Council Debates Public Comment Rules and a Bus Bench Contract

The council delves into public comment rules, addressing consistency and enforcement, while debating bus bench agreements, including political signage and potential revenue use for shelter improvements. Concerns about diversity in the Growth Alliance and stalled Eastside plans are also raised. 19mins

Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Economic Development Public Engagement
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Original Meeting

Tuesday, April 8th, 2025
8986.0
Springfield Illinois Committee of the Whole Meeting Tuesday April 8 2025
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Alex Rosen
Durham, North Carolina
As the Executive Director of See Gov, I focus on how to best achieve our mission of expanding thoughtful and consistent participation in democracy. I develop See Gov's technology, work to grow our impact, and find ways to sustain our nonprofit. I live in Durham, NC and make highlight reels for Durham and other See Gov pilot communities.
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In This Video
  • Corporation Counsel Moredock provided an overview of the Open Meetings Act and public comment rules, emphasizing the requirements for public forums and the limitations on restrictions that can be imposed by the government.
  • Corporation Counsel Moredock detailed the rules governing public comments at City Council meetings, including time limits, conduct restrictions, and enforcement procedures, emphasizing the importance of consistent application to avoid confusion.
  • Corporation Counsel Moredock discussed the inconsistency in handling public questions during City Council meetings and emphasized the need for clear rules to ensure fair treatment.
  • Alderman Williams, Jr. inquired about the decision-making process for broadcasting public comments and the scope of topics allowed, with Corporation Counsel Moredock clarifying that the mayor decides on broadcasting and comments must pertain to agenda items or city jurisdiction.
  • Alderman Donelan expressed appreciation for concise presentations and emphasized the importance of consistent broadcasting of meetings to ensure public access and awareness.
  • Alderwoman Conley emphasized the importance of broadcasting meetings for public access and discussed procedures for incorporating visual aids during public comments, with Corporation Counsel Moredock outlining the process for submitting and reviewing these aids.
  • Alderwoman Notariano and Corporation Counsel Moredock discussed procedures for handling disruptions during meetings, including warnings and potential consequences for continued misconduct.
  • Alderwoman Conley inquired about the maintenance and replacement of bus stop benches, with Keith Haynes from Ace Sign explaining the process and challenges involved in updating older benches to more durable aluminum ones.
  • Corporation Counsel Moredock explained that the current contract does not prohibit political advertising on bus benches, and any new regulations would need to be reviewed for compliance with the First Amendment.
  • Alderman Williams raised concerns about political signage on bus benches located in city rights-of-way, questioning the consistency of free speech regulations and suggesting a review of policies regarding political advertising.
  • Corporation Counsel Moredock and Alderman Williams, Jr. discussed the complexities of regulating political signage on bus benches, highlighting concerns about content-based restrictions and suggesting a review of contract terms to ensure fairness.
  • Alderwoman Notariano suggested using revenue from the bus bench agreement to invest in modernizing bus stops with shelters to protect people from the elements, citing data on increased medical appointment cancellations on rainy days.
  • Alderman Gregory proposed preparing amendments to exclude political language on bus benches and suggested an ordinance to allow political signs in city rights-of-way, aiming for fairness and transparency.
  • Alderman Gregory expressed concerns about the lack of diversity within the Sangamon County Growth Alliance and emphasized the importance of prioritizing support for small businesses in Springfield, suggesting amendments for solutions.
  • Alderman Williams expressed frustration over the lack of progress on the Eastside plan by the Sangamon County Growth Alliance, urging for action to address development needs in the area.
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