Live public comment at Somerville School Committee meetings is on hold until there’s a way to mute or cut off speakers who might go too far legally, chair Emily Ackman said at the body’s Monday meeting.
The issue is not new – mayor Jake Wilson said there was an exploration several years ago of how to add a cutoff switch to the audio technology in the City Hall chamber used for committee and City Council meetings. It’s of refreshed concern because of a comment before summer break that made allegations against district staff, and named names.
“There is no option should an individual start speaking in ways that are unlawful or that could get the district sued,” Ackman said. “Legal counsel is concerned that it leaves us as a body exposed legally if there’s not a way to shut that mic off from up here.”…