BRENHAM CITY COUNCIL TO MOVE MEETING TIMES TO 3:30 P.M.
The new members of the Brenham City Council got right to work today (Thursday) by discussing—and agreeing to—a change in time for future meetings.
After a work session, councilmembers opted to move the time of future meetings on Thursdays from 1 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. As the decision was made in work session, it will not be made effective until the council takes official action on it at its meeting May 20th.
City Secretary Jeana Bellinger explained that, per the city charter, the council is required to meet at least once per month, and it has met at least twice a month since the 1980’s. Prior to 2009, the council held all regular meetings at 5:15 p.m.
Brenham Mayor Milton Tate said there was not much of a difference in public attendance between the 1 p.m. and 5:15 p.m. meetings. Councilmember Albert Wright said a change would have negative and positive effects, and that no matter what time is chosen, it will not be perfect for everyone.
Wright’s statement was echoed by City Manager James Fisher, who added that citizens typically find a way to attend the meetings whenever they are concerned about an agenda item.
Councilmember Atwood Kenjura expressed his approval for a 5 p.m. meeting time, saying it would be more convenient for people who are employed, including the people on the council. Meanwhile, Councilmember Clint Kolby said he would prefer meetings to remain during business hours, while Councilmember Leah Cook said meeting in the middle of the day is difficult.
Councilmember Adonna Saunders said she is fine with the current time of 1 p.m., but she is also willing to try something different. Councilmember Shannan Canales said she is wanting to try out more afternoon meetings to see how community involvement is affected.