Committee alters public‑comment rules: removes 15‑minute cap, extends first period to 4 minutes

The Personnel & Administrative Affairs Committee approved two measures changing how members of the public may address aldermen during committee meetings.

Alderman Derek Tebow proposed O‑26‑028 to remove a 15‑minute total cap on public comment during committee meetings; under the change each speaker would retain the standard three‑minute allotment and the public‑comment period would continue while there are speakers. Members discussed concerns about potential abuse and fairness; Alderman Thomas Lopez said he had reservations but would support the change. The committee voted in favor on a roll call (5‑0).

Separately, Alderman Paula Johnson proposed increasing the allotted time for individual speakers in the first public‑comment period. After discussion and negotiation among aldermen the committee amended the proposal to allow four minutes for each speaker in that first period and then voted to recommend final passage as amended (committee vote recorded a majority and the motion carried). Supporters said a single extra minute would help people with speech impediments or those who need more time to explain an agenda item; critics warned longer time limits could encourage harassing comment but accepted the compromise.

Both items now go to the full Board of Aldermen for final consideration.