I was present at the Flower Mound Town Hall on Thursday December 17 and participated in the debate preceding the Council vote opposing a moratorium on various gas drilling permitting issues.  While the decision was not what I requested the Council take, I was happy to participate in every Americans’ right to free speech and debate. My concern in writing is the utter lack of public decency and decorum exhibited in the audience as various speakers presented their viewpoints, and more importantly, as the Council members conducted their open discussion.  Audience members apparently could not keep themselves from comments which included routine use of vulgar insults and profanity. This type behavior does nothing to promote open discourse nor does it speak well for those who find it necessary to conduct themselves in such a manner.  I am certain this is not our last debate on issues involving the gas industry.  Further, I am certain those who originated this behavior will return, as they have been present for most previous meetings that I have viewed, attended or participated in my role on the Planning and Zoning Board.  If this issue is not addressed and specific direction provided of the consequences of such intolerant behavior, I will not fail to point these individuals out to law enforcement and request their removal from future meetings.?

- R. Jeffrey Whittaker, Flower Mound