Attendance standards for city committees took center stage at the Middleton Common Council meeting on May 20, 2025, as council members unanimously approved a new ordinance aimed at improving participation and accountability among committee members.

The ordinance establishes clear attendance thresholds, addressing ongoing concerns about quorum and member engagement. Council members expressed optimism that this measure would help staff manage attendance more effectively and ensure that committees function smoothly. One council member noted, “This is a good starting point to make sure that we have people staffing, and then we have quorums.”

However, questions arose regarding the enforcement of these attendance standards. Council members discussed the roles of staff and committee chairs in monitoring attendance and reaching out to members who may be struggling to meet their commitments. The conversation highlighted the importance of understanding individual circumstances, such as maternity and paternity leaves, which can impact attendance.

The council acknowledged that while the new ordinance sets a general standard, it does not limit the discretion of the mayor or council in making decisions about member removal. “This is sort of something to fall back on and as a signal,” one member explained, emphasizing that the ordinance serves as a guideline rather than a strict rule.

The approval of this ordinance marks a significant step towards enhancing the effectiveness of Middleton's city committees, with council members hopeful that it will foster greater participation and commitment among members. As the city moves forward, further discussions will be necessary to refine policies surrounding attendance and member engagement.