Petoskey council weighs privacy, Zoom access and a three‑minute public comment standard

Council members discussed how to modernize public comment rules for in‑person and Zoom participation, balancing transparency against personal safety and privacy.

Several members said that requiring a full street address for every public commenter could put vulnerable people at risk. Clerk Sarah noted that public-hearing rules sometimes require addresses, but for general public comment the council discussed alternatives: asking commenters to state ward, street name, or simply whether they are a resident or represent an organization. De Moore raised a concrete safety concern, saying she had a constituent who stopped coming to meetings after an incident following public comment, underscoring the privacy trade-offs.

On remote participation, members agreed that speaking into a microphone is necessary for accurate recording and for Zoom attendees to hear comments. Councilors proposed updating the policy text to reflect that necessity while noting it is not a statutory requirement.

Time limits and decorum: Members favored a three‑minute standard for public comment with the mayor retaining discretion to extend time for productive speakers. They also discussed discouraging personal attacks and leaving legal threats or criminal speech to law enforcement.

Written comments: Council agreed that written submissions addressed to the body of city council may be included in the record upon request, but need not be read aloud unless requested.

Next steps: Staff will consolidate the proposed language on public comment, address privacy exceptions for those with safety concerns, and note microphone/Zoom guidance for the attorney's review.