City of Moreno Valley

The Moreno Valley City Council initiated release actions for the City Clerk, a long-term appointee, in 2000. No record of these initial actions are documented in agendas or reports from closed sessions.

Subsequently, the council contracted for a “City of Moreno Valley City Clerk’s Office Performance Review.” 3. In December 2000, although there was no official appointment, an “Acting City Clerk” began signing council meeting minutes.

In January of 2001, the City Manager issued a memo to the City Council stating the following: * “It is my understanding that I have been appointed as the City Clerk for the time being”. * The long-term appointee was notified that personal effects were to be removed from the office at 6:00 pm on January 3, 2001. * The City Manager/City Clerk appointed an “Interim City Clerk” effective as of January 4, 2001.

Actions precipitating items 3 and 4 above failed to comply with the requirements of the Brown Act including closed sessions and reconvening with reports of actions taken.

The Brown Act specifically prohibits other means which may be used to develop a collective concurrence as to actions to be taken. These other means (or type of meetings) include having less than a quorum present.

One council member stated, “We didn’t have to comply with the Brown Act regarding those meetings; we didn’t have a quorum.” 2 Recommendations Moreno Valley City Council 1. Comply with the Brown Act at all times.