HomeMy WebLinkAbout05-16-2017 Item 13, RowleyCOUNCIL MEETING: - _ /
ITEM NO.: I
ElV-ED
I
MAY 15 2017
LERK
Residents for (duality Neighborhoods
Meeting date: May 16, 2017
SUBJECT: Item 13, Discussion of Public Comment
Dear Mayor Harmon and Members of the Council,
We were surprised, and dismayed, that the City Council would consider reducing the time allotted to
individuals for Public Comment, especially on the heels of the City receiving an award for the Public
Engagement and Noticing Manual. Although not the same, both are methods of outreach and listening
to the public's concerns and suggestions.
On April 18, 2017, Council voted to raise the fees to appeal various types of decisions from $281 to $623
(Tier 1), $346 (Tier 2) and $303 (Tier 3). Now you are suggesting limiting the Public Comment that allows
residents to bring up items of concern that are not on the agenda from three (3) to only one (1) minute.
It appears that instead of encouraging residents' participation, this council is intent on curbing it.
The Public Comment section is not the only agenda item that has exceeded the allotted time periods.
Although Public Comment may sometimes go over the scheduled 15 minutes, introductions, awards,
proclamations, etc., as well as Consent, Business and Public Hearing items have, also, exceeded the times
allotted to them. That is the nature of dealing with people and important issues.
If the council feels that 15 minutes is an insufficient allotment of time for Public Comment, we suggest
that time be extended to 30 minutes with the understanding that occasionally, as with other items on
the agenda, this item will go over the allotted time. The alternative of limiting residents' time to less
than three (3) minutes is not in keeping with council members' campaign promises or with the San Luis
Obispo culture.
Thank you for your time and your consideration of this important matter.
Sincerely,
Sandra Rowley
Chairperson, RQN