By JIM BUTLER

Dr. Stephen Chapman proposes that the School Board adopt formal rules governing how long members can speak after recognition from the chair.

Currently that is Chapman. As board president he supervises discussion that sometimes must seem like herding cats.

The agenda for today’s monthly meeting includes his proposal to limit members’ discourse yet provide an adequate forum. 

Chapman suggests each board member be allowed three minutes to speak or ask questions on a topic.

After all board members wishing to have had a turn to address the topic a board member would be allowed an additional three minutes if desired.

The board, like most public bodies, limits public comment time at its meetings.

Some also have member limits.

The Louisiana House, for example, limits members to 15 minutes, or less if the Speaker imposes such on a particular debate.

The state Senate has one-hour limit unless otherwise agreed to.