The Lafayette Parish Council voted down a proposal that would have limited the amount of time citizens have to speak during council meetings.
Proposal to Limit Public Comment
Council member Bryan Tabor introduced the proposal, which aimed to restrict speaking time based on the number of people signed up for a single agenda item. For example, if 21 or more people wanted to speak on a topic, each would have only one minute to address the council.
The proposal was rejected by a 4-1 vote, with Tabor casting the only vote in favour.
Reason for the Proposal
Tabor said he introduced the time restrictions out of respect for City Council members, whose meeting start times can be delayed by long Parish Council sessions. City Council meetings are scheduled to begin at 5 p.m. or immediately after Parish Council meetings end.
He also cited concerns for council staff who must work late and for citizens waiting to speak.
Opposition to the Proposal
Other council members and residents expressed strong opposition. Council member John Guilbeau said, “I feel that public input is absolutely crucial and valued in the decision-making of this body.”
Lafayette resident Bill Leyendecker criticised the plan, saying reducing speaking time is “disappointing and insulting.” He pointed out that citizens already had their speaking time reduced from five minutes to three.
Leyendecker added that some people take time off work to speak, and limiting them to one minute while council members sometimes discuss topics for 30 minutes or more sends the wrong message.
He said the proposal gave the impression that public discussion and a healthy exchange of ideas are an inconvenience to the council.
Council Decision
By rejecting the proposal, the Lafayette Parish Council maintained the current system for public comments, allowing citizens to continue having adequate time to voice their concerns during meetings.
