U.S. Supreme Court (Photo – Joe Ravi), Pasadena City Hall (Photo – W.K.)
After 2-1/2 years of closure due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the U.S. Supreme Court will allow the public to hear arguments in person on October 3, 2022.
By Wafic Khalil
A recent inquiry to the City’s spokesperson confirmed that the public still is not allowed to attend Pasadena City Council meetings in person. We get the convenience factor involved in the decision by some of our esteemed Councilmembers not to vote for an end to the COVID rule. To be at home, attending a meeting on Zoom, shielded by a computer screen, has its appeal for an elected official.
The physical presence of residents is an integral part of our democracy–plus nothing beats some shouting and drama. Every Councilmember chose to run for the job freely and willingly. It is time to stop using COVID as an excuse. The Mayor, many Councilmembers and staff already are meeting in person.
It is time to allow residents the right to attend meetings in person.
I basically agree with your article. However my concerns are not with CIVD but with the increased incivility and violence exhibited against elected and appointed officials in public meetings. If I were a Councilperson I would prefer the protective barrier that a virtual meeting offers. Until we as a people can be civil in our disagreements I feel that remote meetings are a safe alternative.