed to a particular member of the City Council based on a particular action (or set of actions) that is determined to be in violation of law or City policy. A sanction is distinguished from censure in that it is not a punishment. A sanction may be issued based upon City Council review and consideration of a written allegation of a policy violation. The member accused of a violation will have an opportunity to provide a written response to the allegation. A sanction may be issued by the City Council and because it is not punishment or discipline, would not necessarily require an investigation or separate hearings.
Censure. Censure is the most severe form of action. Censure is a formal statement of the City Council officially reprimanding one of its members. It is a punitive action, which serves as a penalty imposed for wrongdoing, but it carries no fine or suspension of the rights of the member as an elected official. Censure should be used for cases in which the City Council determines that the violation of law or policy is a serious offense. To protect the overriding right to freedom of speech, the City Council cannot impose censure on any of its members for the exercise of his or her First Amendment rights, no matter how distasteful the expression was to the City Council and the City. However, nothing can be construed to prohibit the City Council from collectively condemning and expressing their strong disapprobation of such remarks. A decision to censure requires the adoption of a Resolution making findings with regard to the specific charges, based on substantial evidence, and approved by a two- thirds vote of the City Council.
City of Bellflower
Resolution No. 21-55
SECTION 8. Rules of Procedure for Meetings; Authority. Rules of Procedure for City Council meetings are adopted pursuant to Government Code § 36813. In the absence of separate procedural rules for individual boards and commissions, the Rules of Procedure adopted by this Resolution will apply to all City subsidiary boards and commissions. These Rules are intended to comply with, the Ralph M. Brown Act Government Code §§ 54950-54962). The Brown Act will supersede any conflicting provision of the Rules.
SECTION 9. General Rules.
A. Rules of Order. Pursuant to Bellflower Municipal Code ("BMC")
2.040.
0 6
0 ,
the City Council finds as follows:
1 .City Council proceedings should be governed by common sense and good taste. Pursuant to applicable laws, including, without limitation, the BMC, any issue of procedure relating to the conduct of a meeting or hearing not otherwise provided for in these Rules may be determined by the Mayor, subject to a vote of the entire Council. In addition, the City Council may, upon majority vote, alter or modify any provision of this Policy when appropriate or desirable.
2. These Rules are adopted to expedite the City Council's business transactions in an orderly fashion and are procedural only. Failure to strictly observe these rules will not affect the City Council's jurisdiction or invalidate any Council action conforming with applicable law.
B. Right of Floor.
Council Members wishing to speak must first be recognized by the Mayor and, with the exception of Council Reports, limit any remarks to the agenda matter being considered.
C. City Manager.
The City Manager will attend all meetings of the City Council unless excused. In his/her absence, the City Manager will designate an Acting City Manager to attend. The City Manager may make recommendations and has the right to take part in all City Council discussions of the Council, but cannot vote.
D. City Attorney.
The City Attorney will attend all meetings of the Council unless excused, and in his/her absence, the Assistant City Attorney will attend. The City Attorney, upon request, may give opinions, either written or oral, on questions of law and act as the City Council's parliamentarian. -38-
City of Bellflower
Resolution No. 21-55
SECTION 8. Rules of Procedure for Meetings; Authority. Rules of Procedure for City Council meetings are adopted pursuant to Government Code § 36813. In the absence of separate procedural rules for individual boards and commissions, the Rules of Procedure adopted by this Resolution will apply to all City subsidiary boards and commissions. These Rules are intended to comply with, the Ralph M. Brown Act (Government Code §§ 54950-54962). The Brown Act will supersede any conflicting provision of the Rules.
SECTION 9. General Rules.
A. Rules of Order. Pursuant to Bellflower Municipal Code (“BMC”) § 2.040.060, the City Council finds as follows:
1. City Council proceedings should be governed by common sense and good taste. Pursuant to applicable laws, including, without limitation, the BMC, any issue of procedure relating to the conduct of a meeting or hearing not otherwise provided for in these Rules may be determined by the Mayor, subject to a vote of the entire Council. In addition, the City Council may, upon majority vote, alter or modify any provision of this Policy when appropriate or desirable.
2. These Rules are adopted to expedite the City Council’s business transactions in an orderly fashion and are procedural only. Failure to strictly observe these rules will not affect the City Council's jurisdiction or invalidate any Council action conforming with applicable law.
Right of Floor.
Council Members wishing to speak must first be recognized by the Mayor and, with the exception of Council Reports, limit any remarks to the agenda matter being considered.
City Manager.
The City Manager will attend all meetings of the City Council unless excused. In his/her absence, the City Manager will designate an Acting City Managerto attend. The City Manager may make recommendations and has the right to take part in all City Council discussions of the Council, but cannot vote.
City Attorney.
The City Attorney will attend all meetings of the Council unless excused, and in his/her absence, the Assistant City Attorney will attend. The City Attorney, upon request, may give opinions, either written or oral, on questions of law and act as the City Council's parliamentarian.
City of Bellflower
Resolution No. 21-55
E. City Clerk.
The City Clerk will attend all meetings of the Council unless excused. In his/her absence, the Deputy City Clerk will attend. The City Clerk will record, prepare, and maintain the City Council's official record and perform other related duties as prescribed by the City Council and/or City Manager.
SECTION 10. Mayor— Duties.
A. Presiding Officer
The Mayor, if present, will preside at all meetings. In the Mayor's absence, the Mayor Pro Tem will preside. In the absence of both, the Council Members present will select a Temporary Presiding Officer by majority vote.
B. Call to Order
The Mayor or Mayor Pro Tem will bring the meeting to order at the time noticed in accordance with applicable law. In the absence of both, the meeting will be called to order by the City Clerk.
C. Point of Order
The Mayor will determine all points of order, subject to the right of any Council Member to appeal to a vote of a majority of the quorum.
D. Motion to Be Stated
The Mayor will state all motions submitted for a vote and announce the result. A roll call vote must be taken upon the request of any Council Member.
SECTION 11. Preparation ofAgenda.
A. Order of the Agenda
The Agenda will be organized in accordance with Resolution No. 05-45.
B. Minutes
Unless requested by a majority of the quorum, minutes may be approved without reading.
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City of Bellflower
Resolution No. 21-55
City Clerk.
The City Clerk will attend all meetings of the Council unless excused. In his/her absence, the Deputy City Clerk will attend. The City Clerk will record, prepare, and maintain the City Council's official record and perform other related duties as prescribed by the City Council and/or City Manager.
SECTION 10. Mayor- Duties.
A. Presiding Officer
The Mayor, if present, will preside at all meetings. In the Mayor’s absence, the Mayor Pro Tem will preside. In the absence of both, the Council Members present will select a Temporary Presiding Officer by majority vote.
