Polk County Commissioners voted to limit general public comment on non-agenda items to just 15 speakers per meeting. This change was passed unanimously on a consent agenda, without public discussion.
For years, residents have shown up to speak about issues affecting our community, including animal welfare and public safety. Polk County Bully Project, founded by Angie Lorio and Shannon Medina, has dedicated years to advocating for homeless animals and pulls roughly 70% of dogs from Polk County Animal Control each year.
Public comment is one of the only opportunities ordinary citizens have to speak directly to elected officials, on the record. Limiting the number of voices that can be heard, especially after public comment was already moved to the end of meetings, raises serious concerns about transparency, accessibility, and public trust…