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Brevard board narrows broadcast of non‑agenda public comments; policy approved unanimously
Summary
The Brevard Public Schools Board approved a revision to its public comment policy (G48 PO0169.1) that stops live broadcasting of non‑agenda public comments while keeping those comments on the record; supporters cited legal limits on airing certain speech, while critics warned the change could reduce public participation.
The Brevard Public Schools Board on March 11 approved a revision to policy G48 PO0169.1 that ends live broadcasting of non‑agenda public comments while preserving the opportunity for the public to speak during board meetings. The vote was unanimous.
Supporters said the change protects students and staff from airing potentially inappropriate or private information over public broadcast media and cited legal guidance. “What we have decided to not do is to allow, over our airwaves, things that we think would be inappropriate to air, which could be student names, staff names, racial slurs, things like that,” said Mister Thomas (board member) during the public hearing discussion. Board members said comments remain part of the public record and attendees can speak in person; the board also noted the workshop and meeting structure was changed so speakers would be heard by the board even if cameras are switched off.
Community members and public commenters urged the board to reconsider, saying moving non‑agenda comment off camera could discourage public participation and reduce transparency. Bernard Bridal, a community member who spoke at the public hearing, warned the board it might “lose a lot of valuable input” if non‑agenda comment is not aired.
The board discussed options for allowing more time for speakers and noted the policy permits speakers to address items during the public hearing portion of meetings. After discussion, the board approved the policy by roll-call vote. Board members said the change does not prevent the board from revising the policy in the future and that staff will continue to accept public input through scheduled meetings and other channels.
Ending
Board members said the change balances the board’s access to public input with a desire to avoid broadcasting content that could endanger student privacy or include abusive language; the policy revision will be enforced immediately and can be revisited if needed.
