North Allegheny considers changes in posting agendas, public speaking times

The North Allegheny School Board discussed possible policy changes that would give it more time to complete its agenda before a public meeting, but give residents less time to see what’s on it.

Board members also discussed setting new time limits for individual comments from the public.

Superintendent of Schools Dr. Melissa Friez presented proposed policy changes during the school board’s Oct. 20 work session meeting. No action was taken and discussion is expected to continue.

Friez said the proposed change would require that board members receive agendas and supplemental documents at least 24 hours prior to a scheduled meeting. This is a change from the current 48 hours.

This proposal would make the agenda and related materials available to the public on the Tuesday prior to the board’s regularly scheduled Wednesday meeting. The policy currently is to have agenda and related materials posted to the public on the on Monday prior to Wednesdays’ meetings.

Friez said these adjustments would allow time to include any last-minute changes to agenda items.

“We want to make sure we send out an agenda that is complete,” said Friez.

These are only proposed changes, and Friez said she is open for discussion to make the best policy for the board and community.

Friez said agendas could be posted in advance of this time frame, if they are ready.

“It does say at least 24 hours, so we are able to post it earlier, and we have ambition to do this,” said Libby Blackburn, school board member.

Friez said these policy changes comply with the Pennsylvania Sunshine Act, an open meetings law which requires public agencies to discuss and take action during an open and public meetings, according to the Pennsylvania Office of Open Records website.

The law also requires that meetings have prior notice and that the public can attend, participate and comment before an agency takes that official action.

The North Allegheny meetings policy also states that residents and parents requesting to address the board at an open meeting should submit a formal request to the secretary of the board or superintendent not less than 24 hours in advance of the meeting. This will ensure placement on the agenda.

Those who submit formal requests are allowed five minutes speaking time, and those who did not provide advanced requests are given two minutes.

Board members discussed how several board meetings this school year have run extensively long due to lengthy public comment periods.

Board President Andrew Chomos said perhaps the time limit should be changed for advanced formal requests from five minutes to three. Chomos said when issues draw numerous speakers, it could help ensure that no one leaves before all speakers are heard.

Blackburn said she knows of other, even smaller districts that only allow two minutes for speakers. She also said those wanting to speak can email their remarks so they can be assured their entire comment is provided.