Spokane council adopts overhaul of public‑comment rules, adds opt‑in “express lane”
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Summary
The Spokane City Council voted to adopt a sweeping amendment changing how and when the public can comment on legislation, including an opt‑in “express lane” for early comment, shortened grouped comment windows for some agenda sections and an effective date of July 9 for testimony timeline changes.
The Spokane City Council on March 2 adopted a rules amendment that restructures the legislative agenda and changes when members of the public can speak on items.
Staff adviser Mr. Bird (Jacoby) told the council the changes would take effect July 9 and would create an opt‑in “express lane” allowing speakers who sign up to give a single three‑minute statement early in the meeting in exchange for foregoing later opportunities to comment on proposed, pending or final items. The amendment also reorders the committee and ledge timelines, publishes committee agendas earlier in the week and creates grouped comment windows for categories such as boards and commissions, reports, contracts and claims.
Supporters said the package gives more ways for people to be heard earlier in the process and makes committee agendas clearer. Council Member Zippone called the “express lane” potentially useful for people who cannot stay for long meetings. Council Member Cathcart unsuccessfully proposed amendments to preserve three minutes for more item categories; that motion failed.
Opponents and some members warned the new rules add complexity for the public and may require clearer signage and outreach so citizens understand multiple comment windows and minute limits. Council Member Dixit asked the administration to track participation metrics for six months to assess whether the new format brings new, more diverse signups.
The council adopted the Wilkerson–Zippone amendment by voice vote. The measure sets July 9 as the effective date for the agenda/testimony timeline changes and keeps a mixture of two‑ and three‑minute windows depending on item type; staff said other procedural changes would remain aligned with existing practices where possible.
Council members said staff will prepare FAQs and public notices to reduce confusion and that the rules will be evaluated during the next rules-review cycle.
The council moved on to other agenda items and will publish the revised agenda format and public‑comment guidance ahead of July implementation.