Call to Order
The Mayor or Mayor Pro Tem will bring the meeting to order at the time noticed in accordance with applicable law. In the absence of both, the meeting will be called to order by the City Clerk.
Point of Order
The Mayor will determine all points of order, subject to the right of any Council Member to appeal to a vote of a majority of the quorum.
Motion to Be Stated
The Mayor will state all motions submitted for a vote and announce the result. A roll call vote must be taken upon the request of any Council Member.
SECTION 11. Preparation of Agenda.
A. Order of the Agenda
The Agenda will be organized in accordance with Resolution No. 05-45.
Minutes
Unless requested by a majority of the quorum, minutes may be approved without reading.
City of Bellflower
Resolution No. 21-55
C. Future Agenda Items
I
Each Agenda may include an Agenda item entitled "Council Reports." During this section of the Agenda any Council Member may make a motion only to place an item on a future Agenda. The motion is non-debatable.
Placement of an item on a future Agenda requires a majority vote. The City Manager has discretion as to when the item will be placed on the Agenda, unless otherwise directed by the City Council.
SECTION 12. Citizens' Rights.
A. Persons seeking to address the City Council must comply with the following:
1.Members of the public may address the City Council only on items within the subject-matter jurisdiction of the City Council. A determination of whether an item is appropriate for discussion will be made by the Mayor with the City Council's consent.
2.Persons addressing the City Council may sign in on the sign-in sheet provided.
3.Each speaker may be limited to a time period determined by the Mayor for Public Comment and on all other items on the Agenda.
4. All remarks must be directed to the City Council as a body and not to any particular Council Member or City employee.
5.No person, other than Council Members and the person having the floor are permitted to participate in the discussion except as otherwise requested by the Mayor.
6.No question may be asked of Council Members or City employees except through the Mayor.
7. When any identifiable group of persons, as distinguished from the general public, seeks to address the City Council on the same agenda item, the Mayor has the discretion to ask that the group select a spokesperson to address the City Council. If additional issues are to be presented at the hearing by any other member of such group, the Mayor may limit the number of persons to address the City Council to avoid unnecessary repetition of information presented to the City Council.
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City of Bellflower
Resolution No. 21-55
C. Future Agenda Items
Each Agenda may include an Agenda item entitled “Council Reports." During this section of the Agenda any Council Member may make a motion only to place an item on a future Agenda. The motion is non-debatable.
Placement of an item on a future Agenda requires a majority vote. The City Manager has discretion as to when the item will be placed on the Agenda, unless otherwise directed by the City Council.
SECTION 12. Citizens' Rights.
A. Persons seeking to address the City Council must comply with the following:
1. Members of the public may address the City Council only on items within the subject-matter jurisdiction of the City Council. A determination of whether an item is appropriate for discussion will be made by the Mayor with the City Council’s consent.
Persons addressing the City Council may sign in on the sign-in sheet provided.
Each speaker may be limited to a time period determined by the Mayor for Public Comment and on all other items on the Agenda.
All remarks must be directed to the City Council as a body and not to any particular Council Member or City employee.
No person. other than Council Members and the person having the floor are permitted to participate in the discussion except as otherwise requested by the Mayor.
No question may be asked of Council Members or City employees except through the Mayor.
When any identifiable group of persons, as distinguished from the general public, seeks to address the City Council on the same agenda item, the Mayor has the discretion to ask that the group select a spokesperson to address the City Council. If additional issues are to be presented at the hearing by any other member of such group, the Mayor may limit the number of persons to address the City Council to avoid unnecessary repetition of information presented to the City Council.
City of Bellflower
Resolution No. 21-55
B. Written Materials
Any person may submit written materials to the City Council for consideration. Should a person wish to have written materials considered by the City Council as part of an agenda item other than a public hearing, they must be submitted during working hours not later than twenty-four (24) hours before the scheduled meeting.
C. Disrupting legal meetings
Any member of the public making disruptive remarks or who becomes disruptive while addressing the Council or attending the City Council meeting so as to disrupt, disturb or otherwise impede the orderly conduct of the City Council meeting will be removed forthwith by the Presiding Officer and barred from fuRher audience before the City Council at that meeting unless permission to continue is granted by a majority vote of the City Council.
SECTION 13. Miscellaneous Rules.
A. Silence
During a collective vote (Ayes and Nays), silence of any Council Member denotes an affirmative vote.
B. Continuance of an Item
Upon a Council Member's request and by majority vote, an item (not subject to a deadline) may be continued to the next agreed upon meeting. Anyone may request a continuance of an item and the City Council, by majority vote, may grant a continuance.
C. Failure to Vote
Every Council Member should vote unless disqualified by reason of a Conflict of Interest. If a member abstains because of a legal conflict of interest, he/she is not counted as part of the quorum and is not deemed to be voting.
If a member abstains for reasons other than a legal conflict of interest, he/she will be counted in establishing a quorum. Such an abstention will be counted with the majority vote of the quorum unless there is no majority in which case it will not be counted as a vote.
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City of Bellflower
Resolution No. 21 -55
Written Materials
Any person may submit written materials to the City Council for consideration. Should a person wish to have written materials considered by the City Council as part of an agenda item other than a public hearing, they must be submitted during working hours not later than twenty-four (24) hours before the scheduled meeting.
Disrupting legal meetings
Any member of the public making disruptive remarks or who becomes disruptive while addressing the Council or attending the City Council meeting so as to disrupt, disturb or othen/vise impede the orderly conduct of the City Council meeting will be removed forthwith by the Presiding Officer and barred from further audience before the City Council at that meeting unless permission to continue is granted by a majority vote of the City Council.
SECTION 13. Miscellaneous Rules.
A. Silence
During a collective vote (Ayes and Nays), silence of any Council Member denotes an affirmative vote.
Continuance of an Item
Upon a Council Member’s request and by majority vote, an item (not subject to a deadline) may be continued to the next agreed upon meeting. Anyone may request a continuance of an item and the City Council, by majority vote, may grant a continuance.
Failure to Vote
Every Council Member should vote unless disqualified by reason of a Conflict of Interest. If a member abstains because of a legal conflict of interest, he/she is not counted as part of the quorum and is not deemed to be voting.
If a member abstains for reasons other than a legal conflict of interest, he/she will be counted in establishing a quorum. Such an abstention will be counted with the majority vote of the quorum unless there is no majority in which case it will not be counted as a vote.
City of Bellflower
Resolution No. 21-55
D. Lost Motions
1 . A lost motion is one that fails to receive the necessary number of votes to carry. To revive a lost motion at the same meeting, the proper action is a motion to reconsider.
