Addressing Council

If you want to speak at a Council meeting - to voice a concern, raise an issue, inform the Council, or question an agenda item - check the current agenda to see if your issue is already planned on the agenda.

If you have a problem and you don’t know where to turn, contact the City Clerk’s or City Manager’s office first.  City staff may be able to address your concern quickly and efficiently.  You can always approach Council if you feel your issue was not resolved.

If Your issue Is ON The Agenda

Once the item has been introduced by the City Clerk, wait to speak until after the topic has been discussed by Council and a motion has been made.  After the motion has been made and seconded, discussion is open to the public.  Make sure you are standing at a microphone to be recognized before the item is called for a vote.

If Your Issue Is NOT On The Agenda

Record your name and address on the sign-in sheet at the back of the Council Chambers.  Wait to be recognized at the microphone by the Mayor during the portion of the agenda named "Call to Audience."

Tips

1. Move quickly to the microphone when "Call to Audience" is announced.
2. Give your name and address after being acknowledged by the Mayor.
3. Speak directly to the Mayor.  The proper procedure at a Council meeting is to address others at the table or other speakers "through the Chair."
4. Don’t be Bashful!  State your issue clearly and succinctly.
5. Be specific.  Make your announcement or address your concern, what was done or what you have already tried to do, and specifically what you want to see done to resolve the issue.
6. Keep your comments to three minutes, if possible.

Remember: Don’t apologize for taking the Council’s time - It’s your right to ask how your government is run!

Council photo courtesy of Larry Mills

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The City of Ferndale, Michigan
300 East Nine Mile Road
Ferndale, Michigan  48220
(248) 546-2525