Concern about the commissioners’ decision to allow for public comments only at the beginning of commissioner meetings has not subsided.
At the weekly commissioners meeting a Havre resident, Rickie Magnuissen expressed his concern regarding the change. He presented an argument based in his personal experience as an administrator with a board of directors. He explained that he wouldn’t have been the administrator for very long had he not allowed for comments and questions.
Commissioner Mark Peterson then clarified, “there would be discussion amongst the commissioners, it’s just that the public would be limited to the beginning.”
Magnuissen replied, “but to just sort of and I use the word blatantly say that we’re not able to comment on something after it’s discussed at the beginning of the meeting, I just find it highly…..” He paused and then asked that the previous meeting format be restored.
The commissioners expressed intent to take his concerns into consideration and offered to be in communication with him about it, then the meeting went on.
At the end of the meeting, Mr. Magnuissen directly asked if there would be any further consideration and clarity coming from the commissioners. Mark Peterson said it will be definitely being taken into consideration.
Commissioner Strissel then explained that the idea is to prevent the meetings from getting sidetracked into arguments, but to keep the meeting focused and solution oriented.
It’s noteworthy that throughout the meeting Mr. Magnuissen continued to ask questions which were answered by the commissioners.
