Dickinson commission tables proposed public‑comment rules after lengthy debate

The Dickinson City Commission voted unanimously on a motion March 11 to table a proposed policy that would have set new rules for the meeting public‑comment period, including advance sign‑up requirements, a five‑minute time limit per speaker and a prohibition on audio‑visual materials during comment.

City Administrator Dossinger presented the draft rules and said the city wants public input while preserving “the integrity and professionalism of the City Of Dickinson’s commission meetings.” He told commissioners the proposal would require anyone who wishes to speak during the public‑comment period to sign up no later than 12 p.m. the day before the meeting, limit comments to five minutes (with a commissioner able to request an extension), restrict comments to matters within the scope of municipal business, and bar presentations and videos during the comment period.

The proposal included additional requirements: no late or in‑person signups immediately before or during the meeting, one comment per individual per meeting, and language that comments “should not be defamatory, abusive, harassing, or unlawful.” Dossinger also noted the city attorney’s review and told the…