A few years ago, La Plata Electric Association eliminated the public Q&A period that once opened its monthly board meetings. In its place, the board adopted a comment-only format. While public comments are valuable, they do not serve the same purpose as public questions, and the loss of direct dialogue has reduced transparency and member engagement.
A Q&A helps members better understand board decisions, policies, expenditures and priorities. Questions often clarify issues not fully explained in reports or agenda materials. Public responses can correct misunderstandings, provide context and strengthen confidence in the board’s decision-making process.
By contrast, a comment-only format creates a one-way conversation. Members may voice concerns but receive no answers or clarification. Important questions remain unresolved, confusion persists and frustration grows. When concerns are heard but not addressed, public trust can erode.
Public questions also promote accountability. Board members are elected to represent the membership, and answering reasonable questions in a public setting demonstrates openness and respect. Community members can also identify issues, unintended consequences or missing information that may improve governance and lead to better decisions.
No one is suggesting meetings become unmanageable. Reasonable limits on time, decorum and subject matter can keep meetings productive, and questions requiring research can be answered later.
Public comments and questions serve different purposes. A healthy public meeting should provide both. Restoring a public Q&A would strengthen transparency, accountability and trust between the LPEA board and the members it serves.
Susan Atkinson
Durango