BOULDER – The Colorado Oil & Gas Conservation Commission has changed its public comment rules in response to an increase in participation at meetings.
The Daily Camera reports that a message posted Jan. 22 on the commission’s website says the change was made to maximize limited hearing time and balance “regulatory obligations.” Public comment at meetings will now be restricted to two hours, with elected officials receiving priority.
Commissioners are encouraging residents to sign up online to speak, but walk-ins will be allowed to speak as time permits.
Broomfield resident Judy Kelly says she’s urging residents to not let the change silence them. She says it’s “interesting” that commissioners “are making it more difficult to voice” opinions at a time when oil and gas development is encroaching on homes.
