Panel allows remote swearing; rebuttal witness sworn remotely after objections

Respondent's counsel objected to remote swearing of the rebuttal witness, arguing the city's adopted procedures and Texas law did not permit remote swearing. The assistant city attorney reviewed the rules and advised the panel she did not find a prohibition. The presiding officer called for a vote and the tribunal overruled objections and allowed the remote oath.

After the ruling, Rebecca (the meeting notary) administered the oath remotely; the witness confirmed he could hear and be heard and then gave testimony by video link. Counsel later resumed examinations and cross‑examinations under standard evidentiary objections recorded on the record.