HomeMy WebLinkAboutInvocation Agreement TWIN FALLS CITY COUNCIL—INVOCATION RULES AND GUIDELINES
1. There shall be only one invocation per month,and it will be placed on the City Council meeting agenda
that occurs on a Monday.The invocation of each preceding all legislative business,which invocations
should not exceed two (2) minutes.
2. Any person may volunteer to provide an invocation. No remuneration or other compensation shall be
given for providing an invocation.
3. Invocations shall be scheduled on a "first come,first serve" basis.To allow for individuals with different
beliefs to participate, preference shall be given to persons who have not given an invocation in the
previous twelve(12) months.
4. To avoid the appearance of establishing or promoting a certain religion or belief, if a City Council member
or City employee desires to provide an invocation,the agenda shall state the following next to his/her
name: "Mr./Mrs. (Name) is delivering the invocation today in his/her capacity as a private citizen,and not
in his/her official capacity as a City Council member/City employee."
5. Anyone interested in providing an invocation may contact the City Manager's Office to be placed on the
calendar. Individuals wishing to provide the invocation may also call City staff at the Twin Falls City Hall
(208-735-7245) or rlong@tfid.org.
6. An individual's faith shall not preclude his/her ability to give an invocation.The Council serves
constituents of all faiths,expresses no faith preference, and recognizes no faith as superior or inferior to
others.
7. All invocations or other statements shall be positive and uplifting and are not an opportunity to disparage
other people, organizations,or beliefs. No invocation shall be used to lobby or request funding or
support. Should the individual's invocation be considered offensive, he/she will not be able to offer an
invocation again for a period of 2 years.
8. The Mayor will introduce a person by name and preferred title prior to an invocation.
9. Some Council meetings will not have a person scheduled to give an invocation. In such cases,the Mayor,
at his/her discretion, may ask for a moment of silence.
10. No member of the Council, public or City staff present at the Council meeting shall be required or
expected to participate in an invocation.
I have read, understand,and agree to adhere to the rules and guidelines
as described above.
Signed: --- �--,�� O raj' �
Date: G 5 1 / S