Board adopts public‑comment policy allowing slides and still images; video submissions limited to records requests

The Wake Forest Board of Commissioners adopted a revised public‑comment policy after a review earlier in October. The policy permits speakers to use electronic materials during their three-minute public comments but limits acceptable materials to still photos or slides of text; the policy explicitly excludes playing videos during the meeting.

Town attorney/staff explained that materials submitted for public comment become part of the public record. Staff told commissioners that submitted videos will be retained as part of the record and can be obtained via a public records request; the board will not play videos during the meeting for technical or control reasons. The policy continues to allow electronic submissions for agenda and public comment materials but sets a cutoff for submission processing so staff may screen files in advance.

Commissioners clarified that the one-hour total public-comment cap in the draft is discretionary after the first hour and that the policy applies to public comment only (not proclamations or staff presentations). Several speakers, including Abby Black and other members of the public, had urged continued acceptance of electronic materials in some form; the board adopted the policy unanimously.

The board also clarified that still-image slides and links can be used to point the public to submitted materials; staff noted that submitted files are public records and can be requested for review.

The motion to adopt the public comment policy passed unanimously.