FREE ACCESS Linton’s Public Comment Policy Could Cost Taxpayers $100K — and Your Right to Speak Freely

Adam

08 Aug 2025 — 3 min read

Linton friends and neighbors,

I want to take a few moments to share something important that affects all of us who care about transparency, accountability, and the right to be heard in our own local government.

Right now, the City of Linton has a public comment policy in place that—whether intentionally or not—violates the First Amendment. It prohibits “personal attacks,” “undue repetition,” and speech labeled as “obscene.” On paper, that may sound like a way to keep things orderly. But in practice, policies like this have been used across the country to silence dissent, shut down criticism, and prevent everyday people from addressing real concerns—especially when those concerns are directed at public officials.

I recently met with Mayor Preble about this issue, and I want to say up front, I appreciate his time and his willingness to listen. He was respectful, open to the conversation, and even expressed interest in revisiting the policy. That matters. It's not every day you bring a constitutional issue to a mayor and get a thoughtful response, and I’m grateful for that.

But here’s the truth: If this policy isn’t changed, it could end up costing our city tens of thousands—if not over $100,000—in legal fees if challenged in court. And that’s not speculation—other cities have been sued over nearly identical policies and lost.

This is about more than money though. It’s about the right of the people to speak freely, to voice concerns, and to challenge those in power without fear of being silenced. The First Amendment protects even the uncomfortable, the emotional, and the critical—because that's the only way a free society stays free.

That’s why I’m also asking alongside my request that the city removes this unconstitutional policy, that all city employees and council members receive First Amendment training. Not to call anyone out, not to play politics, but to ensure that going forward, no one’s rights are unintentionally trampled. Understanding the Constitution isn't just for lawyers—it's for anyone in public service.

Finally, I’m asking you—the people of Linton—to get involved. Come to the City Council meeting on Monday, August 11 at 6:00 p.m. at City Hall. I’ll be there to speak publicly about this policy and why it needs to change, and I’d love to have your support.

If you can’t make it, consider calling or emailing your council members. Your voice matters. When we stay silent, these kinds of policies can slip by unnoticed. But when we speak up—respectfully and firmly—we remind our leaders that they work for us and our voice matters.

Thanks for reading, and thanks for caring about the future of our city.

City Council Members: