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Board adds in-person-only rule for public comment
Summary
In a separate amendment, the board inserted language making public participation "in person only" for speakers, while preserving remote viewing via livestream; members said the change safeguards meeting flow.
During debate on the public participation bylaw, board members voted to insert an explicit statement that public participation shall be "permitted as indicated on the order of business and in person only." The chair explained the insertion was to make existing practice clear.
Board members acknowledged the district will continue to allow remote attendance for viewing (livestream) but said that remote viewing should not equate to remote speaking. A policy committee member emphasized accessibility concerns while supporting in-person speaking where feasible, and members agreed the language should be explicit in the bylaw.
The amendment was moved, seconded and approved by roll call. Supporters said the explicit in-person rule helps preserve orderly meetings while still allowing community members to watch remotely.
