You are invited to participate in the public process by submitting correspondence or speaking before Council concerning a matter of interest or an agenda item.
Submit your written correspondence, including your name and contact information, to the Clerks department. If you want to appear before Council to make a presentation, also known as a deputation, please complete and submit a Deputation Request Form.
The deadline for submissions is 4:30 p.m. on the Monday preceding a Committee of the Whole or Council Meeting. If you want to distribute handouts or make an electronic presentation, please provide all materials at the time of your submission.
What will happen with my correspondence? |
| Any correspondence addressed to Council, or to one of its committees, is referred directly to the relevant department for review or placed on the public agenda. We will contact you about your correspondence and any decision made by Council. The personal information you choose to disclose in your letter becomes part of the public record and your name is published on the meeting agenda. |
What do I do when I arrive at the meeting? |
| Please arrive at least 15 minutes prior to the start of the meeting and take a seat in the audience. When the Chairperson announces your name, step forward and begin your presentation. Speak directly into the microphone so everyone can hear you. Please note that all COTW and Council meetings are videotaped and streamed live on the internet. |
How do I address the committee or Council members? |
| You should always address your comments to the Chairperson of the meeting. During a Council meeting, the Mayor is the Chair and is addressed as Mayor [Last Name], Madam/Mr. Mayor or Your Worship. During Committee meetings the Chairperson should be addressed as Mr. Chair or Madam Chair, as applicable |
How long may I speak? |
| Council's Procedural By-law provides you with up to 10 minutes to speak. |
What happens after I speak? |
| Once you have completed your presentation, the meeting Chair asks committee and/or Council members for questions. When you have answered all the questions, please return to your seat in the audience. You will be notified, in writing, of any decision concerning your deputation. |