It's called reverse-lip service.  Let the people talk for 2 hours, then ignore them.  "Hurry up, we have to vote on this before you say something that embarrases us or forces us to change our minds."  
And the beat goes on.  
Great post WhyBother!  You nailed it!  
Also notice how Caldwell just introduced the possibility of him increases property taxes.  This whole thing is toxic from start to finish.  If he does that to us it will be something I can't even find the words for.