10 signatures reached
To: Belchertown Selectboard
Allow public comment at Belchertown Selectboard meetings
The Belchertown Selectboard is considering creating space for consistent public comment at its meetings. Residents in the town need a space and opportunities to share their thoughts and concerns with our elected officials about the most pressing issues facing our community.
We are urging the Selectboard to institute a regular 15 minute, open public comment period at the start of every Selectboard meeting and encouraging all elected and appointed council and committee meetings to do the same.
Why is this important?
The Selectboard has an inconsistent process for allowing public comment which does not give residents clear opportunities and avenues for communicating their perspectives, lived experiences and concerns about what is happening in our community. By instituting a regular process for public comment at Selectboard meetings — something that is common in most other communities — Belchertown's leadership will be supporting the democratic process and helping to facilitate necessary dialog between residents and elected officials.