Page 149 - BrownActHandbook

[SAMPLE CLOSED SESSION NOTICE TO EMPLOYEE
PURSUANT TO GOVERNMENT CODE SECTION 54957]

NOTICE

[Date]

Mr. Joe Worker
554 South Maple
Anytown, California 93700

Dear Mr. Worker:

You are hereby notified that the Anytown City Council will, on May 1, 20__, at 7:00
p.m., meet in closed session to hear specific complaints brought against you regarding
[specify nature of complaint or issue]. However, pursuant to Government Code section
54957, you have the right to have such complaints heard in open public session of the
Council rather than in a session closed to the public. You may have the complaints heard
in open session by making such request in writing delivered to the undersigned at the
address shown on this letterhead at any time before May 1, 20__.

A copy of the complaints against you as made by Mr. Citizen is attached to this notice.

Yours truly,

________________________
[Title]

Enclosures

[Notes on use of sample: There may or may not be written complaints or charges to
attach to the notice. The employee’s right to an open meeting applies to both formal and
informal charges or complaints whether filed by the agency itself or by a private party.
The requirement also applies to closed session hearings before civil service and personnel
commissions. The notice must be delivered to the employee personally or by mail at
least 24 hours before the time for holding the session, otherwise any disciplinary action
taken is null and void. (Government Code section 54957.)]

[Because of the importance of documenting timely service, a proof of service form
should be signed by the person mailing or personally serving the employee.]

2025 Brown Act Handbook LozanoSmith.com 137