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Board debates public-comment rules; motion to allow second 3-minute opportunity fails, board drops strict agenda-only requirement
Summary
The Richland County Board debated and amended its public-comment rules in July, rejecting a proposal to give each speaker two nonconsecutive three-minute turns while approving language to allow comments that are reasonably related to county business rather than strictly tied to agenda items.
Supervisors spent an extended portion of the July meeting discussing changes to the county board’s public-comment rules, including whether individuals should be allowed a second, nonconsecutive three-minute speaking turn and whether comments must be strictly germane to a listed agenda item.
Supervisor Randall (transcript: "Randall") originally proposed allowing a second three-minute, nonconsecutive opportunity as an accommodation for people who become emotional or lose their place during public speaking. Supporters said it would serve as a ‘‘safety valve’’ for speakers with anxiety or cognitive differences. Opponents raised concerns about scope and about maintaining focus on topics the board can act on.
A motion to amend the rules to permit two, nonconsecutive three-minute opportunities for an individual was moved and seconded and defeated on a roll-call vote. The transcript records a roll-call and the chair declared the amendment defeated.
The board then considered whether public comments must be limited strictly to items on the meeting agenda. After discussion and a second motion, the board approved an amendment to the rules clarifying that public comments need not be tied to a specific agenda item but should be germane to the business of Richland County (language proposed: "All comments must be germane to an item on the meeting agenda or reasonably related to the business of Richland County"). That amendment was adopted by voice vote.
Speakers emphasized accessibility: Supervisor Wendell noted ADA obligations to provide accommodations when individuals contact the county in advance; others urged discretion by the chair to extend time when someone is visibly struggling. Public-comment procedures (a sign-up form and provision of name/address) will remain available; the board agreed to add ADA accommodation language to agendas and the public-comment form.
Ending: The board retained the three-minute standard but clarified that comments may address matters reasonably related to county business and affirmed existing ADA accommodation obligations; a separate proposal to allow two nonconsecutive three-minute turns failed.
