Denton City Council enacts new rules for public speaking and decorum

The Denton City Council has reinforced its commitment to maintaining order and decorum during public meetings by adopting a comprehensive set of rules of procedure. These guidelines, which apply to both council members and the public, aim to ensure a respectful and organized environment for discussions.

During the meeting, it was emphasized that speakers will have a total of four minutes to present their scheduled reports and an additional four minutes for open mic sessions. A bell will signal the end of their speaking time, and if necessary, the mayor has the authority to remove speakers who do not comply with the time limits.

The council clarified that while they may listen to open mic reports, they cannot engage in discussions or make decisions on these unscheduled items due to the Texas Open Meetings Act. This means that any topics raised during open mic sessions may only be placed on future agendas for further consideration.

The council also reminded attendees to direct their remarks to the council as a whole and to avoid any abusive or inappropriate language. Violations of these rules could result in immediate removal from the chamber.

These procedural updates are designed to enhance the effectiveness of council meetings and ensure that all voices can be heard in a respectful manner. As Denton continues to grow, these measures will help facilitate constructive dialogue between the council and the community.