Post Independent (Glenwood Springs): Public involvement in government is like an antiseptic. It might sting sometimes, but it makes for a healthier and cleaner outcome in the long run.

Take Glenwood City Council’s May 14 “executive session” for example. In the now released recording, one can hear a conversation that wanders far and wide and at times takes turns toward the personal — as some residents told councilors at their meeting Thursday. During the course of 45 minutes, councilors and city staff discuss a wide range of topics centered on enforcement of public health orders in place to mitigate the spread of COVID-19.

What was described as a “minor COVID update” meandered through perceived disagreements with county commissioners, one councilor randomly asking about possibly suing the Garfield County Sheriff, debating to request the Colorado State Patrol enforce health orders locally and more.

In short, nothing was minor about that May 14 conversation — and it’s just a recent and local example of when elected boards make the mistake of seeking privacy for “uncomfortable conversations.” This is an all-too-common mistake on legal and ethical fronts.

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