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Contact: Patricia Smith Fisheries Commission to Launch a New Q&A Session at Raleigh Meeting MOREHEAD CITY – The N.C. Marine Fisheries Commission will start a new question and answer format at a public meeting at 6 p.m. May 12 at the Clarion Hotel State Capital, 320 Hillsborough St., Raleigh. The new format comes in response to public requests to change the way the commission takes public comment at the beginning of its quarterly business meetings. “The fishermen who asked for this change believe that allowing dialogue between the public and commission members will increase their understanding of the issues,” said commission Chairman Rob Bizzell. “I wanted to grant this request as I believe it is imperative the commission conducts its business in a way that is transparent and open to the public.” At the beginning of the Wednesday night public meeting, the commission will hold its traditional comment period, where people voice their concerns over fisheries-related issues. In addition, those who speak may ask questions that will be addressed after the public comment period ends by appropriate commission members or Division of Marine Fisheries staff. Comments and questions will also be accepted in writing. The commission will continue to hold its traditional comment period the morning of the first full day of the business meeting, and may also accept a limited number of questions, time permitting. The business meeting sessions begin at 9 a.m. May 13 and 8:30 a.m. May 14. |