Members of Jefferson City government boards may have the option going forward to participate in meetings virtually.
As it stands, virtual participation is limited to certain boards and commissions, but the Jefferson City Council will consider a policy change as part of its Tuesday meeting.
The change, recommended by the Committee on Administration last month, would let boards choose whether to allow virtual participation. Either the chair or by vote of the board could allow it.
The provision includes some caveats.
It would not allow for virtual participation during public hearings, such as those held by the Planning and Zoning Commission to rezone a property. Those presenting as part of a public hearing may appear virtually if the board presents that option.
It also states that up to half of a board's meeting can be completely virtual, unless approved by the Committee on Administration and the full City Council.
The topic came up as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. An emergency declaration allowed all boards to operate virtually in an effort to reduce the spread of the virus. The emergency declaration expired at the beginning of June.
This new rule would parallel the emergency declaration, requiring any member participating virtually to have their face on camera. As long as it remains on, the member is considered part of the quorum and can vote on issues presented.
Boards are not required to offer virtual participation to members of the public under this provision, but officials have said City Council meetings will continue to be livestreamed and other meetings can be as well.
In an emergency situation, such as the pandemic, the provision allows meetings and public hearings to be conducted virtually.
Also during Tuesday's meeting, the City Council will discuss:
Authorizing a $987,787.50 construction contract with Jefferson Asphalt for the 2021 mill and overlay project.
Authorizing $202,000 supplemental appropriation from general fund, parks fund, airport fund, parking fund, transit fund, wastewater fund and workers compensation fund.
Approving a final subdivision plat of the Schotthill Woods subdivision.
The City Council will vote on:
Authorizing $59,559 supplemental appropriation with the parks fund, creating an amphitheater budget division.
Authorizing the acceptance of a $243,750 HMGP (Hazard Mitigation Grant Program) grant for the purpose of reconstructing stormwater infrastructure near 608 and 609 Norris Drive.
Amending Chapter 19, Schedule J (Parking Prohibited), by the modification of Vieth Drive, south of Canterbury Drive.
Dissolution of the Facade Improvement Committee, moving its duties and powers to the Historic Preservation Commission.
Authorizing an agreement with Midwest ATC Service Inc. for air traffic control services at the Jefferson City Memorial Airport.
How to participate
The City Council will meet in person Tuesday but will have a virtual option due to COVID-19 and social-distancing recommendations.
Community members can attend the meeting at 320 E. McCarty St. in the council chambers or view the meeting live via the city's YouTube page.
Those who wish to participate can also call into the meeting at 404-397-1516 or via WebEx with meeting number 187 934 3701 and password 1234.