Open Government Ordinance – Make City Hall More Transparent and Accessible
Openness in government strengthens democracy, promotes the delivery of efficient and effective services to the public, and contributes to better policy. There are three core elements of Open Government: transparency, participation, and collaboration. Open Government initiatives, embraced by many cities, promote public engagement in policy development by requiring that government documents and proceedings be accessible to all residents. Transparent and accountable government with institutions that empower communities is more responsive to public needs and priorities.
Key Principles for an Open Government Ordinance:
- City Council, city commissions, boards, and other policy-setting or advisory bodies (including sub or ad hoc committees), conduct deliberations in public and provide record of proceedings.
- Public is afforded meaningful opportunities to comment prior to city policy decisions and participate in city-sponsored outreach on issues that affect particular constituents, groups, or neighborhoods.
- All records, written and electronic, concerning city business are public, unless narrow traditional exceptions apply, with digital records retained indefinitely.
- Significant public records, including all matters before City Council and other policy-setting bodies, reports, budget documents, and large contracts, are accessible using the city’s user-friendly web portal where such information can be searched, sorted, and downloaded.
- City officials do not conduct city business using personal communication systems, including private email accounts and cellphones, that are not subject to open records laws.Sacramento Integrity Project | Open Governenment Ordinance:
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