Things in Avondale Estates have become more contentious than usual in the run-up to the Nov. 5 city elections.

The city is trying to redevelop five-acres of policy in downtown and recently voted to create an Urban Redevelopment Agency and intends to borrow money to pay for those projects.

Residents have questioned and criticized the city over its plans, leading to some lengthy and passionate debates during meetings.

A recent letter from the City Commission says at times the comments during those debates have gone too far.

“This is a time of great and positive change in Avondale Estates, and this change has inspired passionate interest in many residents,” the letter says. “The Board of Mayor and Commissioners recognizes this reality and wishes to do nothing to dampen either the passion or the interest. However, high emotions have recently led some meeting participants to conduct themselves in a manner that is in keeping neither with the neighborly culture of our city nor with the high standards of professional decorum necessary to conduct an effective public process.”

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In the letter, the mayor and City Commission reminded residents of the rules for public comments.

“Any speaker who behaves in a manner not consistent with the Public Comment Policy, or with norms of professional decorum generally, may be asked to leave the building,” the letter says.

Commissioner Adela Yelton recently shared the letter on her Facebook page.

“A friendly, neighborly atmosphere is one of the hallmarks of Avondale Estates,” she said. “Let’s keep it that way during public meetings.”

Here’s the full letter:

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