Discussions over formalizing rules of decorum for members of the board and the public, what requirements will be needed to keep chickens in the city limits and a discussion over the upcoming millage rate are all coming up this evening for the Cedartown City Commission this evening.

They’ll be meeting in person at 6 p.m. at Cedartown City Hall in the Commission meeting room to discuss these three agenda items ahead of the upcoming August 10 regular session, also happening at 6 p.m. next week in the same location.

First up on the agenda is a discussion of formalizing the rules of decorum during meetings, which will provide guidelines on how the public during presentations may interact with the City Commission and not take up too much of the board’s time to allow for debate on other matters, and how board members are to conduct themselves during meetings as well.

The ultimate goal of these rules – not yet approved – is to ensure “an atmosphere of civil and courteous discourse, even and especially when discussing contentious topics” in all meetings held by the city.

Delegations will be limited to three minutes for public comment, and speakers can direct questions to commissioners and not the public in the guidelines being formally set down, but have been in place already according to City Manager Bill Fann. Speakers will refrain from personal attacks, foul or abusive language and must maintain their composure while addressing the commission, and so too the board as well.

They are being asked in writing to ensure they conduct themselves professionally, and not speak until recognized by the chair. Those who violate the rules may be removed from meetings and the premises.

Additionally, new rules for keeping chickens within the city limits are being considered – along with an application – that would allow residents to have laying hens in appropriate areas and have their own eggs. Proposed updates to the livestock amendment could be up for a vote as soon as August 10, unless commissioners seek additional changes during tonight’s meeting.

The Commission is also looking at this year’s millage rate and how that may impact the budget, with a decision required by the board on where to set the property tax rate within the city limits for the coming year’s tax bills.