San Jose Aims to Cut Length of Council Meetings

from National Public Radio

San Jose City Council is considering reducing the number of commendations on the council's agenda in hopes of shortening its marathon meetings.

At one recent meeting, there were official expressions of thanks and praise for: a deceased community worker; a deceased campaign activist; and the son of municipal employees who died in a motorcycle accident. There was a declaration of Pollution Prevention Week. There was recognition for the managers of the city's trail systems. There was a message reminding folks about National POW-MIA Recognition Day, and about the forthcoming International Day of Peace.

No doubt each of the announcements had great merit, but they claim a lot of time — prompting the proposal to limit them.

Dave Cortese, the vice mayor of San Jose, Calif., talks with Robert Siegel.

Broadcast Dates

• All Things Considered, October 3, 2007