Residents urge three-reading ordinance process, candidate forums and study of undergrounding power lines during Mount Pleasant public comment

At the Feb. 11 Mount Pleasant council meeting multiple residents used the public-comment period to raise issues including ordinance amendment procedures, candidate forums and undergrounding power lines.

Mike Van Horn, who said he lives on Ironbridge Drive, urged moving to a three-reading structure if the council intends to allow amendments at first reading; he said a third reading would give the public a clearer chance to respond to final language. Van Horn also asked the town to improve streamed meeting audio so remote listeners can hear all speakers clearly.

Michael Winter of Indian Street likewise urged caution about permitting amendments at first reading and proposed a three-reading format: “The first reading would remain unchanged. No amendments, just an introduction of the issue… Then at the second reading, council could introduce amendments after thoughtful consideration with the final unmodified vote, taking place at the third reading,” Winter said.

Other commenters advocated for town efforts on infrastructure and community engagement. David Quick said council should continue investigating undergrounding power lines in rights-of-way to protect the town’s tree canopy and scenic roadways, arguing the long-term benefit to the town’s character justified study of costs and approaches; he also thanked staff for accommodating a recent livestreamed event.

During the meeting planning and election items were also on the agenda, and speakers asked that the town host candidate forums ahead of upcoming elections so residents have opportunities to meet candidates in person. Council did not take action during the public-comment period; staff noted the feedback would be considered in committee work and future agenda planning.