3. When and how does notice of meetings have to be provided?
- When does a group subject to the KOMA have to provide notice?
Notice of meetings must be provided to those requesting notice. There is no KOMA duty to provide notice unless it has been requested.
- How do I request notice of meetings subject to the KOMA?
All that has to be done is to make a request for notice of meetings; all regular and/or special meetings. The KOMA does not require that requests for notice be in writing. Oral requests are valid. However, because it often becomes harder to prove that such requests were made, we urge those who want to request such notice to put their requests in writing and keep a copy.
- If I am interested in meetings on a specific topic, does the KOMA require that the public body notify me when that topic will be discussed?
Not under the KOMA. The KOMA only requires that public bodies provide the time, place and date when it holds meetings. It does not require that a public body decide, ahead of time, if a specific topic will be discussed and then provide interested persons with notice of that decision.
- If I have requested notice from a group subject to the KOMA, how and when should that notice be given to me?
Notice must be made or attempted to be made to each individual person/entity requesting notice. A one time notice of regular meetings times/dates/places is sufficient unless there is a meeting (or meetings) held at another or different time/date/place; then additional notice is required.
- Does notice of a meeting subject to the KOMA have to be given in writing?
No. Notice may be legally given verbally. However, we recommend it be in writing for evidentiary purposes.
- Is the KOMA violated if the public body does not post notice or publish it in the paper?
No. The KOMA does not require notification through these methods.
- How long does a public body have to continue giving notice of meetings, once it's been requested?
Notice requests may be allowed to expire once a year, but prior to discontinuing providing notice, the public body must let those persons know that their request is expiring so that it can be renewed if they'd like to continue getting notice.
- Does a past practice of providing notice create a duty to continue providing notice?
No. Notice is only required under the KOMA if it has been requested.