In response to the events of council’s March 5 meeting, Councilwoman Grace Crampsie Smith introduced a controversial resolution, amending the public comments into different sections on the agenda.

With a vote on the table to restrict public comments to Bethlehem residents and taxpayers at the start of the meeting, over 30 people pleaded their cases on both sides of the issue May 7.

Under the proposed resolution, nonresidents and nontaxpayers would be allowed to voice their views solely on nonvoting matters, and at the end of the meeting.

Resident Mary Joe Makhoul expressed concerns about city business not being properly addressed, citing, “I want the city to respond to the issues of the city.”

Others raised their rights to free speech.

Lehigh County Commissioner Jon Irons told council he felt the resolution was reactionary. “I would urge you to take stalk of what happened at that meeting and understand that was democracy in action. And that was a good thing.”

Irons added council should respond to them with, “what can we do for you?”

In addressing the public, Councilwoman Grace Crampsie Smith said, “In my mind, the question is are we, as city councilors, able to prioritize city business and operations via the passage of this resolution.”

Councilman Bryan Callahan agreed with her, noting although he supports free speech, city business must be addressed without disruption at council.

Councilwoman Rachel Leon took a different approach to the issue.

Before the vote, she told everyone who spoke about Gaza and this resolution, “I hope you always feel safe to come into council and say what you need to say, because it’s a privilege and honor to hear you and to see.”

The resolution was defeated by a 5-2 vote.

After the vote, a city council member told The Press numerous emails were received by council members, most saying public comment is a vital part of democracy.