Before the meeting
- Find the agenda. Look for the item and its number. Public hearings are often listed separately from regular business.
- Check the rules. Look for sign-up cards or forms, time limits per speaker, deadlines, and whether written comment is accepted.
- Read the staff report if one is posted. It usually explains the request and the staff recommendation.
- Write your points down. Speaking time is often only a few minutes.
At the meeting
- Arrive early and sign up if the body asks you to.
- When called, give your name and, if asked, the general area you live in. You do not need to share more personal information than the body requires.
- Speak to the item on the agenda, and to the board rather than to the audience.
- If you cannot attend, ask whether written comments go into the record.
Where to find each body's page
- Memphis City Council
- Memphis and Shelby County Division of Planning and Development (Land Use Control Board, Board of Adjustment)
- Olive Branch Board of Aldermen
- Southaven Board of Aldermen
Anyone may speak for, against or with questions. Civic Watch takes no side.