2.If
a
motion is lost on an Ordinance or action for the expenditure of money, or any motion when the legally required number of votes for passage is three; when two Members of the City Council are absent, the matter will be automatically continued to the next regular meeting. In the case of an Urgency Ordinance, the matter will be automatically continued when one Council Member is absent.
E. Motion to Reconsider
A motion to reconsider any action taken by the City Council may be made in accordance with the following:
1. The motion must be made by a Council Member, the majority vote, or, in the case of a lost motion, by any Council Member and may be seconded by any Council Member.
2.Except as otherwise provided, the motion must be made before the adjournment of the meeting at which the original action was taken.
3. The motion is debatable and has precedence over a pending motion.
4.Except as otherwise provided, if the action to be reconsidered is a Public Hearing item, it must be re-noticed in the event the motion to reconsider passes. Where it is clearly established that all interested members of the public are still present, the item may be reconsidered without further notice.
F. Tie Votes
If a tie vote occurs when a Member of the City Council is absent, the item will be automatically continued once to the next regular meeting of the City Council. Except in the event of an appeal to the City Council, if a tie vote occurs as a result of the abstention of a Council Member, the motion is lost.
If a tie vote on an appeal occurs as a result of the abstention of a Council Member, the appeal is deemed denied.
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City of Bellflower
Resolution No. 21-55
D. Lost Motions
1. A lost motion is one that fails to receive the necessary number of votes to carry. To revive a lost motion at the same meeting, the proper action is a motion to reconsider.
If a motion is lost on an Ordinance or action for the expenditure of money. or any motion when the legally required number of votes for passage is three; when two Members of the City Council are absent, the matter will be automatically continued to the next regular meeting. In the case of an Urgency Ordinance. the matter will be automatically continued when one Council Member is absent.
E. Motion to Reconsider
A motion to reconsider any action taken by the City Council may be made in accordance with the following:
1. The motion must be made by a Council Member, the majority vote, or, in the case of a lost motion, by any Council Member and may be seconded by any Council Member.
Except as otherwise provided, the motion must be made before the adjournment of the meeting at which the original action was taken.
The motion is debatable and has precedence over a pending motion.
Except as othewvise provided, if the action to be reconsidered is a Public Hearing item, it must be re-noticed in the event the motion to reconsider passes. Where it is clearly established that all interested members of the public are still present, the item may be reconsidered without further notice.
F. Tie Votes
If a tie vote occurs when a Member of the City Council is absent, the item will be automatically continued once to the next regular meeting of the City Council. Except in the event of an appeal to the City Council, if a tie vote occurs as a result of the abstention of a Council Member, the motion is lost.
If a tie vote on an appeal occurs as a result of the abstention of a Council Member, the appeal is deemed denied.
City of Bellflower
Resolution No. 21-55
G. Changing the Vote
A Council Member may change his/her vote only if the change is made immediately following the announcement of the vote by the Mayor and before the next agenda item is announced.
H. Abstention
A Council Member who publicly announces that he/she is abstaining from voting on a particular matter will not subsequently be allowed to withdraw the abstention.
I. Recusal — Non-Profit Organization Board of Directors Member City Council Members must recuse themselves from contract and/orfunding allocation decisions if they sit on boards of directors of non-profit organizations which are being considered for funding from the City.
SECTION 14. Rules of Debate.
A. Mayor as Presiding Officer
The Mayor may move, second, and debate from the Chair, retains all rights and privileges of a Council Member.
B. Appeals
Any ruling of the Mayor may be appealed at the request of any Council Member. The Mayor must call for a roll call vote to determine if the ruling is upheld.
C. Motions
A motion may be debated by the City Council after it is made. During debate, any Member of the City Council may "Call for a second." If
a
second is not
forthcoming, the motion dies for lack of a second. If the motion is seconded, the debate may continue.
D. Precedence of Motions
When a motion is before the Council, no other motion may be considered except:
1.Motion to Amend - Debatable only as it relates to the amendment.
An amendment which modifies the motion is an order; however, a substitute motion is in order if the intent is changed. Amendments -43-
City of Bellflower
Resolution No. 21-55
G. Changing the Vote
A Council Member may change his/her vote only if the change is made immediately following the announcement of the vote by the Mayor and before the next agenda item is announced.
Abstention
A Council Member who publicly announces that helshe is abstaining from voting on a particular matter will not subsequently be allowed to withdraw the abstention.
Recusal - Non-Profit Organization Board of Directors Member City Council Members must recuse themselves from contract and/or funding allocation decisions if they sit on boards of directors of non-profit organizations which are being considered for funding from the City.
SECTION 14. Rules of Debate.
A. Mayor as Presiding Officer
The Mayor may move, second, and debate from the Chair, retains all rights and privileges of a Council Member.
Appeals
Any ruling of the Mayor may be appealed at the request of any Council Member. The Mayor must call for a roll call vote to determine if the ruling is upheld.
Motions
A motion may be debated by the City Council after it is made. During debate, any Member of the City Council may “Call for a second.” If a second is not forthcoming, the motion dies for lack of a second. If the motion is seconded, the debate may continue.
Precedence of Motions
When a motion is before the Council, no other motion may be considered except:
1. Motion to Amend - Debatable only as it relates to the amendment.
An amendment which modifies the motion is an order; however, a substitute motion is in order if the intent is changed. Amendments
City of Bellflower
Resolution No. 21-55
are voted on first, the main motion vote is last. A motion may be amended more than once with each amendment being voted on separately. There may only be one amending motion on the floor at any one time.
2.Motion to Postpone - A motion to postpone indefinitely is debatable.
If such a motion is adopted, the principal question is lost. Motion to postpone to a definite time is subject to debate and amendment as it relates to propriety of the postponement and time set.
3.Motion to Table - Undebatable and not subject to amendment.
The purpose of a motion to table is to temporarily bypass the item. If a motion to table is adopted, the item may be taken from the table at any time before the adjournment of the next regular meeting. If the item is not taken from the table in the time specified, the business of the item is lost.
4.Motion for Previous Question
A motion for previous question closes debate on the main motion and is non-debatable. If motion fails, debate is reopened; if motion passes, then vote must be taken on the main motion.
SECTION 15. Adjournment. At 10:30 p.m., if business has not concluded, no new business will be considered unless by a majority vote the City Council agrees to begin new business. Items under consideration at 10:30 p.m. may be concluded. Any remaining items will be postponed to the next City Council meeting.
SECTION 16. Amendmenf/Suspension. The City Council may amend or suspend these rules at any time upon majority vote of the City Council.
