As a former County Supervisor in Virginia, we had a similar rule but not nearly as strict. With 5 Board Members, the only thing forbidden was if we had a quorum when we met, meaning that any two of us could get together and discuss issues without a public hearing. I think that is a more reasonable position than our "Sunshine laws" that, apparently forbid any personal contact between Commissioners to discuss issues before the Board. However, if that is the law, our Commissioners should abide by it and not try to circumnavigate it. I just wonder if the previous Commissioners got away with private meetings between themselves and/or the Developer.
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