Ensuring Open Governance in Rockville

As residents of Rockville, we take pride in our city’s vibrant community, exceptional services, and the transparent governance that supports our daily lives. However, a recent incident has raised concerns about the adherence to the Maryland Open Meetings Act, a vital law that ensures our local government operates openly and honestly. On Friday, May 24, 2024 at 10:00 am, the Rockville Mayor and Council appointed Barack Matite as Acting City Manager without providing adequate public notice, highlighting a significant breach of the principles of transparency and open governance.

What Happened?

On May 24, 2024, the Rockville Mayor and Council held a meeting that was not only unusual in its timing but also in its proceedings. Typically, the City Council meets on Monday nights, a schedule that allows residents to plan their attendance and participation. However, this meeting took place on a Friday morning, an unexpected and inconvenient time for many. The agenda initially posted on May 23, 2024, listed only one item: the Moderately Priced Dwelling Unit Rental Program Agreement for phase one of the Twinbrook Quarter development.

At the start of the meeting, Mayor Monique Ashton announced an additional agenda item—a resolution to appoint the Deputy City Manager, Barack Matite, as Acting City Manager, effective immediately. This resolution was introduced without prior notice to the public, preventing residents from being informed and prepared to discuss or contest the appointment. To further complicate matters, the revised agenda that included this crucial item was posted at 10:24 am, after the meeting had already begun.

Why It Matters

The Maryland Open Meetings Act exists to ensure that government decisions are made transparently and with public involvement. When decisions are made without adequate notice or opportunity for public input, it undermines trust in our local government and its commitment to representing our interests. The appointment of a new Acting City Manager is a significant decision that impacts the leadership and direction of our city. Residents have a right to be informed and involved in such important matters.

The Violations

Several key violations of the Open Meetings Act occurred during the May 24th meeting:

1. Lack of Adequate Public Notice: The resolution to appoint the Acting City Manager was not listed on the agenda posted the day before the meeting, depriving residents of the opportunity to prepare and participate.
2. Unusual Meeting Time: The meeting was held on a Friday morning, diverging from the regular Monday night schedule, which likely limited public attendance and participation.
3. Delayed Posting of Revised Agenda: The revised agenda was posted after the meeting had started, further preventing residents from being aware of the new agenda item in a timely manner.

Moving Forward

Transparency and accountability are the cornerstones of good governance. To maintain public trust, it is essential that the City of Rockville adheres to the principles outlined in the Maryland Open Meetings Act. As residents, we must hold our local government accountable and demand adherence to these principles to ensure that our voices are heard and our interests are represented.

I urge all Rockville residents to stay informed and involved in our local government. Attend meetings, ask questions, and demand transparency. By doing so, we can help ensure that Rockville remains a city we are proud to call home, governed by the principles of openness and integrity.

Together, let’s advocate for a government that values our participation and upholds the trust we place in it. Transparency is not just a legal requirement—it’s a promise to the community that must be honored.