What defines a public meeting under COMAR regulations?

A public meeting under COMAR regulations is defined as a session that is open to the public to discuss matters related to regulations. This definition emphasizes transparency and accessibility in the decision-making processes of governmental entities. The primary goal of a public meeting is to ensure that members of the community have the opportunity to participate, voice their opinions, and stay informed about issues that may affect them. This principle is fundamental to fostering public trust and engagement in government activities.

The other options do not align with the intent of public meetings as defined by COMAR. Stakeholder-only gatherings do not permit broader community participation. Private conferences with experts exclude the public, thereby limiting transparency and accountability. Similarly, an online forum without physical attendance lacks the essential characteristic of being specifically designed for public engagement and discussion, making it not strictly a public meeting as outlined in COMAR regulations.