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Commission votes to move regular meetings to 6:30 p.m. in initial test
Summary
The Newport board approved a change to meeting times (first reading) to begin testing a 6:30 p.m. start with the aim of improving public engagement and earlier adjournments.
The Board of Commissioners approved a proposed change to the city’s meeting schedule during a first-reading ordinance on Jan. 13, moving regular meeting start times to 6:30 p.m. as a test to improve public engagement and avoid late-night meetings.
The ordinance (Commissioners Ordinance Number 2) amends sections 30.025(a) and (b) of the Code of Ordinances concerning meeting times. A commissioner explained the rationale, saying later meetings can run to 9:30 or 10 p.m., which reduces attention and participation, and that 6:30 p.m. is being tested to see whether it increases productive discussion while remaining accessible to residents who work.
City officials noted the move is being piloted and could be adjusted; the mayor said the board will monitor participation and could consider shifting back later if needed. The motion to move forward with the ordinance reading was made, seconded and passed on roll call.
Why it matters: changing meeting times might affect public attendance and staff scheduling and is a procedural change in how the city conducts public business.
Next steps: the ordinance passed the first-reading action on Jan. 13 and will return for subsequent readings as required by city code.
