Conroe Mayor Duke Coon criticized the city council's decision to tighten public comment rules, apologizing for a lack of transparency and calling for significant changes to city hall operations.
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During a heated Tuesday meeting, Conway Mayor Duke Coon ran afoul of city council members over newly enforced limitations on public remarks, therefore undermining openness. The revised guidelines restrict the number of speakers per issue at three and limit citizens to speaking just on agenda topics. With a 3-1 vote, the council approved the changes despite opposition from citizens and Mayor Pro Tem Harry Hardman, therefore applicable for the 2024–2026 period.
"I refuse to stand by one more day and let these kinds of things continue," Coon stated. Today I am advocating complete openness. Actually, I demand it—not advocating for it.
Residents could address any subject before giving agenda-related comments primary attention. Critics contend the changes silence community voices and undermine confidence. Respected resident John Sellers voiced dismay, stressing residents' rights to voice opinions on more general community concerns.
The lone dissenting vote, Mayor Pro Tem Hardman, declared, "You people have rights to be heard... I object to the phrasing of the resolution.
Coon suggested that all upcoming agenda items be evaluated in public workshops and offered a "code of integrity and transparency" for council adoption. Declaring, "Fine me $1,500 every time I don't enforce it," the mayor also promised not to follow the new restrictions.
Although the council kept current speaking times—three minutes per person and thirty minutes overall—residents continue to be unhappy of the more emphasis on agenda issues and the absence of direct council replies to public comments.
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