(a) Definitions. As used in this section:
(1) "Electronically" means by way of electronic equipment or devices, including but not limited to, live streaming by means of internet, local radio, television, cable public access channels; call in information for teleconference; or by means of any similar technology.
(2) "Open to the Public" means that that a public meeting, or hearing conducted in person, electronically, virtually, or any combination thereof, to which the public has access to the deliberations and official actions of the Commission.
(3) "Virtually" means by way of teleconference, video conference, or any other similar electronic technology.
(b) Attendance. The City Commission may permit its members to attend its public
meetings or hearings in-person, virtually, or a combination of the two. The following shall apply if any or all of the members are attending virtually:
(1) Each member attending virtually shall be considered present as if the member is in person at the public meeting or hearing, shall be permitted to vote, and shall be counted for purposes of determining whether a quorum is present at the public meeting or hearing;
(2) Any vote on a resolution, ordinance or formal action of any kind cast by a member attending virtually shall have the same effect as if the member is in person at the public meeting or hearing; and
(3) The Commission shall ensure that the public can observe and hear the discussions and deliberations of all the members of the Commission whether members are attending in person or virtually.
(c) Open to the Public. The Commission may determine the method by which its meetings, or hearings, are open to the public virtually, in person or a combination thereof. For public hearings conducted virtually, the public body must also establish means, through the use of electronic equipment that is widely available to the general public, to communicate during the meeting.
(c) Notice to the Public. Notice shall be given to the public in accordance with the
Codified Ordinances of the City of Gallipolis and consistent with the Charter whether they are in person, virtual or a combination of the two.
(Ord. 2021-21. Passed 7-20-21.)