City Commission Adopts Public Comment Policy

Jul. 28, 2025 —At its July 1 meeting, the City Commission adopted a Public Comment Policy designed to foster respectful, organized, and inclusive participation in city governance. The policy is in response to passed legislation, Senate Bill No. 2180, which requires every regular meeting of a governing body of a city, county, township, school district, park district, or water resource district to include an opportunity for an individual to provide public comment.

The policy ensures that residents have a structured opportunity to voice their opinions while maintaining the efficiency and decorum of commission meetings. Here are the key highlights:

How to Participate:

  • Public comment is the first non-procedural item on every regular meeting agenda.
  • Individuals must submit a speaker card before the meeting begins. This card must include the individual’s full name, address, and the specific agenda item they are commenting on (from the current of previous meeting agenda)
  • Incomplete cards will disqualify individuals from speaking.

Time and Order

  • Each speaker is allotted three minutes.
  • The total public comment period is capped at 30 minutes.
  • Speakers are called in the order their cards were submitted.
  • Time cannot be transferred to another speaker.

Comment Guidelines. Comments must:

  • Relate to the specified agenda item
  • Be relevant to the City Commission and items on the current or previous agenda
  • Be addressed to the entire board
  • Comments must not be defamatory, harassing, unlawful, or disruptive.
  • Use of the City’s audio/visual equipment is not permitted.

Written Comments

  • Those unable to attend may submit written comments to the City Administrator.
  • If received 24 hours before the meeting, they will be shared with the commissioners in advance.
  • Later submissions will be distributed after the meeting.
  • Written comments must include the speaker’s name, address, and the relevant agenda item.
  • Flexibility
  • The Mayor retains the discretion to extend time limits if necessary.

“This policy reflects our commitment to transparency and community involvement,” says Mayor James Froelich. “We want every resident to feel heard and respected, and this structure ensures that public input is both meaningful and manageable.”

This policy reflects Mandan’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and community involvement. Residents are encouraged to participate and make their voices heard in a respectful and constructive manner. Read the full policy at cityofmandan.com/citycommission