Board announces it will stop live-streaming public comment segments at meetings

Johnston County Public Schools’ board chair announced Tuesday that, on the advice of legal counsel, the district will no longer broadcast the public-comment portion of board meetings. The move affects live streaming only; public comment sessions will continue in person.

Madam Chair Andrews told the audience the decision was made after consultation with legal counsel and emphasized the district’s commitment to hearing community concerns. “There’s no attempt here to prevent transparency,” she said, adding that the district’s superintendent and staff remain available via email and phone.

The chair read a revised public-comment protocol and said two speakers had signed up for that evening’s session; she noted each speaker will have three minutes. The district will not facilitate distribution of materials shared during public comments through the livestream.

District legal counsel advised the board on the change during the meeting. Board members said the move was intended to address legal considerations while preserving public access to the comment period in person and through direct contacts with district staff.

Ending: The board invited speakers to present during the in-person public-comment period and said staff will continue to make channels available for community feedback outside the televised stream.