No matter how hot the topic, etiquette should be followed at local government meetings. Both the board and those giving testimony need to give consideration to the other for a debated issue.

There is no blanket statement to say how a meeting should be run, but there are some basic courtesies that should be extended.

Each meeting takes on its own dynamics, depending upon the issues, the parties involved and even board members.

The board should offer the people who elected them a chance to speak. A matter that cannot be resolved by staff to that party's satisfaction deserves to come before the board at least once as an agenda item.

There is plenty of business to run in a public meeting, so it is the board's discretion how long a presentation will be and how much testimony a topic receives.

However, a matter should not be struck or omitted from an agenda just because it is perceived as a nuisance.

There are times when one topic runs too long or testimony becomes repetitive. The board may vote on it or table the matter to move to other business.

When enough information and testimony is gathered - it could be minutes, hours, weeks or months - the board will determine when to vote on the matter.

Those giving testimony should identify themselves, their intent and the topic they are addressing clearly before the board.

Audience members should not mutter allegations incoherently in the back of the room. It serves no purpose and makes it difficult for the board to respond.

Come to the podium, give your name, state your question/comment and provide data to support your claim.

Be ready to interact with the board and respond to their questions and comments. Do your homework with staff and your own research to back up your statements.

If you disagree as a member of the public, restate your intent with clear and accurate information that gives your point of view.

Passion over a topic is acceptable, but emotional allegations that have no information to validate them are unnecessary.

Grandstanding should be avoided from both sides of the table. Technicalities should not be used to harass a board if the issue does not go in your favor. Make your point and continue the discussion as evenly as you can.

Ultimately, the board decides whether to vote, when to vote and how to vote on a matter.

Local government bodies still give us the most democratic form of government without the bureaucracy of federal and even state levels. Decisions made by these boards impact us for decades, even generations to come.

For the most part, you can still call a board member or pull one aside and let them know how you stand.

The beauty of the local democracy is if you are not satisfied, you can vote for someone else at the next election. And every vote counts. Elections have been won by fewer than 10 votes in some cases. Consider that the next time you fail to show up at the polls.

If you are truly discontent, you can run for office yourself. But be prepared to face the mix of personalities and experiences that makes each board unique.

In extreme cases, there is the option of an initiated measure or recalling a board. These should not be done lightly, as special elections are costly to taxpayers.

Local government board matters can prove a healthy decision process for all. Everyone needs to be able to speak and to listen.

(Reach reporter LeAnn Eckroth at 250-8264 or leann.eckroth@;bismarcktribune.com.)