Subject:
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Re-adoption and extension of the Continuity of Government ordinance
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EXPLANATION AND SUMMARY:
On March 31, 2020, Town Council adopted a Continuity of Government ordinance at a special/emergency meeting called by the mayor. In consideration of the declared national emergency by the President of the United States, declaration of emergency by Virginia Governor Ralph Northam as well as the Fairfax County declaration and letter of opinion of the Attorney General related to emergency authority of localities, the Town Attorney recommended immediate adoption of a Continuity of Government ordinance and also recommended advertisement of the ordinance for re-adoption at Town Council's next regularly scheduled meeting. The advertised ordinance, authorized by Virginia Code Section 15.2-1413, would permit the Town for a period not to exceed six months to modify meeting and public participation methods to comply with the governor's executive order to limit public gatherings and practice social distancing. The emergency adoption was initially valid only for 60 days and was subsequently advertised and re-adopted by Town Council April 13 with an expiration date of September 30, 2020. The Town has developed and implemented meeting procedures related to electronic participation by public body members, public participation (i.e., submission of public comment through written and electronic methods), and logistical meeting planning to ensure safe social distancing. Due to the ongoing state of emergency caused by COVID-19, an extension of the Continuity of Government ordinance is necessary.
Strategic Plan Initiative: Vienna is an influential and well-governed community.
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Town Attorney Recommendation: The Town Attorney recommends re-adoption and extension of the Continuity of Government ordinance, adopted by Town Council at its special/emergency meeting of March 31, 2020 an...
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