In compliance with Governor Newsom’s Executive Order to minimize the spread of the coronavirus, the City of La Verne, like all California cities, stopped in-person city council meetings last March. While the public has been able to participate and stream the council meetings virtually, the necessary precautions taken as a result of the coronavirus pandemic has left many people feeling disconnected from each other and from local decision-makers. In an effort to bring the La Verne community together, the City of La Verne has updated its virtual council meeting format adding the ability for residents to also make public comment via the Zoom line with video.
Beginning with its next meeting on Monday, April 5, residents wishing to participate via Zoom must register before 5 PM on the day of the council meeting. Links will be unique for each meeting, and interested residents must register for each meeting. Once registered, residents will receive directions via email on how to log on and participate during the meeting.
Similar to other methods for public comment, residents will have a 3-minute time limit and may only speak once per agenda item. As a registered attendee, participants will be able to watch the meeting in real time and will be able to “raise their hand” if interested in providing public comment on an item. Once let into the meeting to provide their public comment, participants will be able to turn on their video and microphone so council members can see and hear them.
In addition to the new Zoom video participation option, residents will still have the option to email their comments or submit their phone number to the assistant city clerk to be contacted during the city council meetings, allowing residents to provide comments live over the phone. City council meetings will also continue to be streamed live on the City’s website in addition to Zoom.
“Although coronavirus numbers have significantly improved in our region over the last month, we must remain vigilant and continue to prioritize the health and safety of our community, city staff and council members,” continued Russi. “We are looking forward to being able to gather in person as soon as it is deemed safe to do so.”