SECTION 17. Administrative Mandamus. Persons who are dissatisfied with a decision of the City Council may have the right to seek review of that decision by a court.
In addition, the City has adopted §1094.6 of the Code of Civil Procedure which generally limits to ninety (90) days the time within which the decision of City boards and agencies may be judicially challenged.
SECTION 18. Unless specifically referenced, this Resolution supersedes all previous resolutions purporting to establish rules and procedures for rules of conduct and procedures for City Council meetings including, without limitation, Resolution No. 15-26 adopted June 8, 2015). Accordingly, those resolutions are rendered moot upon adoption of this Resolution and are accordingly repealed. Nothing in this Resolution is intended to, nor does it, supersede the City's most recently adopted Conflict of Interest Code. -44-
City of Bellflower
Resolution No. 21-55
are voted on first, the main motion vote is last. A motion may be amended more than once with each amendment being voted on separately. There may only be one amending motion on the floor at any one time.
2. Motion to Postpone - A motion to postpone indefinitely is debatable.
If such a motion is adopted, the principal question is lost. Motion to postpone to a definite time is subject to debate and amendment as it relates to propriety of the postponement and time set.
3. Motion to Table - Undebatable and not subject to amendment.
The purpose of a motion to table is to temporarily bypass the item. If a motion to table is adopted, the item may be taken from the table at any time before the adjournment of the next regular meeting. If the item is not taken from the table in the time specified, the business of the item is lost.
4. Motion for Previous Question
A motion for previous question closes debate on the main motion and is non-debatable. If motion fails, debate is reopened; if motion passes, then vote must be taken on the main motion.
SECTION 15. Adjoumment. At 10:30 pm, if business has not concluded, no new business will be considered unless by a majority vote the City Council agrees to begin new business. Items under consideration at 10:30 pm. may be concluded. Any remaining items will be postponed to the next City Council meeting.
SECTION 16. Amendment/Suspension. The City Council may amend or suspend these rules at any time upon majority vote of the City Council.
SECTION 17. Administrative Mandamus. Persons who are dissatisfied with a decision of the City Council may have the right to seek review of that decision by a court.
In addition, the City has adopted §1094.6 of the Code of Civil Procedure which generally limits to ninety (90) days the time within which the decision of City boards and agencies may be judicially challenged.
SECTION 18. Unless specifically referenced, this Resolution supersedes all previous resolutions purporting to establish rules and procedures for rules of conduct and procedures for City Council meetings including, without limitation, Resolution No. 15-26 (adopted June 8, 2015). Accordingly, those resolutions are rendered moot upon adoption of this Resolution and are accordingly repealed. Nothing in this Resolution is intended to, nor does it, supersede the City’s most recently adopted Conflict of Interest Code.
City of Bellflower
Resolution No. 21-55
SECTION 19. Electronic Signatures. This Resolution may be executed with electronic signatures in accordance with Government Code §16.5. Such electronic signatures will be treated in all respects as having the same effect as an original signature.
SECTION 20. The Mayor, or presiding officer, is hereby authorized to affix his signature to this Resolution signifying its adoption by the City Council of the City of Bellflower, and the City Clerk, or her duly appointed deputy, is directed to attest thereto.
SECTION 21. This Resolution will become effective immediately upon adoption.
PASSED, APPROVED, AND ADOPTED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF BELLFLOWER THIS 27T" DAY OF SEPTEMBER 2021.
t/ GL, °'°
Dan Koops, Mayor
ATTEST:
May a O hiqui, ity Clerk
APPRObED A TO FORM:
rl . Berger, ity Attorney
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City of Bellflower
Resolution No. 21-55
SECTION 19. Electronic Signatures. This Resolution may be executed with electronic signatures in accordance with Government Code §16.5. Such electronic signatures will be treated in all respects as having the same effect as an original signature.
SECTION 20. The Mayor, or presiding officer, is hereby authorized to affix his signature to this Resolution signifying its adoption by the City Council of the City of Bellflower, and the City Clerk. or her duly appointed deputy, is directed to attest thereto.
SECTION 21. This Resolution will become effective immediately upon adoption.
PASSED, APPROVED, AND ADOPTED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF BELLFLOWER THIS 27"H DAY OF SEPTEMBER 2021.
493.
Dan Koops, Mayor
ATTEST:
1/
rl H]. Berger, ity Attorney
STATE OF CALIFORNIA
COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES )SS
CITY OF BELLFLOWER
I, Mayra Ochiqui, City Clerk of the City of Bellflower, California, do hereby certify under penalty of perjury that the foregoing Resolution No. 21-55 was duly passed, approved, and adopted by the City Council of the City of Bellflower at the Regular Meeting of the City Council on September 27, 2021 , by the following vote to wit:
AYES: Council Members — Sanchez, Santa Ines, Dunton, Hamada and Mayor Koops
Dated: September 28, 2021
ayr c qui, City Clerk
City f Bel flower, California
SEAL)
-46-
STATE OF CALIFORNIA )
COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES )SS
CITY OF BELLFLOWER )
l, Mayra Ochiqui, City Clerk of the City of Bellflower, California, do hereby certify under penalty of perjury that the foregoing Resolution No. 21-55 was duly passed, approved, and adopted by the City Council of the City of Bellflower at the Regular Meeting of the City Council on September 27, 2021, by the following vote to wit:
AYES: Council Members - Sanchez, Santa Ines, Dunton, Hamada and Mayor Koops
Dated: September 28, 2021
City f Bel flower, California
(SEAL)
CITY OF BELLFLOWER
RESOLUTION NO. 05-45
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY
OF BELLFLOWER ESTABLISHING THE ORDER OF THE
BUSINESS FOR REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETINGS
AND REPEALING RESOLUTION NO. 96 -37
WHEREAS, the purpose of an agenda is to provide a framework within
w
h
i
c
h
a
meeting can be conducted; and
WHEREAS, pursuant to Bellflower Municipal Code Section 2 -1.9, the City Council desires to amend the Order of Business to establish a more efficient, cost - effective manner in which to conduct City business; and WHEREAS, Ordinance No. 1086 has been introduced to amend the Bellflower Municipal Code to commence the regular City Council meetings in conjunction with the Redevelopment Agency of the City of Bellflower at 5:30 p.m. to conduct closed session meetings and at 7 p.
m. to conduct the open session meetings.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF BELLFLOWER AS FOLLOWS:
SECTION 1. The Mayor, or the Mayor Pro Tern in his/her absence, shall preside at the meetings of the City Council.
