Referred to: The Laws, Rules and Government Services Committee (Chairman Kovacs and Legislators Gavaris, Hansut, Harmon, Kitchen, Levine, and Uchitelle)

Legislator Aaron J. Levine offers the following:

WHEREAS, the Ulster County Legislature considers and evaluates all proposed legislation through an open meeting system; and

WHEREAS, ability to observe all legislative actions is essential for transparency, and public input regarding such actions is highly encouraged by the Ulster County Legislature; and

WHEREAS, allowing maximum participation in government strengthens democracy, ensures policies reflect community needs, and builds trust between citizens and government; and

WHEREAS, the Ulster County Legislature respects religious freedom, fosters inclusivity, and promotes cultural understanding; and  

WHEREAS, Ulster County Legislature deems it appropriate to prohibit conduction of legislative meetings on certain Jewish holidays; now, therefore be it

          RESOLVED, Rule 10. A. 2. of the Rules of Order of the Ulster County Legislature, entitled “Monthly Meetings” is amended to read as follows:

2. If a regular meeting falls on a holiday, including Rosh Hashanah, Yom Kippur, Sukkot (first two and last two days), Passover (first two and last two days), Shavuot, and September 11, or if the Chairperson determines the safety and welfare of the public and members may be compromised due to inclement weather or any other emergency, said regular session or committee meetings shall be held on another day designated by the Chairperson.; and, be it further

            RESOLVED, that this rule change shall take effect upon an affirmative vote of this body subsequent to two consecutive readings,

and move its adoption.

FIRST READING:            

SECOND READING:

                                                               ADOPTED BY THE FOLLOWING VOTE:

        AYES:                       NOES:    

Passed Committee: Laws, Rules and Government Services on ____________.

FINANCIAL IMPACT:

NONE