A proposed ban on communication devices during confidential Stockton City Council meetings is moving forward for a council vote, following a recommendation by the Legislation and Environmental Committee. The proposal comes in response to concerns about an illegal leak last year during a closed session.
The ban, which would require councilmembers to leave phones, smartwatches, and other electronic devices outside the room during discussions deemed confidential under the Brown Act, was urged by a San Joaquin County Grand Jury. The recommendation followed an incident in March 2023, when details from a closed session review of City Manager Harry Black's performance were leaked, leading to alleged harassment of a councilmember by the 209 Times.
"I would like to be a little more stern on the cell phone use for closed sessions,” said District 6 Councilmember Kimberly Warmsley during the committee discussion on Wednesday.
The Grand Jury's report criticized the 209 Times for allegedly undermining the local democratic process by spreading misleading information to Stockton residents. In light of these concerns, the committee's three members—District 3 Councilmember Michael Blower, District 4 Councilmember Susan Lenz, and Warmsley—unanimously agreed that the device ban should be strict, requiring all devices to be left outside the room entirely, rather than merely turned off.
The proposed ban is expected to appear on the City Council’s agenda soon, according to Interim City Clerk Katherine Roland.
In addition to the device ban, the committee proposed adding a pledge to maintain the confidentiality of closed sessions to the council's creed, reinforcing state law. They also recommended extending the council’s Code of Conduct to include appointed commissioners, and proposed exceptions to a ban on cell phone use during open meetings, allowing use only during family or business emergencies.
As the proposal heads to the full council for review, Stockton’s leaders are taking steps to safeguard the integrity of their closed sessions and prevent future breaches of confidentiality.