Portland policy committee tables proposed changes to public-comment policy after questions from counsel and board members
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Summary
Committee tabled edits to BEDH (public participation) to allow staff to produce a cleaned-up version after debate over whether suggested lawyer edits constrain First Amendment protections; members voted unanimously to table and asked staff to follow up with counsel.
The Portland Policy Committee on Nov. 24 voted to table proposed edits to BEDH, the district’s public-participation policy, after committee members said they needed a cleaner draft and clarity about legal margin comments.
Chair Maya Lina said lawyers had provided margin notes and that some members found the changes hard to follow. Board Chair Sarah Lentz flagged recent First Amendment challenges reported in the Portland Press Herald and said the committee should ensure the policy preserves public comment while clarifying enforcement.
Board member Ali Ali expressed strong concern about language the lawyers had suggested restricting pejorative or discriminatory language, saying it could raise First Amendment issues and that she planned to consult the ACLU.
"I'm going to 100% push back on that," Ali said, asking staff and counsel to revisit the wording.
After discussion, Lina moved to table the BEDH edits until the next meeting so staff can circulate a cleaned-up version and follow up with counsel and Dr. Warren. The motion was seconded by board member Ali Ali. By roll call the committee voted unanimously in favor; the motion passed.
Why it matters: The policy governs when and how the public can address the board. Committee members said they want language that preserves public comment rights while setting enforceable conduct expectations. The committee plans to review a cleaned, side-by-side draft at the next meeting.