Some Morehead residents said they don’t always feel like they have a clear picture of how their city government operates, and impactful decisions are being made without the public fully understanding their weight.
Belinda Hitch, a long-time Morehead resident, was at the most recent council meeting, representing dozens of community members. Hitch said these people are asking for more explanation on what issues are being voted on and why decisions are being made.
“We just have questions. And we are not accusing anyone of anything. I think it's a communication thing. We don't understand,” said Hitch.
Hitch said the group she represents plans to publicize coverage of Morehead City Council and the issues it votes on. Council member Edna Schack explained there’s a big learning curve when it comes to city government.
“We learn a lot in school about state government and federal government, but not a lot about municipal government. And that’s where people are every day.”
Hitch added even when items are on the meeting agenda, people don’t always understand what is being voted on or why members vote the way they do.
“Citizens, people that live in the city, just feel disconnected, I think,” said Hitch. “And maybe not knowing what the procedure is to find out more information.”
City Council member Schack said she is a call or email away for anyone who wants to talk and learn more about issues impacting the city and its residents.
“I represent the community, and if you see an agenda, just the one-page agenda, and you see something on there and you’re like, ‘what is this about?’ I’d be happy to talk with you and learn from you as well as help us learn together,” said Schack.
The Morehead City Council agendas and meetings are available on the city government Facebook page. Council members and the mayor said their email addresses and phone numbers are listed online and they welcome questions and comments from the public.