Historical Commission Agenda and Packet 2020 03 18

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9  considering that the quality of the outcome and how that outcome is achieved are both important. Quasi-Judicial Public Hearings Quasi-judicial boards will be called upon to conduct a public hearing on a matter coming before it. A public hearing is a process by which official input on a matter coming before a board is received from all those wishing to present testimony. It is a matter of fundamental due process that decisions made as a result of a quasi-judicial public hearing are based solely upon the evidence presented at the public hearing, and no prior investigation or discussion should be conducted by any member. If members have acquired information from outside the hearing, they should state during the hearing what the information is and allow public comment. The chairperson should declare the public hearing open, and after hearing public testimony, declare the hearing closed. Following the public hearing, board members should discuss the matter among themselves (still in open meeting), and reach a decision by adopting a motion that sets forth the basis for the decision. Any such decision should be set out in the minutes of the meeting and in a written resolution adopted by the board. Further information regarding the conduct of public hearings is available from your staff liaison or the City Clerk’s Office. In general, the City will always interpret meeting rules in favor of participation and disclosure. Try to keep discussions on topic and set discussion of new items for a later date. Always advise the public and participants of City’s local rules. ORGANIZATION OF THE BOARD Each board shall choose a chairperson and a vice chairperson. Additional offices may be created by the board from time to time as necessary. Chairperson/President The chairperson serves as the presiding officer over all meetings. It is the responsibility of the chairperson to conduct meetings, keep the discussion on track, encourage the input of ideas, and facilitate the overall decision process. The chairperson should clarify ideas as they are discussed and should repeat motions to ensure that all members fully understand the wording of the item upon which they are voting. It is also the chairperson's responsibility to sign all documents on behalf of the board. The chairperson, working with the staff liaison, is responsible for preparing an agenda for each meeting. Vice Chairperson The vice chairperson shall perform the duties of the chairperson in the absence of the chairperson. The vice chairperson may request the assistance of other members of the board in carrying out the duties of the office.