MSAD 9 POLICY MANUAL
File: BEDH-R
PUBLIC PARTICIPATION AT BOARD MEETINGS REGULATIONS
The following "ground rules" are to further guide public participation at meetings:
A. The chair may limit the time given to comments on a particular topic as well as the time any individual may speak.
B. In the event of a sizeable audience, the chair may require persons interested in speaking to so indicate by signing up to speak, so they may be called on in the most expedient order.
C. Citizens, employees and others with a legitimate interest in the board's business are welcome to participate as provided in this policy. Others may be recognized to speak at the board's discretion. Employees or employee groups will not be permitted to discuss matters for which other, more appropriate forums are provided
D. All speakers are to identify themselves as they begin talking. They will not be permitted to participate in gossip, make defamatory comments, or use abusive or vulgar language. The board chair will maintain the prerogative to discontinue any presentation which violates any of the public participation guidelines.
E. All speakers are to address the board chair and may direct questions or comments to board members or other officers of the school system only upon approval of the chair. Members of the board and the superintendent have the privilege of asking questions of any person who addresses the board. Such questions must be addressed through the chair.
F. Comments and suggestions will be welcomed and given consideration by the board. Speakers may offer objective comments on school operations and programs that concern them. Generally, the board may hear but not discuss or act on an item not on the agenda. Personal matters or complaints will not be entertained in a public meeting but will be deferred to established resolution procedures. Questions and concerns will be responded to through appropriate channels.
G. No complaints or allegations will be allowed concerning any personnel or any person connected to the school system. If appropriate, concerns about an individual will be handled in a conference where the rights and interests of all parties will be appropriately regarded.
Page 1 of 2
MSAD No. 9
File: BEDH-R
H. Generally, duplication or repetition of comments to the board should be avoided in order to make the most efficient use of the time in meetings. Groups or organizations are requested to be represented by designated spokespersons.
I. Special procedures shall be in place in case of disturbance or disorder. Such shall be prepared and reviewed annually by the superintendent, board chair, board attorney, and others, as appropriate.
J. The board shall, when appropriate, hold special public meetings at which no formal action is to be taken. This shall be solely for the purpose of encouraging interested citizens and groups to discuss with the board any aspects of the school system operations. The times and locations of these meetings shall be at the convenience of the public, to the extent practical. Such meetings should not be occasions for employees to discuss concerns which should be handled through other forums.
Legal Reference: TITLE 1 MRSA SEC. 401 ET SEQ.__FREEDOM OF ACCESS
Cross Reference: BEC _ EXECUTIVE SESSION
BEDA _ NOTIFICATION OF BOARD MEETINGS
BEDB _ AGENDA
BEDC _ QUORUM
BEDD _ RULES OF ORDER
BEDG _ MINUTES
Adopted: January 25, 1994
Revised: February 29, 2000