City Council Considers Rules For Meeting By Skype

FREDERICK, Md. (AP) -- The Frederick Board of Aldermen is drafting rules for allowing members to participate in meetings by video or telephone.

The Frederick News-Post (http://bit.ly/1gra8P8 ) reports that the proposed policy would limit a member's participation to twice a year, and only at meetings where votes are not taken.

Some aldermen have already been using audio or Skype video-conferencing technology to participate in meetings. The rules would establish a policy for the practice.

Alderwoman Donna Kuzemchak says she's uncomfortable with the concept. She says elected officials should be "completely present" at public meetings.

But Alderman Phil Dacey says aldermen are busy people who might otherwise miss meetings altogether. Dacey voted from a remote location during a meeting earlier this year.

The board will discuss the proposal again on Aug. 12.
------
Information from: The Frederick (Md.) News-Post, http://www.fredericknewspost.com