Blair County Public Comment Policy

Overview

The Blair County Board of Commissioners has established a policy to encourage public participation in government decisions. The goal is to provide adequate opportunities for residents and business owners to present their views on matters of importance.

Eligibility Requirements

To address the Board in person, an individual must meet at least one of the following criteria:

• Be a resident of Blair County.
• Own property in Blair County.
• Represent a business or organization located in Blair County.

Procedures for Public Comment

The following rules apply to public participation at Board meetings:

• Timing: Public comment occurs at the designated "Public Comments & Petitions" item on the regular Board Agenda.
• Identification: Speakers must state their full name, street address of residence, and municipality. Non-residents must provide the address of the property they own or identify the business they represent. This information is recorded in the Minutes.
• Time Limit: Individuals are allowed up to three (3) minutes to present their statements.
• No Voting: The Board will not take formal action or vote during public comment. If a comment relates to an agenda item, action will be taken at the appropriate time later in the meeting. Action cannot be taken on issues not on the agenda.
• Written Comments: Residents may submit written comments and testimony by mail, fax, or e-mail at any time.

Conduct and Scope

• Purpose: The section is intended for an orderly presentation of opinion, information, or fact to help the Board make decisions. It is not intended for debate.
• Appropriateness: The Chair may rule comments out of order if they are not appropriate to the intent of the policy.

Approval Details

The policy was approved by the following officials on August 31, 2024:

• Commissioners: David Kessling, Amy E. Webster, Laura O. Burke
• Chief Clerk: Lindsay Dempsie