Register to speak
If you want to speak at a City Council or committee meeting, you must register in advance. Use the Public Submission form online, or send your details by email, mail, or drop them off at City Hall. You must register by 4:30 p.m. on the Friday before the meeting. If you register after this time, we may not be able to fit your presentation into the agenda.
What to expect when you arrive
All City Council and committee meetings are held in the Council Chambers at City Hall, 100 Mercer Street. The room seats up to 60 people, so please arrive early if you plan to attend in person. All visitors must pass through a metal detector screening before entering the chamber.
If you need wheelchair access, use the entrance on Water Street. We also provide assistive listening devices and large print materials. If you require these services, please let the meeting support team know when you register.
How your presentation works
When it is your turn, you will have a five-minute speaking limit. This time does not include the time Council members take to ask you questions. Please keep your comments focused on the topic being discussed. You may bring printed handouts or visual aids, but you must give a copy to the City Clerk or meeting support staff before the meeting starts.
During the meeting, you may only speak to the matter on the agenda. You cannot rebut or comment on what other speakers have said. After your presentation, Council members may ask questions to clarify your points. Your comments will be recorded in the official meeting minutes.
Attending virtually
If you cannot travel to City Hall, you can join the meeting remotely. When you submit your registration, we will email you a link to the virtual meeting. Please keep your camera and microphone turned off until your turn to speak. When you are speaking, turn your camera on. Do not use the meeting chat feature during your presentation.
Submitting written comments
If you prefer not to speak live, you can submit written comments. Send them by email, mail, or drop them off at City Hall. Written comments must arrive by the registration deadline to be included in the published meeting agenda. Please note that all submissions become part of the public record, so your name and address will be listed in the agenda.
Need help?
If you have questions about registering or the meeting process, contact the Council meeting support team at 519-555-0100 or email [email protected].