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Byron council adopts formal civility pledge for officials and public
Summary
The Byron Mayor and Council unanimously adopted a resolution committing elected officials to standards of civility and asking the public to behave respectfully at meetings, emphasizing open, honest communication and a rejection of violence and incivility.
The City of Byron Mayor and Council unanimously adopted a resolution on Feb. 13, 2023, pledging to practice and promote civility in the conduct of municipal business and to encourage respectful public participation.
The resolution, adopted by motion of Council Member Michael Chumbley and seconded by Alan Dorsey, affirms the council’s support for open debate while asking members to model ‘‘open, free and vigorous debate’’ conducted with ‘‘the highest standards of civility, honesty and mutual respect.’’ It also states the council’s commitment to ‘‘show courtesy by treating all colleagues, staff and members of the public in a professional and respectful manner’’ and declares opposition to violence and incivility in all forms.
Council members said the pledge is intended to promote better public policy through thoughtful debate and to set a positive example for residents who attend meetings or participate online. The resolution asks elected officials to ‘‘remember that they represent not only themselves, but the constituents of their district and city,’’ and it encourages the public to be civil when addressing matters before the council.
The adoption was unanimous. The council did not attach enforcement measures to the resolution; it serves as a public statement of expectations for conduct at city meetings.
