Oberlin issue explained

Issue 13 on the November ballot is an Oberlin City Charter amendment that warrants some explanation.

Currently, Oberlin’s Charter requires that all meetings of council be conducted in accordance with state law, which requires the physical presence of members of council at meetings. State law was temporarily changed during the pandemic to allow electronic meetings.

The intent of this amendment is to provide flexibility by permitting council, through its home rule authority, to enact legislation that would allow electronic meetings, should a situation arise that warrants it.

The proposed amendment does not establish the ability to meet electronically; it only provides a mechanism to do so. If and when council should deem it necessary to meet electronically, the public would have a voice in establishing the enabling ordinance.

In addition, public access to and participation in all open meetings of council are firmly assured and the conduct of meetings would always be in accordance with Council Rules.

Linda Slocum President, Oberlin City Council