Civility is Now a Resolution

It was a curious addition to Tuesday night's Common Council addition, and it may have raised a few eyebrows.

"Resolution Promoting Civil Public Discourse" is listed among the other items, and it is basically an official reminder for everyone to play nice amid all of the whereas's.

"Municipal officials play an important role in shaping public behavior as
community leaders and, therefore, have a special opportunity to help steer public discourse in a more civil direction," the resolution reads. It also includes the public, media entities and other advocacy organizations in its stern reminder.

Calling to mind our own local turmoil over a park on the lake, it seemed this was a response to that, or in light of the or the changes. However, Mayor Kathy Chiaverotti said the resolution was in response to a request of the League of Wisconsin Municipalities (LWM). The organization serves as a voice for Wisconsin cities as a lobbying organization and legal resource.

"The LWM passed a resolution last year and sent a letter requesting that municipalities adopt this resolution. This is due to the discourse throughout the state," she explained.

Given the past recall election, and another presidential election looming in November, the timing seems to be right. In addition, this is the last time the council will meet before the state's partisan primary election on August 15.

Whether the resolution will have any lasting impact on public discourse remains to be seen.