Remote Participation Policy

At a glance

  • What: order 26-303, amending the Remote Participation Policy to end remote public comment.
  • Where it stands: Council passed the order 6-2 on 2026-10-26, ending remote public comment.
  • Next: Staff may return with ADA-related recommendations.

Details

  • The Government Operations Committee agenda of 2026-10-05 was not read.

Sources

Log

2026-10-26 - City Council

  • Order 26-303 passed 6-2, ending remote public comment; Councilors Leonard and Mallar voted no.

2026-10-26 - City Council Workshop

  • The order restores the previously approved policy that does not allow remote participation. Staff said ADA language is in the draft and they may return with further recommendations.

2026-10-19 - Government Operations Committee

  • The committee voted 3-2 to recommend removing remote participation by Zoom, with special accommodation for those physically unable to attend; Councillor Fish opposed. Staff said registration is not burdensome but identity and residence cannot be verified, and ADA accommodations are required regardless. Sanford and Saco were cited as not offering remote participation. Emailing or calling the city manager's office remain alternatives.

2026-10-26 - City Council

  • Draft minutes (in the November 9 packet) record the 6-2 vote, Councilors Leonard and Mallar opposed; the item label in the draft is garbled.

2026-11-10 - Board of Assessment Review

  • Order 26-303 is on the board's agenda.