HomeMy WebLinkAbout02.17.26 Special Work Session Packet
SPECIAL WORK SESSION AGENDA MEMO
To: Mayor, Councilmembers and City Administrator
From: Lynn Gorski, City Administrator
Department: Administration
Subject: Public Comment Procedures and Meeting Decorum Expectations
Meeting: Special Work Session - Feb 17 2026
INTRODUCTION:
The purpose of this City Council Work Session is to review and discuss the procedures and
expectations governing the public comment portion of regular Council meetings. The
Council has expressed interest in ensuring that public comment remains an accessible,
respectful, and orderly opportunity for community members to address the Council.
This discussion will focus on clarifying expectations for speakers and attendees, evaluating
time limits and clock procedures, and reviewing protocols for Council and Staff, in the
event meeting decorum is disrupted. The goal is to promote transparency, fairness, and
consistency while maintaining a professional and productive meeting environment.
The City Attorney will be present to discuss Constitutional issues and to answer any legal
questions that the City Council may have.
DISCUSSION:
The public comment portion of Council meetings is an important opportunity for residents
to share input, raise concerns, and communicate directly with their elected officials. To
ensure this process remains effective and equitable, the Council will revisit the following
components:
1. Time Limits and Clock Procedures
The Council will review the current time allotment for individual speakers and discuss
whether adjustments are necessary. This includes consideration of:
Standard time per speaker
Use and visibility of the timing device
Procedures when a speaker exceeds the allotted time
The objective is to balance broad public participation with the need to conduct regular
Council business efficiently.
2. Expectations of Speakers
Clear expectations help ensure a respectful and productive environment. The Council will
discuss guidelines related to:
Addressing comments to the Council as a whole
Maintaining respectful and civil language
Avoiding disruptive behavior
These expectations are intended to protect free expression while preserving meeting
order.
3. Expectations of Audience Members
In addition to speakers, the audience plays a role in maintaining decorum. The Council will
review standards related to:
Applause, demonstrations, or vocal interruptions
Signs or displays
General conduct during the meeting
The goal is to ensure all participants can engage without disruption or intimidation.
4. Procedures in the Event of Disruption
To maintain order, the Council will review procedures for addressing disruptions. This
includes:
The role of the Mayor or presiding officer in enforcing decorum
Steps for issuing warnings
Removal procedures, if necessary
The role of Staff and law enforcement in supporting meeting order
Clarifying these procedures in advance helps ensure consistency and the safety of all.
5. Location of Comments within the Agenda
The Council may consider moving the public comment agenda item to a different point in
the meeting to ensure that official City business is conducted in a timely, efficient, and
orderly manner while still preserving opportunities for public input.
ACTION REQUESTED:
Provide direction to Staff regarding any proposed revisions to public comment procedures
and meeting decorum expectations.