Council adopts ordinance adding general public‑comment portion to regular meetings

A presenter (speaker 11) introduced Ordinance 2026‑24 to amend the county council meeting procedures (Title 2.12) by adding a general public comment portion after approval of minutes. The draft states the purpose of public comment is to allow interested members of the public to address matters germane to county government that are not already scheduled for a dedicated public hearing.

Under the proposal the chair would announce conduct rules at the start of the public comment portion, including reasonable time limits, a requirement to submit written materials with copies for council and clerk, and other rules necessary for orderly operation. The ordinance would allow public comment on matters related to county operations or council business that are not already scheduled for a public hearing.

Council debate was divided. Supporters (including speaker 8 and speaker 7) said a standing public‑comment item would make the council more accessible and provide a public forum for concerns. One supporter suggested a rigid structure (15 minutes total, two minutes per person) to keep the item manageable. Opponents (speaker 3) noted that under the Utah Open and Public Meetings Act, council members cannot discuss or respond substantively during public comment, which may make the addition unproductive unless carefully structured.

A motion to suspend rules and approve the amendment for a six‑month trial passed after discussion; at least one member (speaker 4) voted nay. The ordinance will take effect per county process and is subject to reevaluation after the trial period.