DATE:
June 9, 2026
18
TO:
Board of Supervisors
SUBJECT
Title
ADOPT A POLICY TO REQUIRE TRANSPARENCY AND ACCOUNTABILITY FOR ALL BOARD OF SUPERVISORS AD HOC SUBCOMMITTEES (DISTRICTS: ALL)
Body
OVERVIEW
On May 19, 2026 (34), the Board of Supervisors considered recommendations brought forward by the Chief Administrative Officer to provide standardized requirements regarding the creation, operation, notice, access, and documentation of Board of Supervisors ad hoc subcommittee activities. Although the Board discussed several options developed and presented by County staff, the Board did not approve any of those options.
Based on the discussions that occurred during the meeting on May 19, 2026, I recommend that the Board adopt a new policy, Board Policy A-75, "Board of Supervisors Ad Hoc Subcommittees Policy" (Attachment 1). This recommended action would:
* Establish comprehensive and standardized procedures for Board ad hoc subcommittees, including the posting of meeting notices, public access to meetings, documentation, and record availability, ensuring consistent operational expectations across all Board-created subcommittees
* Enhance transparency and support the County's Strategic Plan initiatives related to Transparency, Accountability, and Community Engagement by making meeting agendas, recordings, minutes, memos, consultant information, and all meeting materials publicly accessible on a centralized County webpage
* Provide clear definitions and operational requirements distinguishing ad hoc subcommittees from standing committees, reducing ambiguity around Brown Act applicability while still ensuring robust public access to information
* Clarify County staff responsibilities, including designated staff leads, preparation of agendas and minutes, logistical support, and coordination with Board offices, which may reduce confusion and improve consistency in subcommittee operations
Although an existing policy, Board Policy A-74, "Participation i...
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