Commission restores public comment for non‑agenda items after weeks of debate

The Texas City Commission voted July 1 to restore public comment on items not listed on the agenda, approving ordinance 2026-20 after extended public testimony and a council discussion about legal limits and decorum.

The vote followed multiple public speakers who urged reinstating the practice. "Open, accessible government is fundamental to the healthy community," said Tim Culp, president and CEO of the Texas City Lamar Chamber of Commerce, urging the commission to let residents address elected officials at regular meetings. Longtime residents and business owners also urged the change: Barbara Ozan White said public comment gives residents a platform to raise everyday concerns, and Jose Boyce said he researched past agendas and could not find ordinances authorizing previous restrictions.

Former mayor Dick Johnson told the commission he supported following the Texas Open Meetings Act, which mandates public participation on agenda items, and cautioned against allowing disruptions. "When you open up public comment to any agenda item, sometimes you have meetings that can last eight to ten hours," he said, urging the body to balance access with order.

Commissioners spent substantial time debating rules of decorum and how far the city may lawfully restrict speech. Several members said they favor restoring the public's right to speak but want residents to remain civil at the podium. "I support residents having a voice," Commissioner Brian Gets said, "but I will not support disrespect or personal attacks on staff."

The motion to adopt the version of the rules proposed by Commissioner Chris Sharp passed by voice vote. The ordinance amends the commission's rules of procedure to reinstate a public comment period for non‑agenda items and retains the mayor's authority to warn and remove disruptive speakers.

Officials said staff will finalize posting and procedural details for speakers and that existing time limits (three minutes per speaker, as stated in the proposed rules) will remain in effect. The commission did not change penalties set by the courts for unlawful conduct at public meetings; the mayor reiterated that he may warn and, if necessary, have disruptive individuals removed.

The vote returns to the public a direct channel to raise concerns during commission meetings, while leaving the presiding officer responsibility to maintain order. The commission did not announce a timetable for procedural updates beyond what was approved July 1.