By Lea Kahn, Staff Writer
Starting with Tuesday’s Township Council meeting, residents will have twice as many chances to address the council during its twice-a-month meetings.
Township Council gave final approval to an ordinance at its Jan. 22 meeting that revises the meeting agenda to include two “public participation” portions one at the beginning of the meeting and one toward the end of the meeting.
Mayor Jim Kownacki and Council members Cathleen Lewis and Michael Powers voted for it. Councilman David Maffei abstained, as did newly appointed Councilman Stephen Brame.
After the meeting, Mr. Maffei said he abstained because the version that was presented for final action included a 5-minute time limit for speakers during the first segment. The ordinance as proposed earlier did not limit speakers during the first “public participation,” but limited them to 3 minutes during the second segment. The change had not been discussed, he said.
The Township Council agenda had always allowed for “public participation” early in the meeting, and again when a public hearing had been set for a bid award or on an ordinance that was up for final approval. Comments were made prior to the council’s vote.
But in response to months of prodding by some residents for more opportunities to comment at the meetings, Township Council agreed to include a second “public participation” item on the agenda.
During public participation, residents may ask questions of Township Council or comment on issues of concern to them. They may offer advice to Township Council, or suggest that the council reconsider its position on an issue.
The ordinance that was approved last week allows for the first “public participation” segment to be held early in the meeting right after the pledge of allegiance, roll call and special proclamations, recognition and presentations.
The second chance for public participation has been placed at the end of the meeting after the rest of council’s business, such as action on ordinances and bid awards, and reports by the municipal manager and municipal attorney.
The ordinance limits speakers to 5 minutes during the first “public participation” segment, and to 3 minutes during the second segment. Municipal Attorney David Roskos told Township Council that there is precedent for placing time limits on speakers.
Township resident Amy Davis, who had pushed for additional opportunities to comment, thanked Township Council for “listening to the public” and changing the agenda. She added that she wished it had not taken six months to accomplish, but indicated that she was pleased.

