Hinsdale D-86 Official Rejects Own Compromise

BURR RIDGE, IL – A member of the Hinsdale High School District 86 board proposed a compromise two weeks ago on how much public comment to allow at meetings.

But on Thursday, he was among those voting against his own proposal.

Earlier this month, board members differed over whether to keep the existing 30-minute time limit for public comment near the beginning of meetings or have no limit at all.

Member Jeff Waters proposed a 45-minute limit as a compromise. Some of his colleagues agreed.

At Thursday's meeting, members Cynthia Hanson and Debbie Levinthal credited Waters for the compromise.

Levinthal, however, stuck with her original position that no limit should be imposed. With all the proposals, each person would get three minutes to speak.

Levinthal said that when people come to meetings, they should know they will get a chance to speak.

Board President Erik Held noted the board also gives a chance for public comment at the end of meetings.

But Levinthal said young families may be unable to sit through three hours of a meeting to finally get a chance to speak.

"Or five hours," Waters added.

The board voted 4-3 for the 45-minute time limit. Members voted along their usual lines – Held, Hanson, Terri Walker and Kathleen Hirsman in favor and Waters, Levinthal and Peggy James against.

Patch asked Waters on Friday why he voted against his compromise proposal.

"I indeed drove the compromise at the prior meeting to increase from 30 minutes, which seemed certain to get approved before I suggested a compromise of 45," Waters said in a text message. "Last night, I was compelled by Debbie’s more than sensible plea as it relates to accommodating young families who may not have bandwidth to wait until the end of what can often be a lengthy Board meeting for the second public participation opportunity. This extension of grace, per Debbie’s proposal for unlimited time, sends a signal to the community that the Board wants to hear from you and values your time."