Public Comment Changes, ICE Agreement Headline Tonight’s Winfield Meeting

Winfield, Mo. — Public comment rules, a proposed ICE partnership agreement, and the appointment of a new alderman are expected to draw attention during Thursday night’s Winfield Board of Aldermen meeting.

One of the most discussed items on the agenda is a proposed amendment to the city’s public comment ordinance. The proposal would modify Section 30.25 of the city code, which governs public comments and the manner in which residents address the Mayor and Board of Aldermen.

Questions surrounding the ordinance surfaced Thursday morning after residents noticed public comment was not listed on the published agenda despite the current ordinance providing opportunities for residents to address the board on both agenda and non-agenda items.

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Lincoln CountyWatch contacted Mayor Nicole Hanson regarding the omission.

“My clerk made an error and it was already posted. But yes there will be public comment. I will make an addition before the meeting to add it,” Hanson said.

When asked what changes are being proposed, Hanson said she was not providing additional details at this time because the ordinance remains in draft form.

The issue of public comment is not new in Winfield.

Public comment was removed from meeting agendas in late 2025, with city officials at the time citing concerns involving threats and disruptions surrounding meetings. The issue later drew additional attention following several controversial meetings and public disputes involving city government.

Earlier this year, Lincoln CountyWatch reviewed the city’s ordinance and contacted city officials seeking clarification regarding public comment requirements. Public comment later returned to meeting agendas under the current ordinance.

Questions were raised again last month after the only individual listed under public comment on a meeting agenda was removed prior to the meeting taking place.

Debbie Rubottom was the only individual listed under public comment on a previous Winfield Board of Aldermen agenda before being removed prior to the meeting. Public comment rules are again scheduled for discussion during Thursday night's meeting.

Now, aldermen are being asked to consider changes to the same ordinance.

Another item expected to draw attention is Resolution 2026-R02, which would authorize the Mayor and/or Chief of Police to execute a 287(g) agreement on behalf of the City of Winfield.

The federal 287(g) program allows local law enforcement agencies to partner with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) under specific agreements.

The agenda item comes months after Lincoln CountyWatch obtained a signed 287(g) agreement listing the Winfield Police Department under the federal program.

At the time, Winfield Police Chief Brian Wideman told Lincoln CountyWatch he was not aware the city was participating in the program and stated he had not signed any agreement. After Lincoln CountyWatch obtained the agreement, Mayor Nicole Hanson provided information that differed from statements previously made by the chief and indicated she would discuss the matter with him.

A copy of the agreement obtained by Lincoln CountyWatch can be viewed by clicking here.

Questions surrounding the status of the agreement are expected to resurface as aldermen consider Thursday night’s resolution.

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The board is also expected to appoint a new Ward 2 alderman. Several residents submitted applications after the city announced it was accepting candidates to fill the vacant seat.

Additional agenda items include city camera systems, wastewater treatment plant UV repairs, animal control matters, police vehicles, and Zoom phone services.

The Winfield Board of Aldermen is scheduled to meet at 7 p.m. Thursday at Winfield City Hall.

Lincoln CountyWatch will be attending the meeting and providing updates on any actions taken by the board.

Read the full agenda here.

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Story written by John Eads.

Sources:

City of Winfield Meeting Agenda

City of Winfield Code of Ordinances

Statement provided by Mayor Nicole Hanson