(FARGO, ND) – Residents in Fargo may continue to have a way to join the Fargo City Commission meeting virtually and through a call-in process.
On Monday night, the Commission voted 3-2 to advance the discussion regarding virtual and call-in participation in public comment to the city’s Governance Committee. Deputy Mayor and Commissioner Denise Kolpack requested the move to committee.
Commissioner Michelle Turnberg said the process of virtual and call-in participation was initiated due to the COVID-19 pandemic. She said the commission values feedback from the community and welcomes them to come to commission meetings.
“I think calling in is just a lazy way of avoiding the meetings,” she said.
KJ Atkinson expressed her frustration to the topic.
“I’m frustrated this isn’t the first time folks are having to come out and ask you all not to steal away people’s opportunity to be heard,” she said in the public comment portion of the agenda item. “The concept of removing the option for folks to call in, under the pretense of COVID not being around anymore is rather ridiculous when you break it down.”
Andrew Nelson, a Fargo resident, encouraged commissioners to continue offering virtual and call-in participation.
“Many of our residents aren’t lazy. They’re busy working 9-to-5 jobs, evening shifts or overnights,” he said. “Some people face mobility challenges or health concerns that limit their ability to attend meetings in person.
