BOE adhering to policy on public comments

   At its annual organizational meeting on Tuesday, July 5, the Fort Plain Central School Board of Education committed to adhere to its previously established policy regarding public comments at board of education meetings. Each speaker will be limited to five minutes and all comments must relate to the agenda topic they wish to discuss.

   “The Board of Education members realized they have been so intent on making the public feel welcome, they have strayed from their own policy of limiting speakers to five minutes,” said Superintendent Douglas C. Burton.

   “They have decided to refocus on their own policy, which will be implemented immediately.”

   Adopted in 2005, the policy states that the board president may ask for “brief comments from the public and set a time limit on such comments.”

   People wishing to speak will identify themselves by name, address, and any organization they represent.

   Also at Tuesday’s meeting, the board elected its officers for 2011-12.

   Elected were president Todd McFee, first vice president Mary Beth Hudyncia and second vice president David Fredericks. The board also swore in new member Jeffrey Jones for a three-year term.