New Public and Council Member Meeting Code of Conduct

In an effort to add organization and efficiency to the North Apollo Borough Council Meetings, President Ali along with the Solicitor would like to institute the following policy:

a. Cell phones will be silenced, and conversations on devices will not be allowed.

b. During public comments, the public has the right to speak upon their desired topic for 3 minutes and the time limit will be strictly enforced.

c. While a member of the public is speaking, the council will listen but not respond. Residents' statements should be concise and follow up questions will be allowed only if required for clarification. Any clarification questions must be directed to the President or presiding officer and should not become a cross-examination period by either residents or Council members.

d. No council member will speak unless recognized by council President or presiding officer.

e. Council members and residents will be respectful when others are speaking and while they are being spoken to so that everyone is able to hear what is said. This rule will cut down on repetitive questions or missed information.

f. Issues or disputes between a member of the public and a Council member should be discussed or debated outside the meeting rather than during the meeting.

In Summary:

Keep phones off, silent, or vibrating to avoid noise.

No talking on devices during the meeting.

No outbursts or side commentary by uninvited speakers.

Public comment must be recognized by the presiding officer.

Council members are to speak only if recognized by the presiding officer.

No Q&A or debate during public comments.

Personal matters are to be discussed outside the meeting.

Anyone violating the rules will be warned. Repeat offenders will be asked to leave the meeting. Please let me know if there are other items you think to add to this or issues you would like to address that would allow for a more effective meeting.