Public Entity Silenced Citizen

I attend public meetings frequently. I go when an agenda topic interests me. I want to hear the presentation and the discussion to learn.

To clarify, a public meeting is a meeting of a board held in public, not a meeting of the public. Public comment [on meeting agenda items] is intended to inform the governing body of public opinion, not to engage in dialogue, debate, or decision making. It is a one-way communication.

“Public Comment” is an agenda item too. It is an opportunity for members of the public to speak [to the board] on any subject within the board purview, but not on the agenda.

Two public meetings happen monthly here in Bonita:

1. [California Special District] Bonita - Sunnyside Fire Protection District

2. [County of San Diego] Sweetwater Community Planning Group

I have attended both meetings on multiple occasions. At one public entity, I am welcomed. At the other, I am not.

How did that happen? I opened my mouth.

I participated in their meeting with public comment. I did not speak until I was recognized by the Chair. I was respectful with my remarks. I was succinct and stayed within my allowable three minutes. I handed a hardcopy of the words I’d spoken [during public comment] to the Secretary.

Yet, I apparently said things that those in power did not like.

So, the public meeting record** does not mention my public comment.

Let that be a lesson to all.

L-R: 12.02.25 Sweetwater Community Planning Group - Minutes page 1 | Minutes page 2 | Public Comment page 1 | Public Comment page 2 | Click on images to enlarge

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**A public meeting record is an official, disclosable document or recording that captures the actions, decisions, and proceedings of a government body, including meeting minutes, agendas, reports, and audio/video recordings. These documents are considered public records, often required by laws like the Ralph M. Brown Act in California, and serve as an official record of transparency and accountability.—[AI]

By Karen Henry | February 22, 2026

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