But speakers must sign up before meeting begins —

Seating capacity remains reduced for Sept. 27 meeting, the Fayette County Board of Education alerted the public last week.

That distancing requirement resulted in a crowd of parents having to wait outside at a recent meeting of the board. Those who got inside and signed up were given 3 minutes each to speak to the board. The 3 dozen-plus public comments lasted well over an hour.

For Monday’s meeting at 7 p.m., speakers must show up before the scheduled meeting and sign up, then wait — inside or outside — until the board dispenses with the regular agenda.

Here’s the statement from the Fayette County School System:

“In order to protect the health of persons attending the Fayette County Board of Education meeting on September 27 at 7 p.m., available public seating will again be limited. 

“As the spread of Covid-19 is still high in our community, the school system is taking this protective measure to mitigate the spread of the virus. Seats will be available on a first come, first served basis.

“Additionally, public comments have been moved toward the end of the meeting agenda. Anyone wishing to speak must sign up between 6:30-7:00 p.m. the evening of the meeting.

“A table with a sign-up sheet will be located outside the entrance of the Board of Education building. If you wish to speak about a specific agenda item, you will have the opportunity to indicate that on the sign-up sheet. Public comments are welcomed and encouraged.

“Board meetings take place in the boardroom of the Fayette County Board of Education located at 205 LaFayette Avenue, Building A, Fayetteville, GA.”