A Norwegian Township man wants the Schuylkill County commissioners to make it easier for disabled people to take part in public meetings.

Chris Melusky spoke at a public commissioners meeting on April 1, citing the “need for a defined and accessible policy that allows individuals with disabilities to fully participate in public comment, especially remotely.”

“Does Schuylkill County have any formal policy that allows individuals with disabilities to provide public comment?” he asked. “If so, where is it, and what does it include? Does it allow for remote participation, such as phone, email or written submission?

“If that policy does not exist, it should. And if it does exist, it should be clearly communicated and easily accessible to the public.”

Melusky also mentioned the poor sound quality of the county’s livestream option, which allows people to hear, but not participate in, public commissioners meetings. The YouTube livestream is available on the county website at https://schuylkillcountypa.gov/government/commissioners/meeting_livestream.php.

“The audio is often unclear and at times difficult to understand,” Melusky said. “That’s unacceptable in 2026. … Upgrading the equipment and providing a good quality broadcast is essential … for transparency and public engagement.”

Commissioners Chairman Larry L. Padora responded, “We’ll look into it.”

Melusky also said he was concerned about a “lack of transparent standardized policy for appointing members to county boards.”

He noted “boards such as zoning boards and tax appeals make decisions that directly affect property values, land use and tax fairness across the county.”

“These are not minor roles; they carry significant authority and impact every resident of the county,” Melusky said. “Because of that, the purpose for appointing individuals to these boards must be transparent, open and consistent. Appointments should be publicly advertised. Letters of interest should be accepted from qualified residents, Selections should be based on qualifications and not political affiliation, donor status or personal relationships.

“That is how you build public trust, and be sure these boards reflect the full community.”

He gave as an example a person who serves on both the zoning and tax appeals boards.

“It creates the potential for conflict,” Melusky said. “The overlap undermines independence and raises legitimate questions about impartiality. This is not about criticizing any current appointees; this is about improving the process moving forward and opening the door for more qualified residents to participate.”

The commissioners did not respond further.