Commission amends public-comment policy to require agenda-item comments during item discussion

County staff introduced an amendment to the county's public-comment policy intended to distinguish general public comments from comments on specific agenda items. The amendment clarifies that speakers addressing an agenda item should be recognized while that item is under consideration rather than waiting for the end-of-meeting general comment period.

A staff speaker explained the purpose: "The intent of the memo and the amendment ... is just simply to reflect that if somebody is here to make a comment on an agenda item that we would find it proper to recognize them during that agenda item," and presented suggested language to require that individuals submit written requests to the county administration office before the meeting.

The county state's attorney, Wilson, said the statute provides flexibility on public-comment procedures and described the proposed changes as reasonable. "The thing with this statute is it gives us lots of flexibility including who we contact to do public comments. That that sounds reasonable," Wilson said. Commissioners discussed where written submissions should be sent and agreed to replace references to the commission assistant or public information director with "county administration office" for consistency.

A motion to approve the amended language as presented was made and seconded; the commission approved the amendment by roll call. Commissioners also noted a public suggestion to consider lengthening individual comment time from three to five minutes, but took no action on that suggestion during the meeting.

The amended policy will be reflected in the county's meeting procedures and posted materials going forward.