As Mayor Ringhand passes the torch to the new mayor, and the new alderman are initiated, it is well to review the many positive changes that happened in the past year in the structure of public meetings and the improved dialogue between citizens and their elected leaders.
Citizens had felt frustrated that while they could ask questions, these questions were usually before any staff information was given to them in written form, and hence the citizens really not only did not know what was going on, but could not even ask questions even if they wanted to.
The structure was changed so that after the time of staff discussion, there was a time for public hearing so the public could ask questions. The result has been BETTER and FEWER questions. Most questions that the public had asked were really unnecessary. The ones that are now asked are BETTER. The Observer applauds all who were involved in making these changes.
The original problem of structure of meetings and public input is still present at the Evansville School Board, where there is a time for public presentation----a time before the meeting has commenced and any detailed information is given. This input is more speech making. NOT dialogue.
While the legal statute is given in school handouts as Section 19.84----there is nothing in the statute that says that meetings cannot be structured for moments of question--and indeed, the public policy of the school board does allow the Chair of the School Board to allow public questions during a meeting "at his or her discretion."
In summary---the Observer urges the Board Chair of the Evansville School Board to use discretion to insert a short period of questions--limited to 30 seconds each from anyone who has questions--not a speech--- during a particular section of discussion. To stifle public question during an entire meeting is NOT required by the statute. As the city has shown, controlled periods of public input are no hazard to a quality meeting--in fact it makes them better.
(ed note. If you search yahoo for Wis. stat 19.84 you will see the statutes pertaining to public meetings. )
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As a point of interest, last night I introduced a first reading of an ordinance sponsored by myself and Mr. Cothard, that will allow for public speaking on any topic at the beginning of each meeting. Currently we offer an agenda item for "citizens appearing on items not on the agenda." That seemed backward to me. If this new ordinance gets passed by the new administration, any person wishing to speak on an item coming up or other topic, will be granted 5 minutes at the beginning of the meeting before any votes are taken. This will soften the blow if a public hearing is missed by a concerned citizen for schedule conflicts or notification mishaps.
ReplyDeleteKaren Aikman
Very good idea, I am glad to see you staying involved. I hope that continues we could really use your experience and knowledge. Thanks Karen
ReplyDeleteThank you packerfan, last night was my final Council meeting. I'm not officially done serving until April 18. After that, if I have something to add, I'll need that Public Comment provision just like anyone else. But I appreciate your kind words.
ReplyDeleteKaren Aikman