Content-neutral changes aim to address meeting disruptions and promote a more inclusive public process

City Council voted tonight 8-1 to change the procedures surrounding the Open Comment section of its future meetings. The updates are intended to reduce recurring disruptions and support a more inclusive public process. Updates are reflected in the Council Rules of Procedure, Sections II, IV(a), and XVI.

The following changes are now in effect and important for community members who wish to speak during Open Comment on items that are not listed on the meeting agenda:

  • New start time: Regular City Council meetings will begin at 5:30 p.m., unless otherwise noted.
  • Open Comment duration: A total of 45 minutes will be allocated at the beginning of each meeting for Open Comment.
  • Speaker time limit: Each speaker will have up to two minutes.
  • Speaker selection: Twenty individuals will be randomly selected to speak. The council will do its best to allow all 20 speakers their time, but the session is limited to 45 minutes, so if there are delays or disruptions, they may not get through the whole list.
  • Speaking order: The speaker list will reflect the randomized order of those selected. This applies to both in-person and virtual participants.
  • Waitlist priority: If a selected speaker is not able to speak due to time constraints, they will be invited to sign up to speak at the next regular meeting. If they do so, they will be given priority. The remainder of the list will be randomized.
  • Audio-only format: Only audio will be broadcast during the Open Comment period, regardless of whether the individual is testifying in person or virtually.
  • Council response: At the conclusion of the Open Comment period, staff will be permitted to respond first. Following this, each council member may provide up to 30 seconds of response, if desired. Council responses to Open Comment will no longer occur under “Matters from the Mayor and Members of Council.”
  • New start time for official business: The council will adjourn for a brief break before starting the official business in its meetings at 6:30 p.m. There are no changes to public hearing testimony procedures for items that are on the agenda.

These content-neutral changes follow growing concerns about the rise in disruptive behavior during public comment periods. The new format is intended to create a more productive and inclusive space for civic engagement.

Community members are encouraged to review the updated procedures and access the speaker sign-up form.

For questions about City Council meetings or procedures, please contact the City Clerk’s Office by email.

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