Harnett commissioners reopen debate over public‑comment time, agree to reconsider rule next meeting

Commissioners reopened a board discussion about the length and conduct rules of the Harnett County Board of Commissioners’ public‑comment period, debating whether to revert the time limit from three minutes to five and whether to enforce existing conduct rules more strictly.

One commissioner, who said she supported five minutes when she first chaired the board, asked the board to reconsider the three‑minute limit and noted rules in the board’s policies that prohibit personal attacks and profanity. She suggested some conduct items in the board policy might be enforced more consistently and proposed adding the reconsideration as an agenda item for the next meeting when all commissioners can vote.

Several commissioners agreed that the public comment period is important but said speakers should limit remarks to matters within the board’s jurisdiction and avoid personal attacks. One commissioner asked whether staff could consider turning off the meeting camera during public comment to reduce the podium’s use as a platform for social‑media followings; another commissioner said that enforcing the existing rules and the chair’s oversight would likely address the problem.

The board reached a consensus to place the item on the next meeting agenda when the absent commissioner (referred to as Mr. Matthews) would be present so the full board could consider restoring a five‑minute limit or other rule changes. A commissioner emphasized the board’s intent to preserve citizens’ right to speak while insisting on civility: “I don't care if we have an hour. I think the citizens need to voice their opinion. ... But you speak to me and you use the correct language. Don't curse me and call me all kind of names.”

Ending: The board did not change the rule immediately. The item was scheduled for fuller discussion and a potential vote at the next meeting when the full board could act.