Rules committee approves new public-comment rules, limits speakers to two minutes

The Knox County Rules and Procedure Committee approved a set of proposed public-comment rules during its April 14 meeting, adopting sign-up and time restrictions intended to broaden participation while keeping meetings efficient.

The chair of the committee said the packet included a redline of the recommended language and read the core provision: "Persons wishing to speak may sign up, by phoning or emailing the city council office," adding that the list of speakers "closes once the meeting is called to order." The chair moved to adopt the rules; Mr. Johnson seconded and the committee approved the change by voice vote.

Mr. Johnson, who led the redline review, told members the draft was copied from a task force that met last year and from rules the audit committee has used. He described key elements adopted: sign-ups may be made by phone, email or in person before the meeting; speakers must provide name, address and the agenda item they intend to address; up to three speakers are allowed on each agenda item; and each speaker is limited to two minutes. Johnson noted the committee can revisit or suspend the rules in the event of an unusually large or contentious item.

Committee members emphasized the practical effect of the changes. One member asked whether the sign-up deadline should be more specific; Johnson said the later provision—closing the list at call to order—addresses that concern. Members who had served on the task force reported the rules had worked in practice, with only occasional meetings having multiple sign-ups.

The committee moved on to a longer review of rule amendments adopted by city council on Sept. 30, 2025.

Next steps: the committee placed several language questions on the agenda for future meetings, and staff will circulate proposed wording changes before the next meeting.