Staff previews updates to Newport Beach legislative platform; council to consider resolution at next meeting

City staff presented proposed updates to the Newport Beach legislative platform during a study session April 14, telling the City Council the document is a framework guiding when the mayor and staff take positions on legislation at the local, state and federal levels.

A staff member identified as Laura described the platform’s two functions: (1) to establish policy positions that guide advocacy and (2) to authorize the mayor to take positions that align with adopted priorities. The platform was last updated in 2023, staff said. The proposed changes range from editorial revisions to two new substantive sections on technology/digital infrastructure/cybersecurity and on communications.

"We wanted to provide the council and the public an opportunity to review these changes before staff returns with a resolution and an updated legislative platform," the presenter said. Staff said the city manager’s office worked with department directors and lobbyists to prepare the draft and that staff will return with a formal resolution at the next council meeting if council signals consensus.

Public comment on the study session included a request from resident Jim Moer that the webpage with letters sent under the platform be better publicized so residents know when the city communicates positions. Council members offered no substantive edits during the session and indicated they would consider staff’s recommendation when the item returns for formal action.