Bloomington alderman to discuss public comment changes

Posted on June 22, 2015
Bloomington City Hall
Currently, residents making public comments in Bloomington can speak on any topic they wish. (WJBC file photo)

By Adam Studzinski

BLOOMINGTON – Bloomington is looking at altering its public comment ordinance.

The City Council plans to vote Monday night on limiting those speaking during public comment periods to only talking about items on the agenda.

“So if somebody is going to come speak to the council, they’ll need to identify the agenda item they’re going to speak about,” said City Attorney Jeff Jurgens. “They’ll be required to only speak about that agenda item.”

Currently, citizens can comment on any topic they want. Jurgens said the public comment session would still be limited to 15 minutes.

“We do provide that if you have spoken at a meeting within the last 15 days that you would essentially only be allowed to speak if time allows,” he said.

The new ordinance would also make it possible for residents to speak at work sessions, which was not previously allowed.

Adam Studzinski can be reached at [email protected].

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