Title
Consider finding, pursuant to AB 361 and in order for the Planning Commission to continue to meet remotely, that the COVID-19 pandemic state of emergency declared by Governor Newsom is still in effect; that the Planning Commission has reconsidered the circumstances of the state of emergency; and that the Monterey County Health Officer continues to recommend social distancing measures for meetings of legislative bodies.
Proposed CEQA action: Not a project pursuant to CEQA Guidelines section 15378(b)(5)
Report
RECOMMENDATION:
It is recommended, pursuant to AB 361 and in order for the Planning Commission to continue to meet remotely, that the Monterey County Planning Commission find: that the COVID-19 pandemic state of emergency declared by Governor Newsom is still in effect; that the Planning Commission has reconsidered the circumstances of the state of emergency; and that the Monterey County Health Officer continues to recommend social distancing measures for meetings of legislative bodies of local agencies.
SUMMARY/DISCUSSION:
On September 16, 2021, Governor Newsom signed AB 361. This legislation amends the Brown Act to allow meeting bodies subject to the Brown Act to meet via teleconference during a proclaimed state of emergency in accordance with teleconference procedures established by AB 361 rather than under the Brown Act's more narrow standard rules for participation in a meeting by teleconference. AB 361 provides that if a state or local health official recommends social distancing, a "legislative body" - which is defined to include the Planning Commission -- may meet remotely after September 30, 2021, provided that within 30 days of the first meeting after September 30, and every 30 days thereafter, the legislative body finds: 1) the Governor's proclaimed state of emergency is still in effect; 2) the legislative body has reconsidered the circumstances of the state of emergency; and 3) the Monterey County Health Officer continues to recommend so...
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