Council comments

Cape Girardeau is among many cities across the country that provides public access to council meetings through live video on cable-TV systems and other electronic access. And Cape Girardeau isn't the first city to deal with grandstanding members of the public who like to be on TV to discuss items that aren't on the council's agenda.

Before this turns into a bigger problem, Mayor Harry Rediger is offering members of the public opportunities to comment on random topics to the council during its study sessions. The council's study sessions are at 5 p.m. before the regular council meetings at 7 p.m. on the first and third Mondays of each month. Because the first Monday in September also is Labor Day, the council will meet at 5 and 7 p.m. Tuesday at city hall.

Comments during the regular council meeting, which is televised, will be limited to agenda items. The mayor said he hopes this change will improve the process of conducting city business.

However, the mayor is open to changes in this new policy if warranted. Anyone with strong feelings about public comments to the city council should contact a council member or the mayor.