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

In Washington, the rules for open meetings of municipal governing bodies are governed by the Open Public Meetings Act (OPMA). The OPMA requires that all meetings be open to the public, with certain exceptions. These exceptions include meetings related to attorney-client privilege, personnel issues, collective bargaining, and meetings where there are discussions regarding upcoming competitive bids or proposals. The rules for open meetings also require municipal governing bodies to provide adequate public notice for all meetings. This notice must be posted at least 24 hours before any meeting and must include the date, time, place, and purpose of the meeting. Additionally, the OPMA requires that all meetings be held at the usual meeting place of the governing body and all proceedings must be conducted in accordance with the rules of parliamentary procedure. Furthermore, any action taken by the governing body must be done by a majority vote taken during a properly noticed and open meeting. The minutes of any meeting must also be made available to the public. Finally, the OPMA prohibits meetings between governing bodies and outside individuals or organizations, unless such meetings are noticed and open to the public.

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

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