Public Participation

The public is encouraged to participate in Council meetings. When Council comes to agenda Item 9, presentation of matters by the public, anyone may address Council by seeking recognition from the chair and identifying themselves by giving their name and address. Council asks that you use the microphone in the center of the room in order that your remarks can be heard by our listening and viewing audience. Please direct your remarks to the chair.

When Council moves to Item 11, legislation, anyone may again address Council using the same procedures, but during this period remarks must be relevant only to the legislation on the floor.

Meeting Schedule:

According to the City Charter, Council shall meet on the first and third Mondays of each calendar month. If the regular meeting shall fall on a legal holiday, then such regular meeting shall be held on the day following. In addition, Council may meet in either special or emergency meetings, using notification procedures specified in the Charter.

First, Second and Third Readings: The Charter requires that legislation introduced in Council must normally appear on the agenda for three meetings. The first two readings are for initial discussion and possible referral to committee. Items on third reading may be voted on at that meeting.

Suspension of Rules: If 6 or more Council members vote for suspension, legislation on the agenda for first or second reading may be voted upon immediately.

Declaring an Emergency: Legislation containing this language allows Council to vote to waive the 30-day waiting period following the Mayor's signing before the ordinance becomes effective. A favorable vote of 5 or more Council persons is needed for passage under this provision.

Your attendance in future meetings will be welcomed.

The following is a list of committees and their Chairpersons: