Board advances first reading of sign-in and time-limit resolution for public comment

Summary

The board completed the first reading of a resolution that would require speakers to sign in and limit public comment on COA projects to four minutes; the text was amended to allow the presiding officer or a majority of the board to waive the sign-in requirement or the time limit, and the measure will return for a final vote next month.

The Madison Historic District Board of Review held a first reading on a proposed change to meeting procedures that would require speakers who comment on Certificate of Appropriateness (COA) projects to sign in and impose a four-minute time limit per speaker.

During first reading staff read the proposed language into the record. Board members noted concerns about limiting spontaneous comments from neighbors who may not expect to speak; the board amended the draft to make the sign-in requirement and the four-minute limit waivable at the discretion of either the presiding officer or a majority of present and voting board members.

The amended resolution passed first reading and will be returned for a second reading and final adoption at the next regular meeting. Staff was asked to produce printed copies of the revised text for distribution to members prior to the second reading.