Scottsdale City Council to debate limits on public comments at meetings

Proposal to reduce citizens input in council meetings stirs up frustration for residents

Residents are weighing in after the city of Scottsdale debates on reducing citizens' input in city council meetings. FOX 10's Taylor Wirtz learns more about the stricter rules that may soon be implemented.

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. - The city of Scottsdale is considering moving toward stricter rules on public comment— fewer voices, less time. The proposal is stirring frustration among residents who fear their input is being cut short.

What we know:

But this week, the city is considering limiting the amount of people who can talk and the time they are given to do so. City Council will discuss the proposed changes at its meeting on Dec. 2, suggested by the interim city attorney and city clerk, and supported by Vice Mayor Adam Kwasman. 

According to a memo sent to the mayor and City Council, the changes would reduce public comment on non-agenda items from three minutes to two, and reducing the number of speakers from 10 to eight. While Arizona law requires council meetings be open to the public, it does not require a city to offer public comment at those meetings.

The memo says these changes are suggested to streamline council operations and make meetings more efficient, civil and legally sound. 

Scottsdale considers changing rules on public comment at council meetings

A Valley city is considering changing its rules on public comment at council meetings, giving people less time to talk. FOX 10's Taylor Wirtz learns more about the changes being discussed.

What they're saying:

For many Scottsdale citizens, public comment is a way to make their voices heard. John Washington has spoken at countless Scottsdale City Council meetings. 

"Many times, and many times I've been one of the ones that they would have rather not spoken," said Washington.

Craig Milbourn watches every single one. 

"I've never missed a City Council meeting probably in 20 some years," Milbourn said.

But this week, they are speaking their minds about the very chance to speak.

"Well, I think it's unfortunate," Washington said. "Citizen engagement is an essential part of Scottsdale City government. And in fact, it's an essential element of the city charter. Public comment is actually a very, very small part-time wise of the discussions that take place. And in my opinion, we could use a lot less discussion from the council and a lot more citizen input."

"The new council members that they ran their campaigns on, will listen to the residents. And it seems like this is doing the exact opposite of what they promised," Milbourn said.

The other side:

Councilwoman Jan Dubauskas said she's not in favor of limiting public comment and doesn't know any councilmembers who are.  Scottsdale Mayor Lisa Borowsky also issued a statement saying she opposes limiting public comment. 

Don Scott lives in Fountain Hills, which just voted to suspend public comment altogether for non-agenda items. While he admits the comments can sometimes get off topic, "I think that people can certainly get carried away with their speech," he said.

Scott disagrees with the action his town took. 

"I don't think anybody, regardless of politics, likes to basically be muzzled," he said.

Dig deeper:

Milbourn hopes Scottsdale does not get that far. 

"I can't get everything I want out of city government, but don't hinder my right to speak," Milbourn said.

What's next:

FOX 10 reached out to the interim city attorney, city clerk, and Vice Mayor Kwasman for comment and are waiting to hear back.