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Mesa to randomize public-comment speakers, selection begins June 1
Summary
The Mesa City Council announced on May 18 it will start an electronic, randomized selection process for "items from citizens present" beginning June 1; up to three speakers per meeting will be chosen by lottery and must sign up via a posted QR code or staff assistance before the meeting start.
The Mesa City Council announced a change to how it selects public-comment speakers, saying the city will begin using an electronic randomized selection process for "items from citizens present" starting June 1. Mayor Freeman said the change is intended to make participation fairer and more accessible to residents regardless of arrival time.
Under the new procedure, up to three residents will be selected to speak at each meeting; speaker requests must be submitted via the posted kiosk QR code in the lobby or with staff assistance before the meeting begins. The city clerk will read aloud the names of the selected speakers at the start of the meeting. The council kept the existing three-minute time limit and meeting decorum rules in place.
Mayor Freeman said the process is intended to remove advantages based on arrival time and make public participation more equitable. He encouraged anyone with questions to contact the city clerk's office for assistance with the new system.
The study session adjourned following the announcement.
