by TaLeiza Calloway
news@thenewsleaders.com
The St. Joseph Economic Development Authority will soon hear comments from the public as part of its meetings.
On June 20, members of the EDA agreed to add a public-comment period to their meetings. Those interested in sharing ideas and or comments will have up to two minutes to do so. If more than five people show up to speak, then a sign-up sheet will be initiated to start a first-come-first-served policy.
The EDA is the second board in the city to have a public-comment period on its agenda. The first is the St. Joseph City Council, which has established on its agenda as the second item of business, a period during which the public can express opinions.
St. Joseph City Administrator Judy Weyrens said the public comment period is not required of area cities and is designed to be a one-way discussion. It is supposed to be between 5-10 minutes.
Other area cities also provide options for public input from residents. City councils in the cities of Sartell, Sauk Rapids, Waite Park, St. Cloud, St. Augusta and Cold Spring all have public-comment periods during regular meetings.
The St. Joseph EDA meets at 5 p.m. on the fourth Wednesday of the month. The next meeting is slated for July 25 at city hall.
