Rules of Procedure

It is the purpose of these procedures to encourage public participation in an orderly manner, which gives everyone a reasonable opportunity to present their point of view for consideration by the City Commission. The portion of the agenda titled Recognition of Citizens in the Audience is allocated for individuals who wish to address Commission about an item or issue that is not on the agenda.

A time limit is established to be sure that everyone has an opportunity to speak and that presentations do not become repetitious. While the Commission wishes to give everyone an opportunity to express his or her point of view, it is not necessary or advisable for every member of a group to address the City Commission. In those cases where a group is in attendance, it is suggested that one or two spokespersons be selected. The City Commission attempts to make informed decisions based on all the information available rather than simply on the number of people who offer the same information or arguments.

Rules of Procedure - Public Participation in City Commission Meetings

1. An individual shall not address the City Commission without first having been recognized by the Mayor.
2. Upon being recognized, the individual should state his or her full name (providing accurate spelling), residential address, and the topic to be discussed.
3. Speakers shall be limited to a presentation time of three minutes.
4. An individual will not be given an opportunity to speak a second time on the same issue until all others wishing to speak on the subject have had an opportunity to do so.
5. City Commission members may question speakers, but are not obligated to answer questions or make statements or commitments in response to issues raised by the public. Issues raised may be referred to the city manager for investigation, study, and recommendation or designated as future agenda items for consideration.
6. When a person(s) becomes unruly, the Mayor may declare said person(s) in the audience to be out of order and if necessary may rule that the individual(s) has forfeited the opportunity to speak further. Rudeness shall not be tolerated. A person(s) may be excluded from the meeting for breach of the peace committed at the meeting.
7. These rules of procedure are intended to supplement Robert’s Rules of Order, which have been adopted by the City Commission. Where inconsistencies or conflict may exist between these rules and Robert’s Rules of Order, these rules shall prevail.
8. Appeals from Commissions and Boards to the City Commission shall be limited to 15 minute presentations.
9. Cellular phones and pagers shall be turned off during the meeting.
10. Any changes shall be at the discretion of the Mayor or presiding officer.