SECTION 2. Notwithstanding circumstances which warrant that the presiding officer use his /her discretion in chairing the meeting, the following order of business for regular meetings shall be established:
5:30 p.m. Session:
Call to Order
Roll Call
Recess to Closed Session
Reconvene for Open Session
7 p.m. Session
Call to Order
Roll Call
Invocation
Pledge of Allegiance
Presentations /Announcements
Public Comments
Public Hearings
Ordinances and Resolutions for Consideration
Consideration Items
Consent Calendar
Reports
Adjournment
-47-
CITY OF BELLFLOWER
RESOLUTION NO. 05-45
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY
OF BELLFLOWER ESTABLISHING THE ORDER OF THE
BUSINESS FOR REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETINGS
AND REPEALING RESOLUTION NO. 96-37
WHEREAS, the purpose of an agenda is to provide a framework within which a meeting can be conducted; and
WHEREAS, pursuant to Beliflower Municipal Code Section 2-1.9, the City Council desires to amend the Order of Business to establish a more efficient, cost- effective manner in which to conduct City business; and WHEREAS, Ordinance No. 1086 has been introduced to amend the Beliflower Municipal Code to commence the regular City Council meetings in conjunction with the Redevelopment Agency of the City of Beliflower at 5:30 pm. to conduct closed session meetings and at 7 pm. to conduct the open session meetings.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF BELLFLOWER AS FOLLOWS:
SECTION 1. The Mayor, or the Mayor Pro Tern in his/her absence, shall preside at the meetings of the City Council.
SECTION 2. Notwithstanding circumstances which warrant that the presiding officer use his/her discretion in chairing the meeting, the following order of business for regular meetings shall be established:
5:30 pm. Session:
Call to Order
Roll Call
Recess to Closed Session
Reconvene for Open Session
7 pm. Session
Call to Order
Roll Call
Invocation
Pledge of Allegiance
Presentations/Announcements
Public Comments
Public Hearings
Ordinances and Resolutions for Consideration
Consideration Items
Consent Calendar
Reports
Adjournment
City of Bellflower
Resolution No. 05-45
SECTION 3. City of Bellflower Resolution No. 96 -37 is hereby repealed upon adoption of this Resolution.
SECTION 4. Resolution No. 05 -45 shall become effective upon the effective date of Ordinance No. 1086.
SECTION 5. The Mayor, or presiding officer, is hereby authorized to affix his signature to this Resolution signifying its adoption by the City Council of the City of Bellflower, and the City Clerk, or her duly appointed deputy, is directed to attest thereto.
PASSED, APPROVED, AND ADOPTED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF BELLFLOWER ON THIS 11TH DAY OF JULY 2005.
ATTEST:
nebra D. Bauchop, City Clerk
Doc 119265
-48-
City of Bellflower
Resolution No. 05-45
SECTION 3. City of Bellflower Resolution No. 96-37 is hereby repealed upon adoption of this Resolution.
SECTION 4. Resolution No. 05-45 shall become effective upon the effective date of Ordinance No. 1086.
SECTION 5. The Mayor, or presiding officer, is hereby authorized to affix his signature to this Resolution signifying its adoption by the City Council of the City of Bellflower, and the City Clerk, or her duly appointed deputy, is directed to attest thereto.
PASSED, APPROVED, AND ADOPTED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF BELLFLOWER ON THIS 11TH DAY OF JULY 2005.
//
lRafil mgaars, y r
ATTEST:
Debra D. Bauchop, City Clerk “"
Doc 1 19265
STATE OF CALIFORNIA )
COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES )SS
CITY OF BELLFLOWER )
II, Debra D. Bauchop, City Clerk of the City of Bellflower, California, do hereby certify under penalty of perjury that the foregoing Resolution No. 05 -45 was duly passed, approved, and adopted by the City Council of the City of Bellflower at its Regular Meeting of July 11, 2005, by the following vote to wit:
AYES: Council Members — Larsen, Pratt, Smith, King, and Mayor Bomgaars Dated: July 12, 2005
Debra D. Bauchop, City Clerk
City of Bellflower, Califomia
SEAL)
-49-
STATE OF CALIFORNIA )
COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES )SS
CITY OF BELLFLOWER )
1, Debra D. Bauchop, City Clerk of the City of Bellflower, California, do hereby certify under penalty of perjury that the foregoing Resolution No. 05-45 was duly passed, approved, and adopted by the City Council of the City of Bellflower at its Regular Meeting of July 11, 2005, by the following vote to wit:
AYES: Council Members — Larsen, Pratt, Smith, King, and Mayor Bomgaars Dated: July 12, 2005
Debra D. Bauchop, City Clerk E I
City of Bellflower, California
(SEAL)
CITY OF BELLFLOWER
RESOLUTION NO. 11 -75
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
BELLFLOWER ESTABLISHING POLICY REGARDING THE
PREPARATION OF CITY COUNCIL AND COMMISSION MINUTES AND
REPEALING RESOLUTION NO. 97 -22
WHEREAS, a sufficient record must be kept to furnish evidence that the City has complied with the law by which it is governed; and
WHEREAS, the City Clerk is responsible for keeping an accurate record of the proceedings ( "minutes ") of the City Council pursuant to Government Code Sections 36814 and 40801; and
WHEREAS, department clerical staff is responsible for keeping an accurate record of the proceedings of the City's commissions; and WHEREAS, the Attorney General has opined that such a duty does not require a verbatim account and only the substance of the proceedings is required (64 Ops. Cal.
Atty. Gen. 317 at Page 321 in 1981); and
WHEREAS, it is in the best interest of the City and community to establish a Citywide policy for the preparation of minutes; and
WHEREAS, with few exception, meetings of the City Council, Redevelopment Agency, Planning Commission, Parks and Recreation Commission, and Public Safety Commission are audio recorded and the recordings are retained for six years. City Council and Redevelopment Agency meetings are also cablecast and video recorded, . which are also retained for six years. These records would be available for the designated period if information beyond that contained in the minutes were requested at a later date; and
WHEREAS, the preparation of "Action Minutes" reduces the exposure to legal challenges by eliminating subjectivity on the part of the Staff person transcribing and /or reviewing the minutes, meets legal requirements, maximizes personnel resources, and is more cost effective and time efficient, particularly in view of the City's reduced staffing levels due to the economic decline and reduced work hours as a result of the furlough.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF BELLFLOWER AS FOLLOWS:
SECTION 1. The City Council of the City of Bellflower hereby approves the preparation of Action Minutes to record the proceedings of the City's commission and City Council meetings.
