Under the current “emergency conditions” related to COVID-19, charter schools may conduct board meetings (or committee meetings) via teleconference. The requirements (contained in OCGA 150-14-1(g)) are as follows:
- That there is a situation involving “public safety or the preservation of property or public services.” The current situation qualifies.
- You should provide notice through the following methods: (a) at the normal place for meetings; (b) on your website; and (c) through the legal organ.
- The notice should state (a) the date and time of the meeting; (b) teleconference instructions; and (c) the reason for meeting by teleconference (e.g. “Due to emergency circumstances surrounding coronavirus, this meeting will be held via teleconference.”); and (c) the subjects to be discussed or the agenda – which should also be posted to the school’s website as far in advance as possible.
- You must provide access to the public for the teleconference (so include the conference number on the notice).
Your meeting minutes should also reflect that the meeting was held via teleconference under emergency circumstances.
If you have any questions about this, contact Chris Adams at adams@khlawfirm.com