Camarillo City Council
AGENDA REPORT
Date: October 22, 2025
To: Honorable Mayor and City Councilmembers
From: Greg Ramirez, City Manager
Submitted by: Carrie Weal, City Clerk
Subject: Revised City Council Policy 1.05 – Non-Conflict Abstention Votes
BACKGROUND
The Policy Committee reviewed the voting provision in City Council Policy 1.05, which currently states that all non-conflict abstentions are counted as “aye” votes. The Committee concurred with the referring Councilmember that this practice may misrepresent a Councilmembers’ position. Consequently, the Committee recommended that the full Council consider amendments to the policy.
DISCUSSION
Under the Political Reform Act, abstentions due to financial conflicts of interest are excluded from the vote. However, the Act does not address non-conflict abstentions, leaving cities the discretion to establish their own procedures. A non-conflict abstention occurs when a Councilmember is present but voluntarily chooses not to vote on a motion without any legal obligation to abstain.
At its meeting on October 7, 2025, the City Council directed staff to revise Section G of Policy 1.05 to align with the Traditional Rule, as outlined in both Robert’s Rules of Order and Rosenberg’s Rules of Procedure. Under this rule, all non-conflict abstentions are treated as non-votes and are not counted in the final vote.
FISCAL IMPACT
There is no budget impact as a result of this action.
RECOMMENDATION
Approve the revised City Council Policy 1.05, City Council Meetings.
ATTACHMENTS
1. Policy 1.05, City Council Meetings - Proposed