New odd configuration on the dias places the city manager and city attorney on either side of Jung, Dunlap (both missing at this meeting) and Valencia and Councilmembers Zahra and Charles at the outer edges.

The recent change in seating arrangements at city council meetings has perplexed many residents. The mayor’s decision to place City Attorney Jones and Interim City Manager Manfro directly on the dais, positioned between council members rather than at the outer edges, is a marked departure from past practices.

Since the pandemic, city council members have been seated at a distance from each other on the dais. However, before that, both the city manager and attorney flanked the council. Adding to the bewilderment, the video feed has changed to show only the speakers’ backs, not their faces. This shift diminishes viewers’ personal connection to council discussions and raises questions about transparency. This new setup not only obscures their presence but could potentially hinder public accountability.

Moreover, the absence of screen presentations that typically accompany agenda items limits understanding and engagement for those following the proceedings.

These changes prompt serious consideration: Is the council moving toward a format that, intentionally or not, restricts public access and oversight?

Photo from 2019 shows the city attorney and city manager on the dias during meetings with each sitting at the outer edge flanking the elected council members.