The Gilroy Sunshine Ordinance, thankfully, is well on it’s way
to becoming law. It will re-inforce the commitment of our local
government to be forthcoming to residents with information, and let
attorneys employed by the city know that they are not in charge,
the people are.
Along the way, during a study session the City Council has voted
4-3 not to outlaw meetings between three Council members. We are
disappointed, but in lieu of that offer a suggestion: On the dais
at the next public meeting, Council members should disclose any
meeting of three at the meeting’s outset.
The Gilroy Sunshine Ordinance, thankfully, is well on it’s way to becoming law. It will re-inforce the commitment of our local government to be forthcoming to residents with information, and let attorneys employed by the city know that they are not in charge, the people are.
Along the way, during a study session the City Council has voted 4-3 not to outlaw meetings between three Council members. We are disappointed, but in lieu of that offer a suggestion: On the dais at the next public meeting, Council members should disclose any meeting of three at the meeting’s outset.
If Mayor Al Pinheiro goes out for a hamburger with Councilmembers Craig Gartman and Cat Tucker, that meeting and the topic of conversation should be disclosed publicly. That way, the public understands that they met and discussed, for example, the issue of unreinforced masonry buildings downtown.
This disclosure clause would afford the public a clear and tangible contextual connection regarding the topic before the Council.
It’s a reasonable compromise that supports transparency and the proviso should be included in the final version of the Sunshine Law.
