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City staff clarify public-comment rules and First Amendment limits after recent disruptions
Summary
City Manager John Holman and City Attorney Kelly Concrete outlined rules for public comment at Spokane Valley council meetings, distinguishing protected speech from disruptive conduct that may be curtailed and explaining that personal attacks are discouraged but often protected unless they disrupt the meeting or are unrelated to city business.
City Manager John Holman and City Attorney Kelly Concrete addressed council and the public before the general public comment period to clarify the city's governance manual and legal limits on restricting speech at council meetings.
Holman said the general public comment period is for matters related to city business and that members of the public may comment once per meeting; he also said the period is not intended for extended dialogue and that staff follow up by phone or email when speakers request responses. Holman emphasized that demonstrations, applause and audience outbursts that disrupt council business are not allowed and that the mayor may end a speaker's time for violation of procedures; persistent violations can result in losing the privilege to speak…
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