Limit Proposed on Remarks to City Council

Culver City Councilman Albert Vera has an idea for shortening council meetings: a three-minute time limit for residents who speak at the gatherings.

A few residents at Monday’s meeting, however, suggested that if Vera and his colleagues are serious about wanting to adjourn earlier, they can find the solution by looking in the mirror.

In the past, the council has resorted to egg timers and red-and-green stoplights at some meetings. But it has never imposed an across-the-board talk limit before, said Bob Norquist, assistant to the city’s chief administrative officer.

Vera said his proposal, which the council referred to the city staff for further study, would lead to “running efficient meetings” and eliminating redundant public comments.

Among the critics of the proposal was resident Alfred Friebert, who told the council members that they should not subject the public to rules they were unwilling to abide by themselves.

“You people speak for quite a while and repeat yourself many a time,” Friebert said. “Let the public do the same.”

It is not unusual for Culver City Council meetings--which begin at 7:30 p.m.--to run until 1 a.m. But Robert Rapaich said faithful residents like himself are usually there with council members until the final gavel.

“Some people do repeat what somebody else has said,” Rapaich said. “But what I’m afraid we might lose is the impact that each person has when they stand before you with their frustrations.”

Rapaich said he thinks Vera’s idea is “a good one.” But he also said it is “every citizen’s right to stand before the council.”

Vera said his proposal is not intended to muzzle anyone, but is an attempt to ensure fairness to everyone who wishes to be heard.

“I’ve seen, many nights, people standing and waiting and getting tired and leaving without the opportunity of coming up and giving their opinion,” Vera said.

The city staff will gather data from other cities that have imposed restrictions.

Norquist suggested requiring anyone wishing to address the council to sign up in advance, such as the system now in use at meetings where many people wish to speak on an issue.