Wisconsin law encourages participation of the public during governmental meetings, especially during public input. Boards are specifically authorized by the open meetings law to respond to citizen comments during public input. Current board practices discourage or prohibit this opportunity for board members to interact with their constituents.
I am requesting the committee consider recommending a policy promoting meaningful dialog with citizens during public input. I am also requesting the committee consider recommending a policy or guideline authorizing the board chair to recognize citizens who wish to contribute to discussion during board or committee meetings.
The current boardroom is unable to accommodate routine public attendance. During regular board meetings, citizens must stand at the back of the room or even in the lobby outside the boardroom. Student presentations must be squeezed into the aisle in front of the board table. Presentations by staff or others begin with rearranging seating in order to accommodate even the simplest display of information. Mobility of board members and citizens is limited, especially during presentations. Increased public attendance at a particular board meeting cannot be accommodated without moving to a temporary venue.
The audio/visual capabilities of the existing boardroom are very limited. Citizens watching the board meetings from home are often unable to see or hear board members when they are speaking. Presentation of slides, overheads or computer graphics is unprofessional and ineffective for board members, the audience and home viewers.
I am requesting the committee recommend establishing a permanent venue for board meetings that professionally accommodates board activities and encourages public interest and participation.