Civility defines new chapter in Southport: Hatem’s unofficial win and board’s public comment policy
SOUTHPORT, NC (WWAY-TV) – Former Southport Mayor Joe Pat Hatem is celebrating a big win after defeating incumbent Rich Alt after his campaign rode on a promise to bring civility back to the city government.
Just one day before Hatem was voted in unofficially, the board of aldermen passed a new public comment policy to address the same issue with residents.
Both the city board and Hatem said the meetings have seen a shift.
“If anyone has seen the board of aldermen meetings over the last two years there is this disconnect, this divisiveness and a rudeness not only towards each other but to people who come and speak in front of the board,” Hatem said.
The new policy passed with a 5-1 vote.
“I don’t want people coming in here and airing their dirty laundry between them and their neighbors in a board of aldermen meeting when in many cases, it doesn’t affect us,” said alderman Robbert Carroll.
Board member Lowe Davis rejected the motion and requested the vote held off till the next meeting to allow for additional public comment on the policy.
“We did not take public comment on this, interestingly, it’s a public comment policy, but we have not alerted the public officially,” Davis said.
While the policy does not contradict current requirements for public comments, it does address a need for ‘decorum’ or modesty from the public. Mayor Pro Tem, Rebecca Kelley requested they address other disruptions in the policy including aerosol spray.
“I would also ask if we can add something where people are not allowed to use scenting or loud noises,” Kelley said.
After Hatem was unofficially elected as mayor he wants to meet with city officials and bring unity.
“I will meet with the city manager, I will meet with each individual department head and then I’ll meet with each elected official and we will find common ground on how we move in the best way forward.”
Hatem also adds that while he was in office he removed a three minute constraint on public comments, the new policy does not remove that protocol.
