Chautauqua County Committee postpones proposed limits on public comment after widespread opposition

Chautauqua County’s Administrative Services Committee voted to postpone indefinitely a proposed change to the legislature’s rules that would narrow topics allowed during public comment, after residents and several legislators warned the amendment risked curbing free speech and inviting arbitrary enforcement.

Tom Nelson, a District 13 legislator who spoke during the privilege-of-the-floor period, said the amendment ‘‘unnecessarily restricts free speech’’ and would invite ‘‘content‑based and viewpoint‑based exclusions’’ by limiting comments to subjects the legislature deems within its authority. Nelson warned that vague terms such as ‘‘relevant to the powers and duties or responsibilities of the county legislature’’ would give presiding officers broad discretion to cut off speakers, he said.

Vince DeJoy, representing Legislative District 9, told the committee that open public comment ‘‘upholds core democratic principles’’ and cautioned that restrictions can create a perception officials only want to hear supportive viewpoints. Both speakers urged the committee to reject the proposal.

Chairman Pierre Shagnon told the committee that, following public feedback and comparisons with other New York counties, ‘‘enough comments and concerns have been raised regarding freedom of speech’’ to justify killing the resolution. An unnamed legislator moved to postpone the measure indefinitely; the motion was seconded and carried by voice vote.

The committee’s postponement leaves the proposed rule change in limbo; no new date for reconsideration was set at the meeting. Committee members said the decision responds to constitutional risk and public concern rather than questions of procedure.