The Long Beach City Council voted Tuesday to change how residents speak during council meetings, despite strong opposition from the public.
Residents told the council they believe the changes make it harder for the public to be heard. Some questioned whether the council really wants to listen to residents when public comment is being moved into one short section at the start of meetings.
Under the new rules, all public comments will happen at the beginning of the meeting. Total public comment will be limited to 90 minutes unless the council adds more time.
• 10 or fewer speakers: 3 minutes each
• 11 to 20 speakers: 90 seconds each
• More than 21 speakers: 30 seconds each
Previously, residents could speak during general public comment, on individual agenda items and again at the end of meetings.
The City says the change will save about $150,632 in overtime costs and could help restore services such as Quality of Life officers and library hours.
The proposal failed 5-3 when it was first brought forward in June. Residents argued the changes were not required by state law.
The council also approved a roughly $4 billion budget by a 7-2 vote as Long Beach faces a $58.2 million shortfall.
About 180 jobs will be eliminated, and Fire Engine 14 near Colorado Lagoon will be cut, potentially increasing emergency response times.
Parking tickets for 18 violations will rise to $100, while street-sweeping tickets will increase to $80. The cannabis retail tax will also rise from 7% to 8%.
Councilmembers Cindy Allen and Kristina Duggan opposed the budget.
The decisions leave residents facing higher fees, service cuts and less time to speak directly to their elected officials.
On Tuesday, the City Council will take more votes to put the plan in place. This includes changing the local cannabis tax, moving money between departments, and giving final approval to the city budget.
You must be logged in to post a comment.