Residents oppose proposal to limit public speaking at Crystal River council meetings

During the Citrus County Board of County Commissioners meeting on December 10, 2024, community members expressed strong opposition to a proposed change that would eliminate public speaking at the beginning of meetings. Residents voiced concerns that this change would prioritize the convenience of board members over the needs of the public, who often have limited time to attend meetings due to work commitments.

One resident passionately argued that the proposed change would diminish the opportunity for citizens to voice their opinions and concerns, emphasizing that public input should be prioritized. "You need to look in the mirror and ask yourself, is this the right thing to do?" they urged the commissioners, highlighting the importance of serving the community rather than self-interest.

Another resident, Joe Papp, echoed these sentiments, stressing the necessity of allowing public comments at the start of meetings. He pointed out that many attendees may not have the flexibility to stay until the end of the meeting, making early public input crucial for community engagement.

The meeting also included discussions on other agenda items, such as a public hearing regarding a street vacation request. However, the primary focus remained on the public's right to speak and the implications of changing the meeting format.

As the board considers these changes, the voices of concerned citizens underscore the importance of maintaining open lines of communication between the community and its elected officials. The outcome of this discussion will likely have lasting effects on how residents engage with their local government.