Bangor resident criticizes city council's cut to public comment time

The Bangor City Council meeting on July 14, 2025, opened with a public comment period, allowing residents to voice concerns about city business not on the agenda. This segment, however, has become a focal point of contention due to recent changes in its structure.

Scott Party, a Bangor resident, raised significant concerns regarding the council's decision to reduce the public comment time from one hour to just 15 minutes at the beginning of meetings. He argued that this change, intended to prioritize comments on agenda items, has had the unintended consequence of stifling public engagement. Party emphasized that while the council aimed to streamline discussions, the reality is that residents often wish to address broader issues affecting their lives, which are not always on the agenda.

The reduction in public comment time has reportedly discouraged participation, as residents are less inclined to attend meetings where their ability to speak is limited. Party pointed out that many citizens feel their input is unwelcome, particularly when they must wait until the end of lengthy meetings to voice their concerns. This shift has raised alarms about transparency, especially since much city business occurs in executive sessions, leaving the public unaware of critical decisions.

The implications of these changes are significant. By limiting public comment, the council risks alienating constituents and undermining the principles of open government. Party's remarks highlight a growing frustration among residents who seek to hold their elected officials accountable and engage in meaningful dialogue about the issues that matter most to them.

As the meeting progressed, the council members listened to these concerns without immediate response, adhering to their policy of allowing public comments to be heard without debate. The ongoing discussions about public engagement and transparency will likely continue to shape future council meetings and community relations in Bangor.