Agenda Item Wording:
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Senate Bill 707 (SB 707) implementation overview- receive presentation on Senate Bill 707 which enhances public access to City Council meetings, adoption of Disruption Policy, and direction on outreach strategies.
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Agenda Date: 06/01/2026
Prepared by: Reyna Rivera, Chief Deputy City Clerk reyna.rivera@visalia.gov 559-713-4512; Leslie B. Caviglia, City Manager Leslie.caviglia@visalia.gov
Department Recommendation: Staff recommends that the City Council receive a report on Senate Bill 707 (SB 707) requirements, adopt the proposed Policy on Disruptions to telephonic or internet service during public meetings, and provide direction to staff regarding outreach strategies included in the draft Policy on Reasonable Efforts to Encourage Public Participation in City Council Meetings
Summary: Senate Bill 707 (SB 707) amends the Ralph M. Brown Act and establishes new requirements for public access, participation, and transparency for meetings of "eligible legislative bodies," effective July 1, 2026.
The City of Visalia City Council qualifies as an "eligible legislative body" under SB 707. At this time, implementation efforts are focused on the City Council, which is the City's only eligible legislative body under SB 707.
This report provides an overview of the City's responsibilities under SB 707, outlines staff's intended approach to implementation, presents a proposed policy addressing disruptions to telephonic or internet service during meetings, and seeks City Council direction on outreach strategies to encourage broader public participation.
Background Discussion:
The Ralph M. Brown Act requires that meetings of legislative bodies be open and accessible to the public. SB 707 expands these requirements for "eligible legislative bodies," including certain city councils, by establishing additional standards for remote participation, language access, and public engagement.
Effective July 1, 2026, the City Co...
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