Open comments are here to stay on The Berkeley Scanner

Back in April, we opened comments to all Scanner subscribers as part of a one-month pilot test to expand the conversation beyond paying members.

The results were clear: We got more comments, more subscribers and more reader engagement with our work. And when we polled you afterward about the experience, 87% of responding readers said we should keep comments open for good.

Today, I'm happy to share an update: Open comments are here to stay.

Over the past few months, many readers shared thoughtful, candid feedback about potential consequences to open comments. We read every response. Rather than gloss over those concerns, I want to address the most common worries in more detail.

Some wondered whether a bigger pool of commenters would mean more ranting and less substance. But during the monthlong pilot, that's not what we saw. We saw more voices added to the conversation.

And, in case you’re worried, moderation guardrails remain. Comments that flood the feed, add nothing new or turn nasty can be hidden or removed, and repeat offenders will be banned.

Several of you also pointed to cautionary tales elsewhere in local news, and we understand why. The difference between TBS and other comment sections, we believe, is that we require readers to log in with a verified email address before leaving remarks. That alone filters out most trolls.

While more comments may mean a bit more work, moderation remains manageable. Most issues are typically resolved after a warning. And, if moderation becomes more daunting, we'll adjust. 

Most of all, we’re excited about the expanded pool of 13,000-plus registered readers — paying members as well as free subscribers — who can now comment.

For members who feel they are losing a perk, here's our thinking: The most valuable incentive we can offer is a thriving publication with a comments section worth reading. The pilot suggested open comments help on both counts. Membership still comes with real benefits, and we're always considering new ways to boost support. If you have ideas, we want to hear them.

How to comment on The Berkeley Scanner

The rules haven't changed: Anyone with a verified email address who is signed in to the TBS website can comment.

• Ready to comment? Start by signing in
• Not on the list? You'll need to register first

After registering, update your profile and add a short bio right from the comments section — just click the circle next to the comment box to customize your settings.

Real names are encouraged but not required.

Sort comments by newest, oldest or "best" (based on reader reactions).

Our longstanding comments policy remains in effect, and we reserve the right to delete comments that violate the rules. That means:

• No hate speech, doxxing or threats
• Keep it civil — especially when you disagree
• Jerky behavior toward other commenters will be removed
• Don't be repetitive or flood the feed
• Try to add something new to the conversation or move it forward
• Folks who repeatedly flout the rules and ignore TBS feedback may be banned

Thank you for all of the feedback to help inform this decision. We’ll see you in the comments section!