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City Council Meeting Minutes March 23, 2022 <br />and the possibility of enacting time limits or number of times each council <br />member can speak on an item. Mayor Hughson commented on personal <br />responsibility and that all council members should come prepared, be ready, <br />bring notes, and be concise. Council Member Baker expressed his concern with <br />Roberts Rules of Order and feels this is an oppressive measure that limits <br />debate. He also expressed concern with the Virtual Meeting (Zoom) aspect no <br />longer being an option if Council returns to the dais. Mayor Hughson stated <br />she does not see the virtual aspect of these meetings going away due to factors <br />such as staff being able to participate as needed but not necessarily have to <br />stay in chambers or in their office to do so. However, she would like to see <br />council members return to the dais. Deputy Mayor Pro Tem Garza expressed <br />concern with rules at various meetings and how a standard set of rules should <br />be followed. Mayor Pro Tem Scott stated he does not prepare backup for these <br />discussion items because he wants this to be a discussion with his colleagues. <br />Council Member Gleason expressed his desire to not limit debate because he <br />may have a different perspective after hearing form colleagues. He agrees with <br />the need for decorum and he spoke of a generational divide and reminded <br />everything that this is a professional environment. He would like to see <br />everyone at the dais as this humanizes everyone. He acknowledges the strain <br />that Covid has put on everyone's life, but being in the same room can help in <br />finding common ground for the community. Deputy Mayor Pro Tem Garza <br />feels the rules of decorum are antiquated and are somewhat oppressive. <br />Council held extensive discussion on length of meeting, length of time on <br />agenda items, decorum concerns, and the return of council members to the <br />dais. Council provided the following consensus: <br />1. A retreat/facilitated discussion will be held for council members to attend. <br />2. After 30-60 minutes of discussion on an item, council will begin wrap up of <br />the item by limiting time or calling the question but will allow for extension <br />if/when necessary <br />3. Encourage council members to meet in chambers, but allow flexibility by <br />utilizing an online method. <br />4. Create a short policy document regarding executive session guidelines, <br />Council Member Prather and Council Member Baker will work on this with <br />assistance of the City Attorney. <br />31. Hold discussion regarding the process for appointee evaluations and provide direction to the <br />City Manager. <br />City of San Marcos page 14 <br />