Support Public Comment at all Worcester County Commissioner Meetings

The Worcester County Commissioners don’t provide time for public comment on important issues at every meeting. When our elected officials don’t make time to listen to constituents they are unable to make informed decisions about policy and spending that impact the lives of all residents.

We ask the Commissioners to commit to scheduling ample time for public comment at every Commissioners meeting.

Let the Commissioners know that you want them to exercise good government and listen to constituents. Sign and share this petition today!

The official letter to the commissioners: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1xlLpEr5Oj4j3f_UGc2v2lTUDiZ8PNOEu/view?usp=sharing

Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: The Commissioners already offer the opportunity for public input on the budget and other predetermined topics throughout the year. Isn't this sufficient?
A: The current practice is to solicit public input on specific topics during specific meetings. This practice often means that public input is not sought until decisions have been discussed, making it too late in the process to effect change. Our proposal seeks a broader and more consistent approach. Having open public comment sessions on the agenda of every Commissioner meeting prior to votes and discussion ensures that citizens can address a wide range of matters beyond the predetermined topics. This comprehensive engagement allows for a more holistic understanding of community concerns and promotes transparency in decision-making across all aspects of county governance.

Q: Some County Commissioners offer Town Hall meetings. Isn’t this the same thing?
A: Town Hall meetings, while valuable, are usually specific events initiated by individual commissioners and often focus on predetermined issues. We advocate for a more open and regular dialogue in all Commissioner meetings, addressing a variety of matters. Our proposal ensures that there is a system in place that allows ALL Commissioners to hear citizens on a variety of topics, fostering ongoing public participation for lasting impact. The current system relies on having Commissioners who are open to organizing Town Hall meetings instead of making it an expected portion of every public meeting.

Q: Do other counties in Maryland include public comment at every County Commissioner or Council meeting?
A: According to the information that we’ve gathered so far, the following Maryland districts include public comment at every Commissioner or Council meeting: Allegany, Anne Arundel, Baltimore City, Baltimore County, Calvert, Caroline, Carroll, Cecil, Charles, Dorchester, Frederick, Garrett, Harford, Kent, Prince George’s, Somerset, Queen Anne’s, Washington, Talbot,
The following districts only allow public comment at specific times: Howard, St. Mary’s, Montgomery, Worcester