Polk County commissioners amended the county’s policy for placing items on the agenda after concerns were raised over a recent agenda item that did not include a description of the topic.
Commissioners approved Monday, June 20 amending the policy to require a description accompanying any item placed on the agenda. Another amendment says in order to discuss an issue, a motion and a second must be made.
Commissioners also agreed to adhere to the policy, including other policies that are not always followed, such as not adding items to the agenda except in emergencies or for time-sensitive issues.
The policy was changed after concerns were expressed during the county’s June 6 meeting when an item was placed on the agenda by commissioner Ted Owens stating, “recreation department.” Several residents attended the meeting to offer comments even though the item was taken off the agenda at the beginning of the meeting because the issue had already been settled.
Owens said he placed the item on the agenda with no details because he did not know all the information before the deadline for placing items on the agenda. Commissioner Cindy Walker suggested the change in policy during the June 6 meeting.
Owens suggested adding the policy of needing a motion and second in order to discuss an item. He said even if a commissioner makes a motion or second, it doesn’t mean that commissioner has to vote for the item, just that it is on the floor for discussion.
“I think it will make us a little more efficient,” said Owens.
Commissioner Tom Pack said he is concerned that the board doesn’t always follow the current eight items listed on the procedures.
“If we’re going to put it in here, let’s follow it,” said Pack.