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Lynn Haven commission votes to trial monthly town halls with retained public‑comment rights
Summary
After public input, the commission approved a three‑month trial of monthly Saturday town halls (9–11 a.m.) to allow three‑minute audience interaction while preserving statutorily required public comment for agenda items; the measure passed in roll call.
The Lynn Haven City Commission voted to begin a three‑month trial of monthly town hall meetings, scheduling a Saturday session in the week before the commission’s fourth‑Tuesday meeting where residents would have three minutes to speak and commissioners could interact with them.
Supporters framed the sessions as an “incubator” for citizen concerns and a way to increase dialogue. Commissioner Ward proposed holding the sessions from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m., with advance submission of questions by the close of business the preceding Wednesday so staff can invite subject‑matter experts as needed. The commission clarified the trial would not replace statutorily required public comment on agenda items during regular meetings; those rights remain intact.
Several residents spoke during the public comment period, urging the commission to pick a date that does not conflict with weekly agendas and to ensure town halls enhance, not reduce, access. One resident recommended holding the town hall on the third Saturday to fall between regular meetings; other commenters warned a Saturday time could limit attendance for some workers. Commissioners discussed logistics including IT recording, minutes, whether to have the city attorney attend on an ad‑hoc basis, and staffing needs. The motion calls for the city attorney to be invited on an as‑needed basis and for residents to submit questions by the Wednesday before each town hall.
The motion—moved and seconded on the floor—set a three‑month trial starting in March, with staff directed to advertise the events on social media and other channels. The city manager called the roll; the motion passed by an affirmative roll call vote.
Next steps: staff will set dates, publish instructions for submitting questions by the Wednesday preceding each meeting, and report back to the commission at the conclusion of the trial.
