Clawson adopts attendance ordinance defining unexcused absences

The Clawson Town Council voted to adopt a new attendance ordinance setting standards for excused and unexcused absences and describing consequences for repeated unexcused absences.

A council member introduced the ordinance text under discussion, noting the draft treats certain events as unexcused (Section 4 referenced) and that other jurisdictions allow payroll docking or removal after repeated absences. "Section 4 shall be considered an unexcused absence," a council member said while explaining the draft language. The motion to accept the new attendance ordinance was moved and seconded and the council voted in favor.

Members debated how strict to be, with discussion of illness, family emergencies and other acceptable excuses; one councilor suggested clarifying which excuses would be allowable. The chair asked whether a copy should be provided to members and staff agreed to circulate the final text.

Why it matters: local ordinances that govern elected officials' attendance determine oversight and operational continuity for council responsibilities. The adopted ordinance provides a written standard for when absences count as unexcused and potential consequences for repeated nonattendance.

The council adopted the ordinance by voice vote and agreed to circulate the final document to members for reference.