In the last year, lengthy public appearances before meetings have caused some meetings to begin hours after they were scheduled to begin.

"By the time we get to discussing our business and trying to make decisions, none of us are at our best because it's so late. I don't think we're serving the best interests of the kids when that happens," she said.

But Thomas Mertz, Progressive Dane's education task force chair, said the group was concerned that the change in policy would limit public input about important school-related topics.

"We believe public input should be as easy as possible," Mertz said. He said by limiting public commentary and appearances to agenda items before the meetings, the board risked increasing distrust from the community.

In a press release from Progressive Dane criticizing the board for the suggested change, former board member Bill Keys said, "We urge the Board of Education to abandon this proposal and begin an open discussion on ways that both the Board and the public can improve communiction. There's no need to rush."

Silveira objected to characterizing the change as an effort to limit public discussion or input.

"That is simply not true. This has been a discussion about trying to find a solution to a problem in getting the work done we were elected to do. Under this proposal, people can certainly speak on non-agenda items, just not before we begin our business meetings," she said.

She added that the board's communications committee was looking at additional ways to hear from individuals and organizations, and that at its Feb. 18 meeting there would be an opportunity for public discussion.

"I am glad the board did not vote on this proposal this week, that it was moved to a later date and there will now be an opportunity for public debate," Mertz said.

Debbie Fields, secretary of the Madison Common Council, said individuals who want to make public comments prior to Madison city council meetings must register on the specific agenda item they wish to address. Their remarks are limited to 3 minutes for regular agenda items, 5 minutes for public hearing items.

Although individuals may not speak on non-agenda items at regular Council meetings. public comments on a variety of subjects are permitted at committee meetings.

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