The Charter Review Commission Town Hall Meetings Committee convened on July 30, 2025, in Clallam County, Washington, to discuss various aspects of public engagement and meeting protocols. The meeting focused on improving the structure and effectiveness of town hall meetings, particularly regarding public speaking time and the overall format of discussions.

One of the primary topics addressed was the current three-minute speaking limit for public comments. Several committee members expressed concerns that this time frame may not allow sufficient opportunity for residents to articulate their questions or concerns adequately. A suggestion was made to extend the speaking time to five minutes, which some members believed would facilitate a more meaningful exchange of ideas. However, there was also a recognition that longer comments could lead to off-topic discussions, detracting from the purpose of the meetings.

The committee discussed the importance of maintaining a balance between allowing public input and ensuring that meetings remain focused and efficient. It was noted that while some attendees may have valuable insights, the format should encourage concise questions rather than lengthy monologues. The need for a structured approach to manage public comments was emphasized, with suggestions for implementing timers to help keep speakers on track.

Additionally, the committee acknowledged the necessity of recording meetings to ensure transparency and accountability. There was a consensus that all commission meetings should be documented, although specific recording requirements were not fully clarified during the discussion.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to explore these suggestions further, aiming to enhance the town hall experience for both residents and commissioners. The committee plans to continue refining the format of public engagement to foster a more interactive and productive dialogue in future meetings.