HomeMy WebLinkAbout01-13-26 Public Comment - M. Bateson - Priorities - Meeting times and typeFrom:Mary Bateson
To:Bozeman Public Comment; Joey Morrison; Douglas Fischer; Jennifer Madgic; Emma Bode; Alison Sweeney;Chuck Winn
Subject:[EXTERNAL]Priorities - Meeting times and type
Date:Monday, January 12, 2026 4:17:14 PM
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01/12/2026
Dear Mayor Joey Morrison, Deputy Mayor Douglas Fisher, Commissioners Emma Bode,
Jennifer Madgic and Alison Sweeney, and City Manager Chuck Winn,
I attended the Jan 12, 2026 City Commission discussion of priorities for the coming year, and
listened with interest while you discussed the issues of time and length of the City Commission
meetings. I understand the quandary concerning time of day. There also seems to be a
desire to have more “Work Session” meetings where the focus is discussion, and action is not
taken. I do believe that the “Action” that the commission needs to be able to complete is
greater than could happen if the commission only meets every other week in that capacity.
You might be looking forward to meetings that last over 8 hours for each session. No matter
the time of day, that timing would stress even the sharpest mind. I would rather not have my
commissioners incapacitated in that way while they make decisions that affect the whole city.
So, I suggest “Action” meetings continue weekly. If “Work Session” meetings would also be
advantageous, great, do them as well, also weekly or as needed.
One possibility if you wish to conduct both types of meeting regularly, is that you alternate
when each type of meeting is held. You could conduct meetings from 2 pm until 5 pm weekly
(or 9 am to 1 pm), then 6 pm til 10 pm weekly (not sure if that would be on the same day).
One week, have the “Action” meeting in the AM or early PM, then the “Work Session”
meeting at 6 pm. The next week the type of meeting would reverse: Action in the AM or early
PM, Work Session at 6 PM. May be a bit confusing at first, but you could “catch” more
people.
I just offer this as a suggestion. (I can just hear the possible reactions: “Shoot me now!”) For
me, I have the luxury of a free schedule, so whatever you decide, I will participate as my
energy allows.
Thank you for your service!
Mary Bateson
427 N Tracy Ave. Bozeman, MT