-50-
CITY OF BELLFLOWER
RESOLUTION NO. 11-75
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
BELLFLOWER ESTABLISHING POLICY REGARDING THE
PREPARATION OF CITY COUNCIL AND COMMISSION MINUTES AND
REPEALING RESOLUTION NO. 97-22
/
WHEREAS, a sufficient record must be kept to furnish evidence that the City has complied with the law by which it is governed; and .
WHEREAS, the City Clerk is responsible for keeping an accurate record of the proceedings (“minutes") of the City Council pursuant to Government Code Sections 36814 and 40801; and
WHEREAS, department clerical staff is responsible for keeping an accurate record of the proceedings of the City’s commissions; and WHEREAS, the Attorney General has opined that such a duty does not require a verbatim account and only the substance of the proceedings is required (64 Ops. Cal.
Atty. Gen. 317 at Page 321 in 1981); and
WHEREAS, it is in the best interest of the City and community to establish a Citywide policy for the preparation of minutes; and
WHEREAS, with few exception, meetings of the City Council, Redevelopment Agency, Planning Commission, Parks and Recreation Commission, and Public Safety Commission are audio recorded and the recordings are retained for six years. City Council and Redevelopment Agency meetings are also cablecast and video recorded, . which are also retained for six years. These records would be available for the designated period if information beyond that contained in the minutes were requested at a later date and
WHEREAS, the preparation of “Action Minutes” reduces the exposure to legal challenges by eliminating subjectivity on the part of the Staff person transcribing and/or reviewing the minutes, meets legal requirements, maximizes personnel resources, and ‘ is more cost effective and time efficient, particularly in view of the City’s reduced staffing levels due to the economic decline and reduced work hours as a result of the furlough.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT‘ RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE " CITY OF BELLFLOWER AS FOLLOWS:
SECTION1. The City Council of the City of Bellflower hereby approves the preparation of Action Minutes to record the proceedings of the City’s commission and City Council meetings.
City of Bellflower
Resolution No. 11 -75
SECTION 2. The following information shall be reflected in the Action Minutes:
A. Date, hour, and place of meeting
B. Name of the body
C. Whether it is a regular, adjourned, or special meeting D. Names of the members in attendance; if a member arrives late or departs before adjournment, the minutes should reflect the time of arrival and /or departure at that point in the minutes
E. Description of items
F. A listing of speakers, referencing the subject matter addressed, whether they spoke for or against the matter under discussion, and direction (if any) given
G. A statement of action (motion) and how the members voted H. Other information expressly requested by the body during the applicable meeting
I. Adjournment time and whether the meeting was adjourned to another time SECTION 3. With respect to hearings, the Action Minutes shall include:
A. The fact that required notice was given and that the hearing was held at the time and place specified in the notice (if such information is not incorporated in the staff report, ordinance, or resolution) B. Appropriate reference to any written evidence in the form of statements, affidavits, reports, photographs, maps, correspondence, or other objects filed at the hearing and included as part of the record C. Names of the people who spoke and whether their testimony was for or against the hearing subject
D. Findings of the body (if the findings are not incorporated in the ordinance, resolution, or staff report adopted /approved as a result of the hearing).
E. A statement of action (motion) and how the members voted F. Other information expressly requested by the body during the applicable meeting
G. The date, time, and place of the hearing if it is continued.
SECTION 4. A copy of the audio and video recording(s) of the City Council meetings shall be maintained for a period of six (6) years; the audio recording(s) of the commission meetings will be maintained for a period of six (6) years.
SECTIONS. The Mayor, or presiding officer, is hereby authorized to affix his signature to this Resolution signifying its adoption by the City Council of the City of Bellflower, and the City Clerk, or her duly appointed deputy, is directed to attest thereto.
PASSED, APPROVED, AND ADOPTED BY THE CITY COUNCIL . OF THE CITY OF BELLFLOWER THIS 12th DAY OF DECEMBER 2011.
Attest:
Debra D. Bauchop, City Cler Doc 251108
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City of Bellflower
Resolution No. 11-75
SECTION 2. The following information shall be reflected in the Action Minutes:
A.
B.
C.
D.
7"
!
“
.1
9 Date, hour, and place of meeting
Name of the body
Whether it' IS a regular, adjourned or special meeting
Names of the members In attendance; if a member arrives late or departs before adjournment, the minutes should reflect the time of arrival and/or departure at that point in the minutes
Description of items
A listing of speakers, referencing the subject matter addressed, whether they spoke for or against the matter ‘under discussion, and direction (if any) given
A statement of action (motion) and how the members voted Other information expressly requested by the body during the applicable meeting
Adjournment time and whether the meeting was adjourned to another time SECTION 3. With respect to hearings, the Action Minutes shall include:
A.
F”
7"
!
“
9 9
G.
The fact that required notice was given and that the hearing was held at the time and place specified in the notice (if such information is not incorporated in the staff report, ordinance. or resolution) Appropriate reference to any written evidence in the form of statements, affidavits, reports, photographs, maps, correspondence, or other objects filed at the hearing and included as part of the record Names of the people who spoke and whether their testimony was for or against the hearing subject
Findings of the body (if the findings are not incorporated in the ordinance, ' resolution, or staff report adopted/approved as a result of the hearing).
A statement of action (motion) and how the members voted Other information expressly requested by the body during the applicable meeting
The date, time, and place of the hearing if it is continued.
SECTION 4. A copy of the audio and video recording(s) of the City Council meetings shall be maintained for a period of six (6) years; the audio recording(s) of the commission meetings will be maintained for a period of six (6) years.
SECTION 5. The Mayor, or presiding officer, is hereby authorized to affix his signature to this Resolution signifying its adoption by the City Council of the City of Bellflower, and the City Clerk, or her duly appointed deputy, is directed to attest thereto.
PASSED, APPROVED, AND ADOPTED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF BELLFLOWER THIS 12h DAY OF DECEMBER 2011.
Attest:
Scfi A. Tarsen, nor
Debra D. Bauchop, City Cler; Doc 251108
STATE OF CALIFORNIA )
COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES )SS
CITY OF BELLFLOWER )
I, Debra D. Bauchop, City Clerk of the City of Bellflower, California, do hereby certify under penalty of perjury that the foregoing Resolution No. 11 -75 was duly passed, approved, and adopted by the City Council of the City of Bellflower at its Regular Meeting of December 12, 2011, by the following vote to wit:
AYES: Council Members — Dunton, Santa Ines, Koops, Bomgaars, and Mayor Larsen Dated: December 13, 2011
Debra D. Bauchop, City Clerk
City of Bellflower, California
SEAL)
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STATE OF CALIFORNIA )
COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES )88
CITY OF BELLFLOWER )
I, Debra D. Bauchop, City Clerk of the City of Bellflower, California, do hereby certify under penalty of perjury that the foregoing Resolution No. 11-75 was duly passed, approved, and adopted by the City Council of the City of Bellflower at its Regular Meeting of December 12, 2011, by the following vote to wit:
AYES: Council Members — Dunton, Santa Ines, Koops, Bomgaars, and Mayor Larsen Dated: December 13, 2011
\
Debra D. Bauchop, City Clerk
City of Bellflower, California
(SEAL)
CITY OF BELLFLOWER
RESOLUTION NO. 20-13
A RESOLUTION ESTABLISHING PROTOCOLS FOR CONDUCTING
VIRTUAL MEETINGS PURSUANT TO GOVERNMENT CODE § 36813
AND EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. N-29-20.
