Mills County staff propose scripted public‑hearing statement to limit repetitive comments

Matt, speaking during new business, described a plan to standardize how the county conducts public hearings in order to keep meetings running smoothly. He said the chair would read a brief statement when a hearing opens and that the process would follow a defined sequence: applicant testimony, supporters, opponents, rebuttal, then a motion to close the hearing and, after discussion, a roll‑call recommendation.

"This statement really kind of sets the ground rules for how the meeting is going to be conducted," Matt said, arguing the script would help prevent repeat comments and heated exchanges after the public‑comment period ends. He urged board members not to re‑engage the public once a hearing is closed, saying, "we don't want to even ask that one question because the minute you ask one question, you've now opened the door."

The discussion also clarified voting mechanics: general agenda items would be handled by a standard "all in favor" voice vote, while recommendations following public hearings would be taken by roll call so the record is clear. Matt said staff would provide the chair a script and prompt the chair if a step was missed.

Supporters of the procedural change pointed to prior zoning hearings that dragged on because members and attendees reopened debate after the formal public‑comment period. The proposed script also would allow the chair to call repetitious public comments out as repetitive so the meeting can move forward.

No ordinance or formal rule change was adopted during the meeting; participants discussed the proposal and said staff would continue to draft and refine the scripted language before presenting a final recommendation to the body.