(A) This section is not intended to alter state or local guidance for virtual attendance during public emergencies.
(B) The Board of Commissioners hereby adopts the requirements of I.C. 5-14-1.5-3.5 with respect to virtual attendance by members at public meetings of the Board of Commissioners. In the event of a conflict between the statute and this section, the provisions of the statute shall govern.
(C) A member of the Board may participate in a meeting by any electronic means of communication that allows all participating members to communicate simultaneously with one another; and, if the public is permitted to attend, also allows the public to simultaneously attend and observe the participating members. A member participating electronically will be considered present for purposes of determining a quorum. However, the member may not participate in any final action unless the member can be both seen and heard.
(D) If a member is participating electronically, minutes for the meeting shall reflect whether the members were physically present, virtually present, or absent; identify the electronic means, if any, by which members of the Board or public were attending.
(E) If a member is participating electronically, votes shall be taken by roll call vote.
(F) At least 50% of the members attending the meeting must be physically present at a meeting.
(G) A member may not participate virtually if a meeting is for the purpose of taking final action to adopt a budget, make a reduction in personnel, initiate a referendum, establish or increase a fee, establish or increase a penalty, use eminent domain power, or establish, raise, or renew a tax.
(Res. 2021-16-CM, passed 5-17-21)