Federal Way shortens public‑comment slots to 90 seconds (3 minutes per group) ahead of special meeting

At the start of a Feb. 10 special council meeting, the Federal Way City Council approved a change to public‑comment timing to manage a high number of sign-ups. The clerk reported 42 in‑person and eight Zoom commenters — about 50 total — and the council debated options for shortening the standard three minutes per speaker.

Councilmember Hamilton moved to shorten the time, councilmembers negotiated a compromise and the clerk summarized the motion ultimately on the floor: “to limit public comment to 90 seconds per person or 3 minutes per group of 5.” The motion passed unanimously.

Council members who argued for a shorter limit said it would allow more people to be heard during a meeting expected to generate extended public comment. Others urged flexibility for groups that planned to speak together. The rule was applied at the meeting, and the council proceeded to hear widely divergent public testimony on the agenda item.

The time‑limit change was procedural and applies to future meetings unless the council amends rules again; the clerk recorded the motion and the mayor moved on to the substantive agenda items.