On Monday, September 22, the Executive Committee of the Saluda County Republican Party voted to support same-day signup for citizens to speak before regular County Council Meetings. If passed by Council, this would replace the current 10-day advance requirement to register to speak.
This new policy, would not only make it easier for any citizen to directly engage with their elected representatives, but will also give them the opportunity to read the meeting agenda before deciding to speak.
Thirty-seven of South Carolina’s forty-six counties currently have a “same-day signup” policy. The Saluda County GOP strongly believes that Saluda County residents deserve the same.
The Petition:
We, the undersigned, urge the Saluda County Council to adopt a resolution with the following provisions:
Agenda Items: At the beginning of every regular County Council meeting, a public comment period of fifteen (15) minutes shall be provided for citizens to speak specifically on items listed on the meeting agenda.
Non-Agenda Items: At the conclusion of every regular County Council meeting, but before any Executive Session, a second public comment period of fifteen (15) minutes shall be provided for citizens to address the Council on matters not included on the current agenda.
Time Limit: Each speaker shall be allotted up to four (4) minutes.
Sign-Up Requirement: Citizens wishing to speak shall sign up prior to the start of the meeting.
Sign Up Sheet: Must be available at 5:30 in the foyer.
Order of Speaking: Speakers will be recognized in the order in which they signed up. First come, first served.
Council Response: Council members shall review all citizen comments and provide responses, as appropriate, at the next regular Council meeting.
