Rules of Decorum for the Governing Body 

• Members of the governing body shall not use or make inappropriate, vulgar, opprobrious words or offensive comments. Members shall maintain a civil and courteous manner and tone.

• Members of the governing body shall only speak to the matter currently under consideration by the Mayor and Council.

• During presentations, discussion or debate, members of the governing body shall refrain from communicating among each other, giving attention and due respect for the speaker or council member addressing the body.

• While a member of the governing body has the floor, members of council and members of the public shall not interrupt the speaker unless the speaker is ruled out of order.

Members violating any rules of the decorum may be ruled out of order by the Mayor. An individual violating the rules of decorum may be removed from the meeting in accordance with Roberts Rules of Order. 

Rules of Decorum for the Public 

• Each Speaker will be given 5 minutes to speak during the public comment period. 

• Each speaker will direct his or her comments to the members of the governing body and not to any individual member or other individual present unless a question is directed to him or her by a member of the governing body. 

• Each speaker will refrain from personal attacks, foul or abusive language and will maintain a civil and courteous manner and tone. 

• Members of the audience will respect the rights of others and will not create noise or other disturbances that will disrupt or disturb the meeting. 

Individuals violating any rules of the decorum may be ruled out of order by the Mayor. An individual violating the rules of decorum may be removed from the meeting at the direction of the Mayor.