Branson Aldermen Postponed Amendment After Much Consideration

Branson's aldermen decided to postpone voting on an amendment that would impact the public's time to speak on agenda items during Regular and Special meetings.

That happened after much discussion around Bill No. 6565. It's a proposed amendment that would bring clarity to what's allowed during periods of speaking from the public during both kinds of meetings. The change would not focus on the public comment section that occurs before agendas are considered.

Instead, it zeros in on comments made by the public that are connected to specific agenda items. The conversation evolved into what power the mayor has or should have to limit the time of public comment.

There was disagreement and uncertainty as to what should happen, with some saying the change wouldn't do anything substantial and others expressing that something should change.

Currently, the mayor can propose time limits on comments, but current code doesn't specify under what instances that can occur. Branson Mayor Larry Milton wasn't present at the meeting. So, Aldermen Clay Cooper served in his absence.

The full meeting is online.