How to Address the City Council at a Meeting

Communication on Matters That Are On the Agenda

Individuals wishing to speak regarding matters that are on the agenda may do so during the time for public input for each item. Speakers are required to provide their name and address for the record upon reaching the podium and will have three minutes to speak.

Communication on Matters That Are Not On the Agenda

No action will be taken by the City Council in this category unless the City Council determines that an emergency exists or that there is a need to take action and the need to take action came to the attention of the City subsequent to the posting of the agenda.

Communications From the Audience Regarding Items Not On This Agenda

Persons who wish to speak may complete and hand in to the City Clerk a “Request to Speak” form, available at the door. Each individual making this type of request is limited to three minutes.

Advance Written Request to Reserve Time to Speak

Written requests must be received in the City Manager's Office no later than 10:00 am, seven days prior to the City Council meeting. Each person making this type of request is limited to three minutes.

To Submit your Comments on an Agenda Item Electronically

Many citizens attend the Council meetings and speak on issues that are important to them. However, some people are unable to attend. Therefore, to provide everyone with the maximum opportunity to be heard, the City Clerk's office has created the Agenda Item Position Slip. You simply fill in the form, stating your position and including your comments, if any, regarding any agenda item. You can then submit your form electronically.

Agenda Item Position Slip

The form will also be available in hard copy format in the City Clerk's Office at 300 North Coast Highway. You can submit your completed form to the City Clerk staff at that location.

All Agenda Item Position Slips received up to midnight, the day prior to the scheduled Council meeting will be provided to the Mayor and Councilmembers and will be part of the official record.

This will provide more opportunity for you to voice your position on the items Council is considering. It is also a way to have one person designated to speak on behalf of a large group and still have the individual members of that group submit their position/comments.

Thank you for your input!