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Public commenters accuse two supervisors of walking out during LGBTQ proclamation
Summary
During public comment speakers accused Supervisors Pete Vanderpool and Supervisor Townsen of walking out during a proclamation recognizing LGBTQ groups, calling the action disrespectful and a political stunt; two commenters urged the board to follow its own proclamation guidelines and to respond to constituents.
During the public comment period at the June 16 Tulare County Board of Supervisors meeting, multiple residents criticized two supervisors for leaving the chamber during a proclamation recognizing LGBTQ organizations.
Jim Reeves told the board he was "deeply disturbed" that supervisors Vanderpool and Townsen walked out during the presentation and said the action was not respectful. "Walking out of the room during a presentation to LGBT organizations isn't respect. It's a political stunt," Reeves said, urging the board to follow its own guidelines that describe proclamations as strictly honorary.
Caitlyn Rowan of Visalia also addressed the supervisors, criticizing Vanderpool for statements she said reflected opposition to activism and telling Townsen she was disappointed in his conduct and lack of constituent responsiveness. "Have you ever read the Constitution?" Rowan asked during her remarks, arguing that activism and protest have driven major civil‑rights advances.
Board members who remained during the proclamation received praise from speakers; the board did not take disciplinary action or reverse the proclamation during the meeting. Public comment rules noted matters presented under this item could not be discussed or acted on that evening.
