[speedgibson] Speed Gibson: Behind Open Doors - Revisited

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Posted by Speed Gibson:
Behind Open Doors - Revisited
http://speedgibson.powerblogs.com/posts/1221538853.shtml


   Earlier, I wrote about how [1]local governments seem to be holding
   more work sessions. Critics quoted in the original Minneapolis Star
   Tribune article feel that too much important business is finding its
   way into these meetings, away from TV cameras and routine press
   coverage. Based on my own experiences, though, I didn't see much of a
   problem as these meetings are public by law, with few exceptions.
   I may have to reconsider, given tonight's meeting of the District 281
   School Board, held tonight, September 15.
    1. The meeting is not listed on the District web site, even now. This
       also means no agenda was published.
    2. The meeting is still listed as a under announcements in last
       week's Agenda.
    3. It is also referenced in a Web article about the upcoming
       Facilities Study, to be discussed at that work session.
    4. The agenda handed out says "Work/Special Session" meaning that
       they will go into formal session for a portion of the meeting,
       which was not televised.
    5. Ryan Development and The City of New Hope made presentations on
       the proposed relocation of District headquarters and the bus
       garage. This was major content and should have been done in a
       regular, televised session in my opinion.
    6. As such, the ESC boardroom was overcrowded. At a minimum, the
       adjoining overflow area should have been opened.

   I'm hoping this was an anomaly, as they were clearly having some
   technical issues with the web site the past few days. But nothing even
   hinted at going into session, i.e., where votes could be taken. I
   wonder if such votes could be legally challenged, given that there was
   no notice.
   The Board needs to address this administrative lapse, making clear
   just what their policy is regarding giving notice, including agendas.
   Their policy on receiving significant external input at work sessions
   and special sessions should also be clarified.

References

   1. http://speedgibson.powerblogs.com/posts/1221022960.shtml