A city meeting in Dickinson erupted Tuesday night when a known out-of-town agitator refused to give up the podium during a public comment opportunity, prompting his removal by police. Ryan Messano, who’s gained a reputation for inflammatory remarks targeting women and minority groups, escalated tensions by invoking the Second Amendment during a heated exchange with Mayor Scott Decker. The disruption came as the commission considered a new public comment policy. Messano’s repeated appearances have sparked growing frustration in Dickinson—and raised broader questions about the limits of public discourse.
James B. Miller, Jr. with the Dickinson Press has the full story.
Editor’s Note: Meanwhile at the legislature, lawmakers passed a bill making it mandatory that local governing boards provide a public comment period at meetings. And another leg of local control — Chairperson discretion in leading meetings — is kicked away by government on high in Bismarck.
SB 2180
A BILL for an Act to amend and reenact section 44-04-19 of the North Dakota Century Code, relating to the opportunity to provide public comment at a meeting of a public entity.
House Sponsors: D. Johnston (R, District 24), Louser (R, District 5), D. Ruby (R, District 38),
Senate Sponsors: Paulson (R, District 3), Luick (R, District 25), Weston (R, District 15),
