Insults, name-calling and anger: Eagle just added rules to tamp down public hearing chaos

The Eagle City Council passed an ordinance that outlines a new code of ethics and civility rules after some recent council meetings devolved into insults and name-calling.

Eagle City Hall has seen plenty of contentious battles over the last year — including during last year’s divisive election fight between former Mayor Jason Pierce and Mayor Brad Pike that saw both take potshots at each other over issues including growth, development and who was the more conservative candidate.

Public hearings have also gotten heated at times, such as during debate over the annexation of the giant Avimor planned community last year. Before Avimor was approved, members of the public packed council chambers with signs opposed to the annexation. Some hearings stretched as long as six hours .

The new ordinance approved Tuesday, July 9, bans signs, stamping of feet and disruptive or threatening behavior, including insulting, demeaning, intimidating or offensive remarks towards city staff, elected officials or other members of the public.

During a public meeting, members of the public are prohibited from “disorderly or boisterous conduct, including the utterance of loud, threatening or abusive language, whistling, speaking out of turn, applause or clapping (when not led by the presiding officer),” according to the ordinance.

Dana Biberston, spokesperson for the city of Eagle, said that it’s important for people’s feelings and voices to be heard, but in a civil and respectful environment.

“The elected officials are looking to promote mutual respect,” Biberston said. “We want to maintain that balance between freedom of speech and that ability to express their opinions.”

Violators will be warned first and asked to cease their conduct. If this is ignored, they will be asked to leave the meeting. If this is refused, they may be removed by law enforcement and charged with trespassing, according to the ordinance.Anyone given a notice of trespassing could be barred from City Hall or other city-owned properties for up to 12 months, although they could still attend online.

Those who resist removal or an order to leave could be charged with a misdemeanor for trespassing, which can carry a penalty of up to six months in jail and up to a $1,000 fine.

It’s common for cities to have civility rules similar to this, Biberston said, and the ordinance brings Eagle up to date.

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