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Rules committee narrows rules for public-comment displays, bans snapping and sets 21x21-inch sign limit
Summary
After debate about security and the First Amendment, the Rules Committee adopted a revised public-comment rule that bars gestural disruptions and allows a single, small poster at the podium if it fits a 21-by-21-inch template; the measure passed 7-0.
The Jacksonville City Council Rules Committee on Jan. 21 approved changes to how members of the public may display signs or otherwise disrupt committee meetings, adopting limits the city attorney’s office and the sheriff’s office said would be easier to enforce.
The committee voted to bar “waving signs” and snapping fingers during meetings and to allow posters only if they fit within a 21-by-21-inch template. The measure passed on a 7-0 voice vote after members amended the initial draft to specify dimensions.
The revision grew out of a broader discussion about a longstanding City Council rule that already says signs may not be displayed in chambers. Mary Stifopoulos, Office of General Counsel, told the committee that the council’s rules currently prohibit display or waving of signs and that the sheriff’s office had advised enforcing that rule as written. “Their position was that the best and most readily enforceable rule is to enforce what’s on the books and not allow signs,” she said during the meeting.
Supporters of the change said a small, clearly defined allowance would let speakers bring demonstrative material to the podium while giving staff a straightforward way to enforce limits. Council Member Michael Boylan moved the amendment to allow a sign that fits the 21-by-21-inch template; the motion carried after discussion about enforcement logistics. “If it fits within the template, then the individual is good to go,” legislative staff said in a demonstration for the committee.
Opponents warned about First Amendment implications and urged consistent enforcement of existing rules instead of new restrictions. Council Member Terrence Freeman said the key problem has been inconsistent enforcement: “If we don’t like what we currently have on it, I would love for someone to explain why they don’t like it and why then we’re looking to change it,” he said. Several members also said they were reluctant to create a complex set of new restrictions that could entangle future councils.
The final order adopted by the committee explicitly prohibits gestures intended to interrupt or intimidate (examples discussed included snapping fingers and waving signs from the audience) and allows a single poster-size display at the podium that must fit a 21-by-21-inch template placed at the speaker’s seat. The committee instructed Legislative Services to supply a template at the chamber entrance to simplify on-site compliance checks.
The committee’s action was procedural for rules language and will be reflected in the Council Rules. The vote was 7 yeas, 0 nays.
