Shouldn't this group try to set an example of complying with ICANN Bylaws?

The Bylaws require that "ICANN and its constituent bodies shall operate to 
the maximum extent feasible in an open and transparent manner".

The *only* criteria is whether transparency is "feasible". Whether you (or 
anyone else) thinks it would be advantageous or convenient or result in 
better decisions to hold a closed meeting is irrelevant. The underlying 
assumption that led to this rule, presumably, was that better decisions 
would be made in the open.  But whatever the reasons, that's currently the 
rule.  If you don't like it, propose a change in the Bylaws.

In the meantime, if you want to be a "constituent body" of ICANN, set an 
example to all the other ICANN bodies that flout the Bylaws by holding 
secret meetings: Start operating in a fishbowl, as the Bylaws require.

Best regards,

Edward Hasbrouck
http://hasbrouck.org/icann