This webinar will focus on typical pitfalls that can befall Authority management and board operations and how to avoid them. The presentation will include a review of the Pennsylvania Right to Know Law (“RTKL”), the Pennsylvania Sunshine Act and recent changes to the same as well as court decisions impacting how each are administered by the Authority. We’ll cover meeting notices, agendas and public disclosure as well as pitfalls with records management and handling of RTKL requests. We’ll discuss what’s appropriate in executive sessions and how to maintain confidentiality to protect those communications. We’ll also delve into social media platforms and use of those platforms by public entities. Lastly, we’ll talk about procurement procedures and handling public requests for bid information.

Learning Objectives

• Identify common governance and operational pitfalls facing Pennsylvania municipal authorities and implement practical strategies to reduce legal and compliance risks. 

• Apply the requirements of the Pennsylvania Right-to-Know Law and Sunshine Act, including recent statutory changes and significant court decisions affecting meetings, agendas, public records, and transparency obligations. 

• Evaluate best practices for records management, responding to Right-to-Know requests, and preserving confidentiality during executive sessions while maintaining compliance with applicable laws. 

• Assess the legal and practical considerations associated with the use of social media by public entities and develop policies that promote transparency while minimizing risk. 

• Implement sound procurement and bidding practices, including appropriate handling of bid information requests, to promote fairness, accountability, and legal compliance.

Presenter:
Elizabeth Dupuis
Babst Calland

Morgan Madden
Babst Calland

Cost:  $49