Newcastle City Council addresses public comment issue during April meeting

The Newcastle City Council meeting on April 1 highlighted a growing concern among residents regarding the participation of non-residents in local discussions. During the public comment segment, resident Larry Fudge voiced his frustration over individuals from outside the city attending meetings and pushing their agendas, which he believes detracts from the voices of Newcastle residents.

Fudge commended Mayor Clark for maintaining order during the meetings but expressed a desire for the council to prioritize local voices, especially when attendance is high. "We have a lot of people brought in... pitching their agendas from their cities," he stated, urging the council to ensure that Newcastle residents have the opportunity to speak and be seated first.

This call for action reflects a broader sentiment among community members who feel that their concerns may be overshadowed by outside influences. The council did not immediately respond to Fudge's request, but the issue raises important questions about community representation and engagement in local governance.

As the council continues its work, it remains to be seen how they will address these concerns and whether any changes will be implemented to ensure that the voices of Newcastle residents are prioritized in future meetings.