Jason Still questions mayor's authority at city council meeting

The Longview City Council meeting on April 10, 2025, featured significant discussions regarding public comment regulations and the authority of the mayor during council meetings. A resident raised concerns about the city's website updates and the clarity of rules governing public participation. They questioned the legal basis for the mayor's authority to maintain order, citing specific state laws that outline the roles of the mayor and city manager.

The speaker emphasized that the current rules may not align with established legal precedents regarding free speech, particularly in public forums. They warned that continued mismanagement of public comment could lead to potential lawsuits, urging the council to heed past warnings from previous councils.

In addition to the legal discussions, another resident, Karen Jones, shared her positive experiences at the Columbia Theater during a recent celebration. She expressed her fond memories of the venue and highlighted its importance to the community, noting the quality of entertainment and the theater's beautiful restoration.

The meeting underscored ongoing concerns about governance and community engagement, with residents advocating for clearer communication and adherence to legal standards in public discourse. The council's next steps will likely involve reviewing the public comment policies and addressing the concerns raised by community members.