Chapter Four –Legal Matters (Cont.)
Non-Agendized Items Discussion or action on items that are not included in the posted agenda may only occur in limited circumstances. To discuss or act on an item not included in the posted agenda, a commission/committee must: Determine that the need to act arose after the agenda was posted, and that the action is required prior to the next meeting, with a brief explanation of the circumstances constituting the need for action and the reason the need arose after posting the agenda. This explanation should be included in the meeting minutes. Approve the above determinations by a vote of at least two-thirds of the members of the body, or by a unanimous vote if less than two-thirds of the members are present. Discuss and act on the item if the determinations are approved. Include that action in the meeting’s minutes. Informational items placed on an agenda may not be acted upon at the meeting. Any member may, however, request that the informational item be placed on a future agenda for consideration. The Legislature amends provisions of the Brown Act periodically, rendering the law increasingly complicated. For example, Senate Bill 707 amended several provisions that went into law on January 1, 2026. It is recommended you familiarize yourself with the provisions of the Brown Act by reviewing “Open & Public IV: A “Guide to the Ralph M. Brown Act,” a publication of the League of California Cities, which is included in Appendix D. For your reference a summary of major Brown Act updates under Senate Bill 707 is also Included in Appendix D. The full text of the Brown Act can be accessed on the Web at http://www.leginfo.ca.gov by selecting “California Law,” “Government Code,” and entering Section “54950.” 4.1.1 Meeting Types The Brown Act regulates a legislative body’s regular meetings, adjourned meetings, special meetings, and emergency meetings. In addition, City Council Policies/Procedures (Ordinance No. 22-02, City Council Resolution No. 26-84) further increases transparency and participatory democracy by expanding Brown Act requirements for the City Council, Great Park Board, and City Commissions and Committees. “Regular meetings” occur at the dates, times, and locations set by resolution, ordinance, bylaws or other formal action of the legislative body and are subject to seven (7) day posting requirements.
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