What are the rules for open meetings of municipal governing bodies?

In Oklahoma, municipal governing bodies must adhere to the Oklahoma Open Meeting Act. This Act provides the public with access to meetings and records of certain boards, commissions, and authorities. It also sets rules for holding open meetings, such as who can attend and what types of discussions can take place. The Act requires that all meetings of a governing body, with few exceptions, must be held in public with prior notice being given in accordance with the Act. All public notices mustinclude the date, time, place and agenda of the meeting. It is also required that the meeting be open to anyone who wishes to attend. The Act also specifies what types of matters can be discussed in an open meeting. Matters that can be discussed include public hearings, executive sessions, and votes on items. However, confidential matters, such as personnel, contract negotiations, legal advice, and litigation are expressly excluded from open meeting discussion. When a governing body meets in executive session, all members must be present, and a motion specifying the purpose of the executive session must be made. Additionally, no votes may be taken in executive session. Overall, the Oklahoma Open Meeting Act is in place to ensure that meetings of the governing bodies in Oklahoma are conducted in an open and transparent manner. By doing so, it allows members of the public to discuss and participate in the decisions that will affect them.

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