Protecting Your Right to Know
The right to know what the government
is doing is integral to our democracy.
The League of Women Voters has been an active champion of openness in government throughout our history. The organization's principles include the requisite that “government bodies protect the citizen's right to know by giving adequate notice of proposed actions, holding open meetings and making public records accessible.” (LWVUS Looking for Sunshine) Observer Corps are a structured way for individuals to exercise their right to know.
Purpose:
Observing government in action makes a statement that the community is watching the process of governing. The League observer is the representative of the public at these meetings and seeks to build good public relations with the community and governmental entities.
LWV monitors public meetings to assure there is transparency, accountability and citizen engagement that supports good government. We also monitor for issues that are relevant to the community or to established League positions or the League’s interest. If an item that is being discussed is related to one of LWVGC’s positions, the observer’s comprehensive report will alert the Board to the possibility the League should speak out or take action on the issue.
Observers watch the general operations of public meetings. Observers monitor both the issues being discussed as well as the process by which they are being discussed. Observers let elected and appointed officials know that someone is watching what decisions are being made and how they are being made.
Observers help ensure that citizens are aware of the decisions that impact their lives. They help ensure that the issues facing their community are being handled “in the sunshine,” in the open.
An observer is an individual who attends a governmental meeting, notes what happens at the meeting, and reports back to the League and through the League to the community. An observer’s presence at meetings demonstrates a desire to be an informed and active participant in government, seeking to understand public policy issues, and the workings of government boards, commissions and councils.
Observers generally do not “act” on issues in these meetings unless serving as a designated spokesperson for the League. Observers should not provide commentary or testimony on issues on behalf of the League. Observers may communicate with public officials if questions arise about policies and procedures or if there are recommendations for better practices.
Observers must be current paid members of League and attend one formal training. Resources include LWV materials, Ohio's Sunshine Laws (Open Meetings and Public Records Acts), Ohio Attorney General Sunshine Laws, training and website resources, and policies and procedures from local government review.
Any government agency is observable — from school board meetings to City and County Council meetings. Of primary interest are City Council Meetings, County Commissioner Meetings, and School Board meetings. If you have an interest any other governmental group, we would be happy to work with you on that goal.
In this COVID era, many governmental meetings are currently held online, so this volunteer role can be done fully from home. Look behind the scenes to learn how your government works!
Responsibilities:
- Attend assigned meetings.
- Awareness of LWV positions and areas of concern.
- Complete observer report form.
- Report to the Board.
- Advise the Board of opportunities for action based on League Positions.
- Assist with networking.
Preparation:
- Wear a League volunteer badge.
- If possible, arrange to be on the email list of the council, board or commission that you are observing.
- Review the report form to become familiar with the information requested.
- Familiarize yourself with the function of the body you are observing and the names and titles of the members.
- Listen, observe and take notes.
- Be discreet and courteous.
- Know the reason you are there so it can be communicated if you are asked.
- Familiarize yourself with open government laws.
- Know that observers may communicate with public officials if questions arise about policies and procedures.
- Observers may make recommendations for better practices.
Questions to Consider:
- Any red flags regarding procedures, accountability or transparency?
- Was the meeting announced in advance?
- Was the agenda followed or amended?
- Were decisions reached without discussion?
- Was the venue accessible to the public?
- Did any items relate to League positions or priorities?
Resources:
Observing Your Government in Action
View Reports:
LWVGC Observer Reports
If you are interested in becoming an Observer, or would like more information about our Observer Corps, please email: President@lwvgreatercleveland.org