The public’s right in a democracy is the ability to speak its opinions to its elected officials. The Lansing City Council has upheld this right, contrary to the complaints of some residents.

The council voted Monday night to shorten the amount of time the public has to speak during meetings, which are broadcast on a local cable channel.

The decision came in hopes of ending the overzealous presentations of some regular attendants of the meetings who sometimes insult officials or, as some council members claim, take advantage of time in front of the camera.

The city council considered completely removing public comments from the cable broadcast. But many residents aren’t capable of attending the meetings, and the television version is their only way of being aware of the issues addressed at the meeting.

Instead, the council voted to limit citizens to three minutes during public comments rather than six. The decision will be re-evaluated in six months.

In a democracy, it is important for citizens to be able to make their voices heard. Three minutes may not be a huge amount of time, but it is sufficient for people to get their point across.

If residents come to meetings prepared with the points they want to make, and the concerns they want to address, three minutes should be enough, and the meetings should be run more efficiently.

It’s unfortunate that a few residents tossing out insults and wasting the public’s time have limited time for citizens with legitimate concerns.

It is the council’s job to make sure the public feels welcome at meetings. The group of disrespectful citizens who were harassing the officials also were scaring away other residents from attending meetings.

If a citizen disagrees with a city official, he or she should say it in a rational, respectful manner. Personal insults do not benefit anyone, nor do they accomplish changes.

Free speech guarantees the right to complain about government and to have differing opinions with elected officials. But showing a lack of consideration and manners just isn’t necessary.

Lansing residents can still make their voices heard. They are just going to have to be responsible with their limited amount of time, and prove to the city council that they deserve more.