Planning commission rejects bylaws change that would cut public‑comment time

The Hillsborough County City–County Planning Commission voted on Sept. 14 on a proposed bylaws amendment to formalize public‑comment time limits and require a 0.667 majority for adoption. Staff presented the item as a second hearing and reminded commissioners the change would set predictable time allocations for hearings.

Public commenters urged the commission to preserve public‑comment time. Beth White of Keystone Odessa told commissioners she comes to hearings only when an agenda item affects her neighborhood and opposed cutting speakers’ time, saying in‑person testimony matters. Michelle Watley, who experienced connection problems earlier in the meeting, called the measure “egregious,” saying it would reduce residents’ opportunity to be heard while increasing applicant time.

Commissioners debated both sides. Supporters argued that preset limits provide certainty for applicants and the public; opponents said fixed cuts would disproportionately silence residents and favored maintaining flexibility. Commissioner Cardenas moved to adopt the amendment and Commissioner Coogler seconded. A roll‑call vote recorded four yes and four no votes, failing to reach the required 0.667 majority, so the proposal did not pass.