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Farmers Branch mayor previews proposed public‑comment rules to curb disruptive remarks
Summary
Mayor read a staff‑draft resolution (Resolution 2025‑SH036) proposing rules of procedure and decorum for public comment, citing recent disruptive and discriminatory remarks; the council said the rules were drafted with the city attorney to comply with state and federal law and would apply to future council meetings if adopted.
The presiding officer read a staff‑prepared statement on Feb. 18 introducing Resolution 2025‑SH036, which would adopt rules of procedure and decorum for public comment at Farmers Branch City Council meetings.
The mayor said the rules were prompted by “disruptive and unacceptable behavior, including making discriminatory and personally offensive remarks about individuals and groups,” and framed the rules as a way to preserve limited council meeting time for orderly conduct. “These city council meetings are a limited format focused on conducting city business, including public observation and respectful discourse on matters important to our community,” the mayor said. The statement added that staff worked with the city attorney to prepare the rules and to ensure compliance with state and federal law.
Why it matters: The proposed rules would change how the council handles public comment if council adopts the resolution. The mayor emphasized that the rules would apply to all future council meetings and that residents may continue to contact the city through other channels, including in person, online and via the FBTX mobile app.
Discussion vs. action: The mayor presented the item to start discussion; council did not adopt the resolution during the study session. Council moved on to other consent‑agenda and study items after the statement.
Next steps: The resolution will remain on the consent agenda for council consideration at a future public meeting; the city attorney was cited as having helped prepare the draft.
