West Chester Borough Council recently voted to allow everyone, whether they live or work in the borough, to speak at its meetings, writes Bill Rettew for The Daily Local News.
Prior to the vote, the council’s meeting agenda for public comments read: “Comments, suggestions, petitions by residents in attendance regarding items that are not on the agenda. Please be advised that all public comment has a 5-minute time limit.”
After the vote, the agenda wording now includes, “residents, taxpayers, and visitors.”
The issue gained attention when Councilmen Bernie Flynn and Brian McGinnis objected to West Goshen resident and blogger Margie Swart speaking during the public comment portion of a June meeting.
Swart withdrew her request but explained she wished to ask about the arrest of Kevin Krebs at the No Kings Rally, whose home was searched and several explosives were discovered.
During the Wednesday voting session, both McGinnis and Flynn voted to allow visitors to make public comments in future meetings.
Resident Eric Lorgus also spoke during the meeting, noting “we should be interested in” what everyone has to say “if they should take the time to attend” a meeting in person.
Read more about the decision to allow any residents to speak at the West Chester Borough Council in The Daily Local News.
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