East Central Reporter

Bureau County held a county board meeting earlier this year at the county courthouse. During this event, residents attempting to enter with cell phones were stopped by court security and informed they could not bring their phones inside. This restriction was reportedly ordered by the Sheriff. The county board was aware or should have been aware that prohibiting individuals from attending a public meeting with their cell phones violates the Open Meetings Act.

Violations of the Open Meetings Act are classified as a Class C Misdemeanor. When a Freedom of Information Act request was submitted to the Sheriff, his assistant claimed to be unaware of the incident.

Regarding the Open Meetings Act violations, if meetings cannot be held in the courthouse while allowing attendees to have cell phones or other recording devices, the county board is legally required to find an alternative location for meetings where such devices are permitted. This requirement is mandatory.

While the Sheriff has discretion over permitting or prohibiting cell phones and recording devices, it is the board's responsibility to ensure meetings occur in a suitable and accessible location. If this necessitates moving meetings out of the courthouse, it must be done.

Attempts were made to contact the Bureau County State’s Attorney for comment, but no response had been received by publication time. Another county board meeting is scheduled for tomorrow night, June 10, 2024.