Council Rules for Speakers

Re “Let Public Speak, Voters Decide,” editorial, Sept. 13.

Do you know that absolute freedom is anarchy? If everyone were allowed to do as they please without regard to laws, rules or limitations, it would lead to chaos. I get very upset when I hear people cry that any limitations on their desires to speak (be it before the Thousand Oaks City Council or elsewhere) is a “violation of their Constitutional rights.” Some seem to think the 1st Amendment gives them unlimited rights to speak on any subject.

I don’t agree with a lot our mayor has to say but I have to agree with him on this issue. People addressing our city’s business meetings should not be allowed to make political speeches or to harangue or vilify elected representatives or staff, or to take up the city’s time with personal attacks. And this comment is directed against both sides of the city’s political spectrum.

Thousand Oaks has a resolution regarding Addressing the Council (resolution 96-105). I would think these rules are supposed to be adhered to. One provision of this resolution states: “Derogatory and personal remarks toward any individual are disruptive and should not be allowed. All remarks shall be addressed to the City Council as a whole, not to individual members thereof, staff or to the audience.” Why is this not enforced?

If some people want to make political speeches or protests, then go get on your soapbox, hold up your signs and placards, get your loudspeakers--but do it outside council chambers.

Mr. Mayor, do your job! Council members, insist that your rules are followed, both by the supporters of the mayor and by his detractors.

DON VOLZ

Thousand Oaks