New rules will allow Decorah City Council members to attend meetings electronically

Posted: Tue, Feb 18, 2020 11:57 AM

Newly-approved rules of procedure for the Decorah City Council will allow council members to electronically take part in a city council meeting up to once a quarter.

The new rules sharply divided Decorah City Council members, but were passed on a 4-3 vote. City council member Emily Neal supported the adoption of the new rules, saying, "The technology is here." But city council member Kirk Johnson said, "I think it's a big mistake."

The rule was amended from its original wording to limit such electronic attendance to no more than once every three months. City council member Johanna Bergan voted for the new rule along with Emily Neal, Andy Carlson and Ross Hadley. Bergan said the new rule would be helpful to her, adding, "I am a council member who can't attend every meeting."