Select Board announces office hours as residents stage protest

Facing a standing-room crowd in the Salah Meeting Room and a sea of signs criticizing the actions of town leadership, the Canton Police Department, and what many believe is the unjust prosecution of an innocent woman, Select Board Chair Tom Theodore said it was his decision to suspend the public comment portion of Select Board meetings but stressed that it was only meant as a temporary measure.

Residents protest outside Town Hall on Tuesday. (CCTV photo)

The primary objective, according to Theodore, was to take a pause to “hopefully let emotions simmer down.”

“We do want to hear what you have to say,” insisted Theodore, prompting groans and laughter from the audience.

While Theodore did not give any indication when the board might reinstate the public comment period, he did announce that they would be holding office hours on Tuesday evenings during off-meeting dates.

The first session will be held next Tuesday, October 3, from 6-8 p.m. and will be open to any resident who wants to voice a complaint or concern. Theodore said the times for future office hours may vary.

Theodore also reminded residents that they can use the town website to connect with the Select Board through the Concern Portal, or they can contact the board via email at bos@town.canton.ma.us.

The decision to suspend the public comment period was announced last week and was roundly criticized, leading residents to organize a pre-meeting protest in front of Town Hall Tuesday night. (See letters on page 2 for reactions from residents.)

Prior to the meeting, a crowd of approximately 30 people stood outside Town Hall with signs criticizing the Select Board as well as the handling of the Karen Read case. At the conclusion of Tuesday’s meeting, some of the attendees loudly protested when the Select Board moved to adjourn the proceedings.

In other news from the September 26 meeting …

See this week’s Canton Citizen for more highlights from the September 26 Select Board meeting. Special fall promo for new subscribers: $30 for 1 year/$55 for 2 years. Click here to order your subscription today (discount will be automatically applied).

Short URL: https://www.thecantoncitizen.com/?p=118547

Posted by Mike Berger on Sep 28 2023. Filed under Uncategorized. Both comments and pings are currently closed.