[HISTORY: Adopted by the Town Board of the Town of Lima as
indicated in article histories. Amendments noted where applicable.]
[Adopted 6-1-1995]
The Town Board understands its responsibility for the proper
management of the business and affairs of the Town through the orderly
conduct of its meetings. The Board, recognizing its meetings as serious
legislative sessions, also affirms its authority to establish controls
on public presentations to the Board.
A.
The Board invites and encourages public attendance at regular Board
meetings. While the public may not legally participate in such meetings
except under invitation of the Board, the Board wishes to allow reasonable
participation by establishing the following guidelines:
(1)
Members of the public wishing to make formal presentations to the
Board are asked to seek approval in advance from the Town Supervisor,
including the scope of discussion. The Supervisor may but shall not
be required to recognize and authorize presentations by parties in
attendance if prior approval to speak was not sought.
(2)
The time limit for visitors to speak shall be five minutes for individuals
and 15 minutes total. This time limit may be extended at the discretion
of the Board.
(3)
Any persons recognized by the Supervisor shall give their name, address
and the nature of their business briefly. The Board reserves the right
to limit discussion to matters on the Board agenda.
(4)
Any persons speaking to the Town Board with the consent of the Supervisor
shall address their remarks to the Town Board, not to other members
of the audience in the form of a debate.
(5)
No discussion or charges relating to the competence or personal conduct
of individuals shall be allowed.
(6)
No person has the right to demand an answer to a specific question
from a Board member. On individual items, the Supervisor may answer
questions, refer to Board or staff members for reply or for consideration
and later response.
(7)
Members of the news media shall have adequate time at the conclusion
of the meeting to ask questions concerning the matters discussed.
B.
These guidelines are designed to promote the efficient conduct of
regular Board meetings only. All Town Board members shall be routinely
available to discuss items of public concern.
