Golden State Today

A recent report from California Common Cause reveals that remote public participation in city council meetings is both feasible and beneficial for expanding public engagement in local government. The report, based on a survey conducted between June 20 and August 9, 2023, gathered responses from about one-quarter of California cities. It sought the perspectives of city clerks on implementing remote public comment, its costs, benefits, and challenges.

Sean McMorris, program manager for transparency, ethics, and accountability at California Common Cause, emphasized the importance of public access to democracy. "It’s simple — when the public has more access and the ability to participate in our democracy, they do," McMorris stated. He highlighted that remote options are particularly valuable for working families or individuals unable to attend meetings in person.

California law supports public participation in local governance through the Brown Act. However, it requires physical attendance at meetings to exercise this right fully. This requirement poses accessibility issues for many citizens with constraints such as transportation or family obligations.

The shift to remote meetings during the COVID-19 pandemic introduced new possibilities for open government operations. Yet questions about logistics and effectiveness persist regarding regular implementation of remote comments outside emergency situations.

The report concludes that most city halls consider remote public comment a viable enhancement to governmental processes. It notes that lawmakers have hesitated to expand these options without conditions due to concerns over potential costs or burdens. However, data from the surveyed cities could inform future legislative decisions.

While not suggesting that remote options should replace traditional methods entirely, the report advocates for their inclusion alongside in-person participation as a means of strengthening local democracies.