2.04.190 Censure.
The council has an inherent right to make and enforce its own rules, and the laws to which it is subject as imposed by the state and federal government, and to utilize its own constitutionally guaranteed right to voice its objection to those rules being violated.
(1) Integrity of Council. If a member of council violates these rules of procedure, city ordinances, the city charter, or state laws applicable to governing bodies, the council may take action to protect the integrity of the council and discipline the member as follows:
(a) With a public reprimand called a censure;
(b) Not be recognized by the chair to speak at a meeting;
(c) Lose all or a portion of their committee or commission assignments (both within the city North Bend or with other governmental agencies); and/or
(d) Have official travel restricted.
(2) Investigation. Prior to issuing a censure, the council shall investigate the actions of any member alleged to have violated these rules of procedure, city ordinances, the city charter, or state laws. The mayor shall work directly with the city attorney to ensure the investigation provides due process and complies with all applicable laws, policies, and procedures. If the mayor is the person under investigation, the council president shall work directly with the city attorney to ensure the investigation provides due process and complies with all applicable laws, policies, and procedures.
(3) Council Meeting. Once the investigation is complete, the matter shall be referred to the city council, either in an open meeting or in executive session, to discuss the investigation’s findings. The council member who is subject to the investigation shall be provided sufficient notice of the council’s meeting to afford them the opportunity to request an open hearing under ORS 192.660(2)(b).
(4) Resolution of Censure. If the council determines that there has been a violation of the rules of procedure, city ordinances, the city charter, or state laws applicable to governing bodies, and the violations were of such a nature to warrant the issuance of a censure, the council shall adopt a resolution of censure during a publicly noticed meeting. (Ord. 2052 § 1, 2021)