The following protocols were developed at an Albany City Council training session held on January 16, 2018. They are intended to set expectations for members of the Albany council and provide a model to guide the conduct and working relationships of council members. While some protocols relate specifically to council meetings, others are meant to apply broadly to the full scope of council members’ official interactions. The list is not intended to be exhaustive, and may be augmented or amended by future action of the council.
Respect
Council members agree to use respectful speech and positive body language when interacting with each other, staff, and the public, and will follow meeting procedures/protocols as established by the council.
Civility
Council members agree to demonstrate civility in their professional interactions, both within and outside of the City organization. Comments during meetings will remain thoughtful and measured, avoiding exaggerated, provocative, or personal remarks.
Compromise
Open-mindedness and active listening will be practiced by council members during deliberations in an effort to pursue compromise whenever possible.
Tolerance
Council members will endeavor to respectfully ‘agree to disagree’ in the event compromise is not possible.
Brevity
Council members will ensure their comments during meetings are succinct and relevant to the topic at hand.
Public unity
Out of respect for the institution and the process through which policy is made, council members will refrain from publicly denigrating council decisions once they are made.
Mayor’s role
Council members recognize that the mayor’s position requires balancing the important roles of facilitating meetings and contributing policy perspectives.
Liaison role
Council members serving as City liaisons to external boards, commissions, committees, and organizations will be responsible for sharing important news and pertinent developments with the council at regular meetings.
Communications with staff
Council members will keep the city manager informed of communications they may have with staff, including copying the city manager on any emails to staff.
