Mohave County board adopts revised rules of order after heated public comment on call to the public

The Mohave County Board of Supervisors approved revisions to its rules of order on March 3 after a lengthy public discussion about where to place the meeting “call to the public.”

Multiple residents and frequent commentators urged the board to keep the call to the public at the start of meetings so working residents can address the board without waiting through a long agenda. Speakers said placing public comment at the end of meetings disadvantages people who cannot stay the entire session and signals the board is deprioritizing resident input. Several speakers also raised concerns about a rule language change describing the meeting room as private property and asked the board to ensure the county does not restrict lawful public speech.

Supporters of the rules revisions told the board the changes were intended to improve decorum and allow the board to conduct orderly business. Supervisor Don Gould said that protest and public gatherings were welcome in outdoor spaces such as the flagpole area but that inside the meeting room speakers must follow decorum rules.

After discussion the board approved the revisions to the rules of order. The vote came amid sharp public testimony from several residents who said the change would limit public participation.

The board did not amend the new rules at the meeting; supervisors said they would continue to hear public concerns about access and may consider additional adjustments in the future.