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Far too often in recent years, St. Clairsville City Council meetings have been allowed to dissolve into chaos.
The most recent example came last week, when discussion turned to the possibility that information that should remain confidential is being leaked to the public. First Councilman Frank Sabatino voted against going behind closed doors to discuss "pending or imminent court action" related to annexing two 5-acre tracts of land. Councilwoman Terra Butler then broached the subject of information from such sessions being revealed.
"If we are following the charter, all information discussed in executive session is to stay in executive session," she said. "I think there needs to be an investigation ... because we owe the voters."
She is right about that, but residents are not getting what they deserve from personal attacks, shouting, name calling and meetings that suffer from a lack of decorum.
Last week's meeting is the perfect example. Councilman Perry Basile alleged that resident Bill Brooks made social media posts that include details discussed only behind closed doors, leading to a confrontation with Brooks. "You're a liar," Brooks responded to Basile before hurling insults at a couple of council members.
Brooks, who has announced on social media that he may seek election to a council seat and who previously sought to become mayor, was then asked to leave the meeting and complied.
To his credit, council President Jim Velas banged his gavel during the exchange and called for order.
That is something that is sorely needed at these council meetings -- and something that members of the public and council must restore.
Council can't allow outbursts like this to cause distractions at public meetings. Elected officials should know better.
While it is good that city leaders and residents are passionate about the issues at hand, uncontrolled outbursts accomplish nothing.
St. Clairsville council members should review and adhere to Robert's Rules of Order and ensure that future meetings are conducted accordingly. That is the best way for them to serve their constituents as they were elected to do.