CORTLAND, NY (607NewsNow) – A lawmaker would like to update Cortland County’s rules concerning privilege of the floor at legislative meetings.

The county’s current policy limits public speaking to topics that appear on a meeting agenda.

Legislator Reed Cleland is working on a new plan that would allow attendees to discuss any topic they see fit. Under Cleland’s proposal, attendees would gain another opportunity to speak on any issue. Cleland, who represents District 10, is pitching a second privilege of the floor session at the end of meetings after the legislature or committee finishes the items on the agenda.

“Ultimately, I think it’s important that if you take the time out of your day to come to one of our once-a-month evening meetings, you should be able to talk to us about whatever concerns are on your mind,” said Legislator Cleland. “That is our responsibility as county legislators.”

Cleland adds a similar policy was recently adopted in the Town of Preble. He has submitted a draft resolution for review and is hopeful it will be considered next month.