At least one pandemic-forced adaption is going to remain in Evansville city government.
The Indiana legislature left local governments a way to continue virtual meetings after the current public health emergency has ended, which could be the end of July. Local government bodies have to adopt a policy regarding virtual attendance that at a minimum, meets state guidelines.
Monday evening, Evansville city council attorney Joshua Claybourn outlined the policy, which is more restrictive than the current one. For example, a council member cannot attend more than two meetings in a row virtually, and votes on a number of matters must be done in person.
Claybourn was asked what happens if the conditions aren’t met.
“I think the short answer is your vote doesn’t count. I mean nothing prevents you from listening in and talking, but your vote won’t count unless you fit one of (approved exception) categories.”
The resolution on virtual attendance for Evansville City Council members is on their website.