A rather mundane discussion regarding a resolution amending Town Council Rules and Procedures at the Nov. 7 council session was briefly livened up by an exchange by Mayor Linda Kavanagh and Councilman Henry Leger regarding the control of public comment during meetings.

Leger asked Town Attorney Andrew McGuire whether it would be appropriate for a council member to call the chair’s attention to a divergence from the rules regarding public comment.

Leger specifically commented on instances where members of the audience were making comments to the council while seated, while normal procedure would have them come to the podium for comment.

McGuire said it would be appropriate for other council members to bring a perceived rules violation to the attention of the chair. However, he noted that how the situation is handled is still at the discretion of the chair, or mayor.

Kavanagh commented that she was interested in listening to the public and would take comment as she decides is appropriate.

Leger said he was not necessarily directing his comments at any instances involving her, he only wanted clarification from the town attorney on whether it is appropriate for a council member to bring up what he or she perceived as a violation.

However, Leger did acknowledge that he has concerns about speakers returning to their seat and then making additional comments and asking questions from their seat.

Kavanagh said she would not cut off any citizens wanting to speak.

Other items

The council also discussed trying to clarify and streamline the process for getting items placed on a meeting agenda.

McGuire said it is important to know whether there is sufficient interest on the part of the council before devoting staff time to doing research and preparing reports for presentation to the council.

Council members also discussed the amount of time that should be allowed for informational presentations during the council meetings.

They decided to allow up to 30 minutes total during a meeting for presentations from outside groups that may or may not pertain to a council issue or discussion. These are not related to action items.

A change is also being made so residents speaking before the council will not need to provide an address, they will simply state whether or not they are a resident of Fountain Hills.

The council voted unanimously to approve the resolution amending the rules and procedures.