Vandalia City Council discusses ordinance for meetings being available online

The Vandalia City Council had discussions at their meeting on Monday about adopting an ordinance in regards to meetings being available online.

For the past few meetings, the City Council meeting has been available via Zoom.  And, individuals who were watching via Zoom were given time to address the Council.  During Monday’s meeting, Alderman Andy Lester said it had been brought to his attention that they probably needed an ordinance to regulate some issues.  And, until they did that, it would probably be best not to have the meetings available online.  Alderman Bob Bowen said he knows some communities regulate how long individuals may speak when addressing the Council and City Attorney Ryan Connor said having some regulations in place was a good idea.

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Mayor Gottman said through the Illinois Municipal League he was told the only regulation they needed before going online was signs on the door letting everyone know the meeting was being recorded and broadcast live.  Alderman Steve Barker brought up the possibility of not allowing comments from those viewing the meeting online.

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Mayor Gottman referred the matter to a committee that will include Aldermen Bob Bowen, Andy Lester, Bret Brosman, City Administrator LaTisha Paslay, City Clerk Carla Huhn and the Mayor.  That committee will meet on Monday to discuss the matter further.  Up to this point, there has been very little online participation with just one viewer at both meetings in March and no viewers for Monday’s meeting.