New Guidelines announced for public comments at Hilton Head Island Town meetings

Residents and other members of the public who wish to address the Town of Hilton Head Island council members must now follow new guidelines that took effect on July 1.

At its meeting on June 18, the Town Council approved an ordinance amending the Town Code to update public comment rules and procedures for agenda and non-agenda items. These new guidelines ensure that each speaker is heard and that meetings proceed orderly.

To speak at Town meetings, the public is encouraged to submit the online public comment form at least two hours before the meeting. Alternatively, individuals can complete a physical form and submit it to the Town Clerk or board, commission, or committee Secretary ten minutes before the start of a public meeting. These forms will be available at all public meetings.

The presiding officer will call for public comments after presenting each agenda item. The Town Clerk or Secretary will call on speakers based on the forms received. Public comments will continue to be limited to three minutes per speaker per agenda item. Speakers may comment on non-agenda items after the formal Town Council business.

Mayor Alan Perry expressed his support for these changes, stating, “Our goal is to ensure that every voice is heard and that our meetings are conducted efficiently. These new procedures will facilitate a more orderly and inclusive public comment process.”

For more information about speaking at public meetings or accessing the public comment form, please visit hiltonheadislandsc.gov or contact Town Clerk Kimberly Gammon at [email protected].