COUNCIL AGENDA REPORT
TO: Mayor and City Council
FROM: Donna G. Schwartz, Chief Deputy City Clerk
DATE: June 2, 2026
SUBJECT: Adoption of Resolutions Approving a Disruption Policy in the Event there is an Interruption to Telephonic or Internet Services During a City Council Meeting and Adoption of a Public Outreach Policy
Description:
The City Council to consider adopting Resolutions approving a policy regarding disruption of telephonic or internet services during a city council meeting and a public outreach policy.
Environmental Notice: The activity is not a “Project” as defined under Section 15378 of the California Env ironmental Quality Act State Guidelines; therefore, pursuant to State Guidelines Section 15060(c)(3) no environmental review is required.
RECOMMENDATION:
1. Adopt a Resolution approving a Disruption Policy in the event there is a disruption of telephonic or internet service occurring during a city council meeting in compliance with Senate Bill 707 and Government Code
§54953.4(b)(1)(A)(i)(l)(ib)(la); and
2. Adopt a Resolution approving a Public Outreach Policy.
BACKGROUND:
SENATE BILL 707 (SB 707)
SB 707 was signed by the governor on October 3, 2025. It modernizes the Ralph M.
Brown Act beginning in 2026 to expand public participation, increase transparency, and adapt to modern technology. The legislation introduces new requirements and clarifications designed to improve governmental accountability and ensure members of the public have greater opportunities to participate in decision-making processes.
DISCUSSION:
As part of the amendment to the Brown Act, eligible legislative bodies (City Council) must adopt a disruption of telephonic or internet service policy p ursuant to Government Code Section 54953.4(b)(1)(A)(i)(I)(ib)(Ia) on or before July 1, 2026, at a noticed public meeting in open session and not on the consent calendar. The policy shall address the procedures for recessing and reconvening a meeting in the event of a telephonic or internet service 2 disruption and the efforts that the eligible legislative body shall make to attempt to restore the service.
SB 707 also requires the City Council to establish reasonable efforts, which will be made by the City to invite groups that do not traditionally participate in City Council meetings to attend City Council meetings (Government Code Section 54953.4(b)(3)(C)(i)). Staff has developed a Public Outreach Policy that includes actions to invite such groups.
Fiscal Considerations
There is no fiscal impact associated with adoption of the policies.
Impact on the Community
Adoption of a Disruption Policy will provide clear guidance for the presiding officer, staff, and the public, in the event there is a disruption to telephonic or internet service and adoption of the Public Outreach Policy will provide clear guidance to staff in establishing efforts to invite groups that do not traditionally attend or participate in City Council meetings.
ATTACHMENT(S)
A. Resolution Approving a Disruption Policy
B. Exhibit A to Resolution - Disruption Policy
C. Resolution Approving Public Outreach Policy
D. Exhibit A to Resolution - Public Outreach Policy