I. RECOMMENDATION:
Adopt a policy establishing an Ad Hoc Community Outreach Committee consisting of the Mayor and Mayor Pro Tem, with one designated alternate Councilmember, to support coordinated community outreach and interagency communication in an advisory capacity only.
II. BACKGROUND:
The City of Coalinga regularly engages with a variety of community stakeholders, including school districts, special districts, educational institutions, and nonprofit organizations. While City staff routinely meet with these entities as part of day-to-day operations, there are circumstances where Council-level participation can be beneficial to ensure alignment with Council priorities and policy direction.
Establishing a formally authorized ad hoc committee provides clarity regarding when and how Councilmembers may engage with outside agencies on behalf of the City, while maintaining transparency, consistency, and compliance with applicable open meeting laws.
III. DISCUSSION:
The City Council requested that staff bring back and item establishing an Ad Hoc Community Outreach Committee to facilitate coordinated engagement with key public and private stakeholders, including local agencies, educational institutions, and nonprofit organizations. The proposed committee would serve in an advisory role only, with all action items and policy decisions returning to the full City Council for consideration and approval.
The committee structure is designed to remain compliant with the Ralph M. Brown Act by limiting membership, scope, and authority, while supporting consistent communication and collaboration with community partners.
A copy of the policy has been attached for the Councils consideration.
IV. ALTERNATIVES:
V. FISCAL IMPACT:
There is no direct fiscal impact associated with the establishment of the Ad Hoc Community Outreach Committee. Any future actions with fiscal implications would be brought before the City Council for consideration and approval. | | |