Council tables standing-rule and public-comment changes after residents object

The Duluth City Council debated proposed changes to its standing rules and public-comment process at its final 2025 meeting and ultimately tabled both measures after council discussion and repeated public concern.

Vice President Lynn Nephew introduced Resolution 991 (to provide for study sessions and clarify effective dates) and Resolution 995 (to modify public-comment provisions). Nephew said the intent was to organize comments and align practices with other local bodies, maintaining the existing three-minute-per-speaker limit.

Public commenters and several councilors, including Councilor Dirwachter and Councilor Awol, warned the changes could reduce accessibility for residents — for example requiring speakers to remain for lengthy meetings or enabling others to filibuster to prevent comments. Councilor Forsman suggested moving meeting start times earlier (to 5 p.m.) might mitigate access concerns but stopped short of supporting changes tonight.

After debate, Councilor Dirwachter moved to table Resolution 991 and the motion passed; Resolution 995 also was tabled following a roll-call vote. Attorney Loehr said the cover memo language was prepared on behalf of Vice President Nephew and that administrative language resulted from a late change. Several councilors asked for more time and recommended revisiting the items with incoming council members.

No changes to public-comment time limits were enacted at this meeting; proponents said further conversation with staff and new councilors is expected before any final policy change.