Meetings and public comment: the worksheet.

1 Read the sample agenda

Made-up Town Council, regular meeting. 1. Call to order. 2. Approval of the minutes of the last meeting. 3. Public comment on items not on this agenda: up to three minutes per speaker, sign up before the meeting starts. 4. Consent items: routine items approved together without discussion unless a member asks. 5. Staff report: proposed change to library opening hours (report attached). 6. Proposal: new pedestrian crossing near the park (comments taken on this item before the vote). 7. Closed session: legal advice (not open to the public). 8. Close. Which items can the public comment on, and when? What are consent items? Which part is not open to the public?

2 Plan your two minutes

Plan a comment on item 6. Name the item; say who you are and your connection to the area; say how it affects you; say what you would like to happen; thank the members.

3 Meetings to watch

Note any meetings or consultations you want to follow.

4 Before you speak or write

Tick each one as you do it.

• I have read the agenda item and any report
• I know how and when comments are taken
• I have signed up, if that is required
• My comment fits the time limit
• I have kept a copy of anything I sent