ND ACLU shares concerns over Fargo's plans to potentially restrict or eliminate public comment period

(Fargo, ND) -- A representative with the North Dakota American Civil Liberties Union is agreeing in part, but issuing caution, to Fargo Commissioners regarding public comment periods in the city. 

Members of the Fargo City Commission spoke at a March 4th meeting, with disagreements about the future of public comments. One proposal would aim to eliminate the public comment period from commission meetings outright, but replace them with quarterly meeting with commissioners and other city officials. Now, at the March 18th meeting, the ND American Civil Liberties Union says the city needs to be tread carefully on restricting freedom of speech. 

"Standing publicly and having the ability to address one's civic concerns is a cornerstone of democracy," said Cody Schuler, a spokesperson with the ND ACLU, at the Monday meeting. Schuler's microphone was eventually muted for going over the speaking time, but he continued speaking about the "vital" need for public feedback.

One of the critiques of the current public comment system comes from Commissioner Denise Kolpack, who stated the system does not allow the city leaders to provide feedback, ask questions, or otherwise engage in dialogue to resolve questions or issues. Schuler agreed with Commissioner Kolpack in a conversation with WDAY Radio, saying "Dialogue is needed, you can't just have one way information. Also, it is also important for people to be able to speak and not be silenced or interrupted."

Currently, the public comment period changes are still in consideration and have not been cemented. Previous proposals have changed the open-topic comment period to the end of commission meetings, with agenda-related items at the beginning; put limitations or restrictions on signage and clapping, and more.