Public commenters press St. Joseph council on library reappointment, drag-show concerns and new fiber installations

A lengthy public-comment period at the St. Joseph City Council’s July 10 meeting brought multiple concerns from residents about board appointments, family-friendly events and new broadband work in the city.

Brian Kirk, identified as a member of the city’s library board and pastor at First Christian Church, defended his possible reappointment and said he believed opposition to his selection stemmed from his public advocacy for LGBTQ people. "The true issue at hand here is 1 of freedom of speech as I see it," Kirk said, urging that boards and commissions reflect the community’s diversity and not exclude individuals over their views.

Several speakers raised objections to a recent downtown fundraiser promoted as family-friendly. Spencer Kearns said performers at the July 9 event included men in revealing costumes and that minors — including a child as young as 2 — were present. "Adult friendly maybe, but not family friendly," Kearns said. Jessica Kearns, who identified herself as a mother, said she was "heartbroken" that children attended and urged the city to prevent children from attending events she said were inappropriate.

Dave Mason criticized perceived political agendas driving appointments and programming on local boards, and Mitch Jamieson announced his resignation from the tree board after describing problems with volunteer coordination and site maintenance at several public sites.

Residents also asked about recent digging and orange stakes visible around the city. City staff said the primary installations are being done by United Fiber and MetroNet under right-of-way agreements that state law requires; the city imposes restoration requirements but private companies select their labor. Officials noted one company has opened a local office and that some work is performed by contractors (AlphaCom) hired by MetroNet.

The mayor noted police were present and said concerns about law enforcement matters would be forwarded to the chief. The council did not take formal action on the public comments during the meeting.