THE CITY COUNCIL RESOLVES AS FOLLOWS:
SECTIONI. Findings. The City Council finds as follows:
A. The City has been in a state of local emergency because of the COVID-19 Pandemic since March 13, 2020 at 2:51 p.m. That local emergency was confirmed via Resolution No. 20-09, adopted March 17, 2020 (the COVID-19 Pandemic").
B. Combatting the COVID-19 Pandemic requires the City to undertake various actions to distance individuals including, without limitation, implementation of virtual meetings held in accordance with the Governor's Executive Order No. N-29-20 issued on March 17, 2020.
C. Resolution No. 16-87, adopted December 12, 2016, sets the basic rules and procedures for conducting City Council meetings.
D. In order to conduct virtual meetings, however, it is necessary to adopt certain protocols that will help facilitate such meetings while both accommodating new technology and adhering to the requirements of California law regarding transparency including, without limitation, the Brown Act.
E. On or about March 31, 2020, the City Clerk's office (with the concurrence of the Mayor pursuant to Bellflower Municipal Code §§ 2.20.030 and
2.20.040) implemented certain protocols for virtual meetings as set forth in attached Exhibit "A," which are incorporated by reference (the "Protocols").
The Protocols were utilized to conduct the special meeting held on April 2, 2020.
SECTION 2. Virtual Meeting Protocols. The Protocols are approved and adopted for purposes of all future virtual City Council meetings. Per previous City Council consensus, all public comment is limited to three minutes unless otherwise extended by the Mayor with the concurrence of the City Council.
SECTION 3. Protocols; Authority.
A. Nothing in this Resolution is intended to, nor does it, supersede Resolution No. 16-87. Rather, this Resolution supplements Resolution No. 16-87 during the COVID-19 Pandemic.
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CITY OF BELLFLOWER
RESOLUTION NO. 20-13
A RESOLUTION ESTABLISHING PROTOCOLS FOR CONDUCTING
VIRTUAL MEETINGS PURSUANT TO GOVERNMENT CODE § 36813
AND EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. N-29-20.
THE CITY COUNCIL RESOLVES AS FOLLOWS:
SECTION1. Findings. The City Council finds as follows:
A. The City has been in a state of local emergency because of the COVlD-19 Pandemic since March 13, 2020 at 2:51 pm. That local emergency was confirmed via Resolution No. 20-09, adopted March 17, 2020 (the “COVlD-19 Pandemic”).
B. Combatting the COVlD-19 Pandemic requires the City to undertake various actions to distance individuals including, without limitation, implementation of virtual meetings held in accordance with the Governor’s Executive Order No. N-29-20 issued on March 17, 2020.
C. Resolution No. 16-87, adopted December 12, 2016, sets the basic rules and procedures for conducting City Council meetings.
D. In order to conduct virtual meetings, however, it is necessary to adopt certain protocols that will help facilitate such meetings while both accommodating new technology and adhering to the requirements of California law regarding transparency including, without limitation, the Brown Act.
E. On or about March 31, 2020, the City Clerk’s office (with the concurrence of the Mayor pursuant to Bellflower Municipal Code §§ 2.20.030 and
2.20.040) implemented certain protocols for virtual meetings as set forth in attached Exhibit “,"A which are incorporated by reference (the “Protocols”).
The Protocols were utilized to conduct the special meeting held on April 2, 2020.
SECTION 2. Virtual Meeting Protocols. The Protocols are approved and adopted for purposes of all future virtual City Council meetings. Per previous City Council consensus, all public comment is limited to three minutes unless othenivise extended by the Mayor with the concurrence of the City Council.
SECTION 3. Protocols; Authority.
A. Nothing in this Resolution is intended to, nor does it, supersede Resolution No. 16—87. Rather, this Resolution supplements Resolution No. 16-87 during the COVlD-19 Pandemic.
City of Bellflower
Resolution No. 20-13
B. The Protocols are adopted pursuant to Government Code § 36813. In the absence of separate procedural rules for individual boards and commissions, the Protocols adopted by this Resolution will apply to all City subsidiary boards and commissions. These Rules are intended to comply with, the Ralph M. Brown Act (Government Code §§ 54950-54962) and Executive Order No. N 29-20. Unless otherwise suspended by Executive Order No. N-29-20, or other subsequently adopted legislation, the Brown Act will supersede any conflicting provision of the Protocols.
SECTION 4. The Mayor, or presiding officer, is hereby authorized to affix his signature to this Resolution signifying its adoption by the City Council of the City of Bellflower, and the City Clerk, or her duly appointed deputy, is directed to attest thereto.
SECTION 5. This Resolution will become effective immediately upon adoption and will remain effective unless repealed or superseded.
PASSED, APPROVED, AND ADOPTED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF BELLFLOWER THIS 6TH DAY OF APRIL 2020.
Juan Garza, Mayor
ATTEST:
ayr Oghiqui, City Clerk
APPROVp5' TO FOR
Karl H. Bergey ty Attorney
ATTACHM
Exhibit A —Virtual Meeting Protocols
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City of Bellflower
Resolution No. 20-13
B. The Protocols are adopted pursuant to Government Code § 36813. in the absence of separate procedural rules for individual boards and commissions, the Protocols adopted by this Resolution will apply to all City subsidiary boards and commissions. These Rules are intended to comply with, the Ralph M. Brown Act (Government Code §§ 54950-54962) and Executive Order No. N 29-20. Unless othenivise suspended by Executive Order No. N-29-20, or other subsequently adopted legislation, the Brown Act will supersede any conflicting provision of the Protocols.
SECTION 4. The Mayor, or presiding officer, is hereby authorized to affix his signature to this Resolution signifying its adoption by the City Council of the City of Belillower, and the City Clerk, or her duly appointed deputy, is directed to attest thereto.
SECTION 5. This Resolution will become effective immediately upon adoption and will remain effective unless repealed or superseded.
