Norfolk City Council’s rule limiting ‘repetitive’ public comment draws community pushback

Norfolk City Council has begun limiting public comments deemed repetitive. Some residents say that's preventing them from sharing their thoughts with their elected leaders. This is Brian Saunders for WHRO News. When large turnouts hit the council floor, Norfolk Council rules say the mayor can step in to cap comments on a single topic. Local residents like Henry Reid say the practice blocks their direct connection to city officials. Silencing of public speaking voices, it purposely puts a wall between the people and their counselors. At meetings this summer, the council stopped residents like Reed from speaking against flock surveillance cameras installed around the city. Mayor Kenny Alexander says that the rarely used measure prevents coordinated advocacy groups from taking over public comment when other residents are waiting to bring up items like flooding, parks, or schools. He says council members are accessible outside formal council sessions. Brian Saunders, WHRO News.