Over the past few months, local governments have been gearing up for local elections with races for mayoral and city council positions.
This past month our team at
Community Impact Newspaper had the chance to moderate candidate forums in Shenandoah and Oak Ridge North, during which we were able to ask questions from residents.
While there are not forums each month for residents to ask questions, Texas law requires that government meetings include opportunities for public comment. In The Woodlands Township, Shenandoah and Oak Ridge North, a portion of each meeting is allocated for residents to comment on issues that affect them.
How to speak at a government meeting:
- Sign up before the meeting.
- Have a written statement, if needed.
- Be mindful of time, most comment periods are limited to 3-5 minutes per person.
- Be respectful, as derogatory comments are not permitted.
- Be aware that the council or board may not be permitted to comment or answer any questions. However, public comments are included in meeting minutes.
While officials can not always answer directly, resident feedback helps shape future agendas.
For more on what local governments are doing to encourage more feedback, be sure to read our story on Page 29 in our May print edition regarding public input in The Woodlands.
Curious about how a process in government works? Email me at
[email protected]. Your question could be answered here in a future issue.
