The current Durango School District 9-R board has stooped to a new low. They were discussing banning community members from communicating to the board during the Sept. 28 public board meeting. Board president Kristen Smith was offended by a speaker’s speech, which included a bible verse. The speaker was cut off before time expired. Smith ended public participation for the evening, with others still on the docket to speak.
Could the board be violating sunshine laws, and much more, by not having public in-person meetings?
Since August, only board members and their invited guests can attend. The community must watch meetings from the corner over livestream in a dark room. The PA system gives buzzing feedback. Ninety percent of the board and guests’ backs are to the camera. You can’t tell who is in the room and can’t hear or see who is speaking with the gargling of the masks. Public speakers must give 24 hours notice to speak, have only 3 minutes, get zero feedback from the board and must speak over Zoom. However, Bayfield allows in-person, same day sign-up and gives extra time. Livestreaming includes mics, split screen of the speakers, board and panoramic view of the audience.
Durango’s board is censoring free speech because community members don’t agree with them. The Durango community should be outraged at these draconian tactics. These elected officials are having meetings behind closed doors, with intent to deceive.
Durango needs a new board. Vote this October!
Cam Formby
Durango
