As Austin protests continue, hundreds take their voices to City Hall
Austin City Council members are preparing to hear public comments from hundreds of people who signed up to speak at a special-called meeting to discuss police tactics and policies in the wake of protests that erupted in Austin over the weekend.
Thursday’s meeting initially was called as a briefing from law enforcement officials on the protests, but after more than 300 people signed up to weigh in on police issues, the council opted instead to hear public testimony starting Thursday afternoon.
City staff said a total of 330 people signed up to speak, the first 20 of whom will get three minutes to make their remarks. After that, those remaining will each have one minute to speak. Public comments could take more than 6 hours and go well into the night. Normally. speakers have been allowed to cede time to others when they run out. However, since council meetings have been held virtually to prevent the spread of the coronavirus, sharing time has not been allowed.
The briefing has been reset to 9 a.m. Friday. While council will discuss the protests and action of the police department, they will not take any action or votes on the issue.
Another protest in front of Austin Police Headquarters at Interstate 35 and 7th Street is scheduled for Thursday night, led by the Mike Ramos Brigade, which has organized previous protests in the city.
Read more: https://www.statesman.com/news/20200604/as-austin-protests-continue-hundreds-take-their-voices-to-city-hall
