If you attend enough public government meetings, you will inevitably hear a debate revolving around a particularly pesky piece of legislation: The Brown Act. Originally a 686 word statute that has grown substantially over the years, The Brown Act was enacted in 1953 in response to mounting public concerns over informal, undisclosed meetings held by elected officials. City councils, county boards, and other local government bodies throughout the State were avoiding public scrutiny by holding secret 'workshops' and 'study sessions.' The Brown Act solely applies to California City and county government agencies, boards, and councils. Now, a local official and a concerned citizen have formed a free workshop designed to educate citizens on the complicated language of the statute.

Roseanne Chamberlain, Executive Officer of LAFCO will host the event along with upcountry resident and reporter Debbie Dunn. Chamberlain will present the basic premise behind this often misunderstood legislation. A number of topics pertaining to the act will be covered, including common misconceptions that the State yields its sovereignty and that the people, in delegating authority, give their public servants the right to decide what is good for the public to know. The free workshop will be held today, July 29th, from 7 to 8:30 pm at the Amador County Administration Building, 33 Court Street in Jackson. If you require additional information, please contact Roseanne Chamberlain at 418-9377, or Debbie Dunn at 223-6470.