Dear Editor,
Early in 2024, as a concerned citizen I introduced the idea of a Kingman Town Hall meeting, a forum where the public could bring up a topic addressing individual members of the City Council and have a two-way conversation without the formalities or legalities of a regular City Council meeting.
I jumped through more than a few bureaucratic hoops formally requesting the city put the topic of a Town Hall meeting on the agenda – and was declined in writing. Many weeks later unannounced and without public notice something changed and the subject was conceptionally discussed just prior to concluding the June 4, 2024 City Council meeting.
At this point, the topic remains open, no date, location, time, or agenda has been determined. Unfortunately, under the cover of State statutes, the city’s idea of open discussion is an agenda of their creation and WITHOUT topics the public would insist upon had they been polled. To her credit, Council-woman Jamie Scott Stehly was the only one to advocate what she believed the people wanted rather than the strict rules being laid down. Although the city did propose a list of about 12 major city issues, no discussion will be allowed on anything other than their agenda.
On the one hand, I thank the City Council for finally putting the topic on the agenda. On the other hand, I am woefully disappointed the guidelines have FALLEN far short of subjects the people really want discussed. Without saying the city is being disingenuous, I can’t help but wonder if there is a fear of the people’s direct questions, thoughts and opinions?
The quest for the will and the word of the people in a public forum will remain foremost for a better Kingman. It is frustrating but at this time OUR Town Hall is on the Free Fall.
Elliot Chalew
Candidate Kingman City Council
