In the News Journal story this morning on the continuing recovery and rehabilitation of Sussex County Councilman Vance Phillips, and the logistical problems his continued absence is presenting the Council, Sussex County Attorney Everett Moore says that Phillips cannot attend council meetings remotely, by either Skype, teleconference or videoconference because Delaware’s Freedom of Information Act expressly prohibits public bodies whose members are elected from participating via videoconference.
If that is true, that is a provision of the law that needs revision. Indeed, given that this blog and progressives in general throughout our state were quite instrumental in lobbying for the FOIA law, I think I will need it explained to me why and how this provision pertains to transparent government and the disclosure of information.