Public Notice: 06-13-2025 Press Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE June 13, 2025

City of Dillingham – Office of the City Manager

Clarification on Mayoral Voting Procedures During Budget Ordinance Introduction

DILLINGHAM, Alaska – At the June 12, 2025, special meeting of the Dillingham City Council, with five members in attendance, legal guidance was presented regarding the Mayor’s authority to vote under specific conditions. You can find the legal memo in the packet. The clarification, requested by the Mayor and provided by the City’s legal counsel, offered interpretation on how a “tie” vote may be understood under state law and municipal code.

Council members have a duty to attend Council meetings and vote. A Council member does not gain voting power by being absent or abstaining. The Mayor can only vote in case of a tie. A tie exists when there are three Council members voting “yes” and three members who do not vote “yes.” Such a rule allows the Mayor to prevent the breakdown of the legislative process and ensures the City complies with mandatory duties like adopting a budget and fixing the mill rate.

Council members are elected to represent the community and are expected to attend all meetings unless excused. Participation and voting are core responsibilities of elected office, ensuring that critical decisions are made through a full and active governing body. Because a motion to rescind passed and four Council members then voted to introduce the budget ordinance, a public hearing on the budget is scheduled for June 19, 2025 at 7:00 p.m. The City encourages people to review the budget and provide comments.

During the meeting, one Council member left the chambers. Additionally, the Cosgrove investigative report was briefly referenced by Council during discussion and included in the June 12 packet. The Cosgrove report describes computer security and conflict of interest issues. The Council will continue reviewing the Cosgrove report and determining what actions are necessary in upcoming meetings. Both matters fall solely within the scope of Council business.

The City Administration remains committed to maintaining essential services and supporting the lawful and timely execution of municipal responsibilities.

Daniel E. Decker Sr., City Manager

Phone: (907) 842-5211

Email: manager@dillinghamak.us