City Council Agenda Report
TO: Mayor Clauzel and Members of the City Council
FROM: Fernando Ulloa, Interim City Manager
BY: Nubia Goldstein, City Attorney
MEETING DATE: December 17, 2024
ITEM NO: 8.1
SUBJECT: Adopt Resolution No. 2024-70 A Resolution of the City Council of the Patterson City Council adopting the City Council Rules and Procedures Handbook. The Handbook outlines standardized procedures for the efficient conduct of City Council meetings, establishes clear guidelines for Councilmember behavior, and ensures consistency and transparency in the decision-making process.
RECOMMENDATION
Motion to Adopt Resolution No. 2024-70 A Resolution of the City Council of the Patterson City Council adopting the City Council Rules and Procedures Handbook. The Handbook outlines standardized procedures for the efficient conduct of City Council meetings, establishes clear guidelines for Councilmember behavior, and ensures consistency and transparency in the decision-making process.
BACKGROUND
At the December 3, 2024, City Council meeting, the Council directed staff to adjust the City Council Rules and Procedures Handbook to address a rotating interview panel for commission appointments and a process for adding items for the agenda. Staff has revised the Handbook to incorporate the proposed changes to pages 4,5,53, 54 of the Handbook for Council approval.
The proposed City Council Rules and Procedures Handbook was developed to provide clarity by establishing a well-organized structure for meetings and decision-making processes, ensuring that all participants, including the public, understand the expectations. It promotes consistency through standardized practices that guide the conduct of meetings and decisions, reducing ambiguity and fostering trust in the process. Transparency is emphasized by setting clear rules for public participation and Councilmember behavior, ensuring an open and inclusive government. Additionally, the Handbook establishes a framework for accountability, holding Councilmembers responsible for their roles and duties while maintaining order and decorum during meetings. Designed as a living document, the Handbook may be revisited and amended by the City Council as necessary. Its approval represents a significant step toward fostering a more organized and efficient local government.
It is recommended that the City Council:
. The City Council hereby adopts the City Council Rules and Procedures Handbook as the official guide for conducting City Council meetings.
2. City Staff is directed to implement the procedures outlined in the Handbook starting with the next scheduled Council meeting.
3. A review of the Handbook shall be scheduled within one year of adoption to assess its effectiveness and make any necessary amendments.
FISCAL IMPACT
There is No Fiscal Impact to the FY 24/25 budget.