PASSED. APPROVED, AND ADOPTED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF BELLFLOWER THIS 67" DAY OF APRIL 2020.
963/
Juan Garza, Mayor
ATTEST:
A'ITACHM, :
Exhibit A —Virtual Meeting Protocols
EXHIBIT A
VIRTUAL MEETING PROTOCOLS
CITY OF BELLFLOWER
These protocols are utilized in accordance with Government Code § 36813 and Executive Order No. N-29-20 in order to facilitate the City Council's virtual meetings.
General Notice Regarding Virtual Meetings:
All meetings of the City Council will be recorded including, without limitation, public comment.
Such recordings will include the screen name or displayed telephone number of individuals who are part of the audience even if they choose not to provide public comment.
Unless an individual is providing public comment, his/her audio will be muted and video will be disabled.
If an individual chooses to provide public comment, the City Clerk will identify the participant and unmute his/her audio.
Closed Sessions of the City Council — if any — will not be recorded.
Public Communications:
The following applies to persons wishing to provide public communications regarding agenda items for either a regular meeting or a special meeting:
At least 24 hours before a meeting, send an email to [email protected] to provide the City Clerk's Office with an email not longer than 50 words to be read into the record; OR
At least 24 hours before a meeting, provide the City Clerk's Office with written correspondence longer than 50 words — whether email or otherwise — that will be distributed to the City Council without being read into the record; OR At least 24 hours before a meeting, contact the City Clerk's Office via email at cclerk©bellflower.org or by phone (562) 804-1424, ext. 2222 to request to address the City Council electronically via audio/video during the meeting; OR During the meeting, send an email to [email protected] before the close of public comment. To the extent feasible, the communication will be read into the record; OR
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EXHIBIT A
VIRTUAL MEETING PROTOCOLS
CITY OF BELLFLOWER
These protocols are utilized in accordance with Government Code § 36813 and Executive Order No. N-29-2O in order to facilitate the City Council’s virtual meetings. >
>
General Notice Regarding Virtual Meetings:
All meetings of the City Council will be recorded including, without limitation, public comment.
Such recordings will include the screen name or displayed telephone number of individuals who are part of the audience even if they choose not to provide public comment.
Unless an individual is providing public comment, his/her audio will be muted and video will be disabled.
If an individual chooses to provide public comment, the City Clerk will identify the participant and unmute his/her audio.
Closed Sessions of the City Council — if any — will not be recorded.
Public Communications:
The following applies to persons wishing to provide public communications regarding agenda items for either a regular meeting or a special meeting:
At least 24 hours before a meeting, send an email to [email protected] to provide the City Clerk’s Office with an email not longer than 50 words to be read into the record; OR
At least 24 hours before a meeting, provide the City Clerk’s Office with written correspondence longer than 50 words — whether email or otherwise — that will be distributed to the City Council without being read into the record; OR At least 24 hours before a meeting, contact the City Clerk’s Office via email at [email protected] or by phone (562) 804-1424, ext. 2222 to request to address the City Council electronically via audio/video during the meeting; OR During the meeting, send an email to [email protected] before the close of public comment. To the extent feasible, the communication will be read into the record; OR
City of Bellflower
Virtual Meeting Protocols
During the meeting, individuals may utilize the "raise hand" option to be recognized by the City Council at the public comment sections identified on the City Council agenda. Individuals wishing to provide public comment will be recognized in the order that the "raise hand" notification was received; OR Public comment may be submitted via telephone during the meeting using the method described on the corresponding agenda.
For Regular Meetings: Public Comment regarding any item of public interest within the City Council's subject -matter jurisdiction will be accepted in the "Public Comment" section of the City Council Agenda.
For Special Meetings: Government Code § 54954.3(a) allows the City to limit public comment to only matters listed on the agenda. No other public comment will be accepted.
Meeting Decorum:
Persons wishing to be audience members to the meeting may do so anonymously.
Anonymous participants, however, will not be recognized for public comment.
Persons with names that violate community standards, e.g., fighting words, will not be admitted into the meeting. The City's host will notify those persons in the waiting room that they must either change their participation meeting name or will not be allowed into the meeting.
Persons will not be allowed rename themselves upon being admitted to the meeting from the "waiting room."
Persons who seek to by-pass the City's host controls will be dropped, and blocked, from the meeting.
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City of Bellflower
Virtual Meeting Protocols
During the meeting, individuals may utilize the “raise hand” option to be recognized by the City Council at the public comment sections identified on the City Council agenda. Individuals wishing to provide public comment will be recognized in the order that the “raise hand” notification was received; 0R Public comment may be submitted via telephone during the meeting using the method described on the corresponding agenda.
For Regular Meetings: Public Comment regarding any item of public interest within the City Council’s subject-matterjurisdiction will be accepted in the “Public Comment” section of the City Council Agenda.
For Special Meetings: Government Code § 54954.3(a) allows the City to limit public comment to only matters listed on the agenda. No other public comment will be accepted. > Meeting Decorum:
Persons wishing to be audience members to the meeting may do so anonymously.
Anonymous participants, however, will not be recognized for public comment.
Persons with names that violate community standards, e.g., fighting words, will not be admitted into the meeting. The City’s host will notify those persons in the waiting room that they must either change their participation meeting name or will not be allowed into the meeting.
Persons will not be allowed rename themselves upon being admitted to the meeting from the “waiting room.”
Persons who seek to by-pass the City’s host controls will be dropped, and blocked, from the meeting.
STATE OF CALIFORNIA )
COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES )SS
CITY OF BELLFLOWER
1, Mayra Ochiqui, City Clerk of the City of Bellflower, California, do hereby certify under penalty of perjury that the foregoing Resolution No. 20-13 was duly passed, approved, and adopted by the City Council of the City of Bellflower at its Special Meeting of April 6, 2020, by the following vote to wit:
AYES: Council Members - Santa Ines, Koops, Dunton,
Hamada, and Mayor Garza
Dated: April 6, 2020
1—Cts
r
Ma a O hiqui, City ClerkCiitofellflower, Califorb a
SEAL)
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STATE OF CALIFORNIA )
COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES )35
CITY OF BELLFLOWER )
l, Mayra Ochiqui, City Clerk of the City of Bellflower, California, do hereby certify under penalty of perjury that the foregoing Resolution No. 20-13 was duly passed, approved, and adopted by the City Council of the City of Bellflower at its Special Meeting of April 6, 2020, by the following vote to wit:
AYES: Council Members - Santa lnes. Koops, Dunton,
Hamada, and Mayor Garza
Dated: April 6, 2020
(SEAL)