Speak Before Council

Request to Make a Presentation to Council

Presentations regarding matters of significance to the City can be made by residents, community groups and organizations, as authorized by a majority of Council.  

If you would like to speak directly to Council about a municipal matter, a written request must first be reviewed by Council and a presentation be approved.

How to Request a Presentation

To request a presentation, please submit a signed letter of request to the City Clerk’s Department explaining the issue or topic you would like to address. Letters may be submitted in electronic or hard copy format.

Your request must:

• Be legible;
• Not contain any obscene or defamatory allegations, impertinent or improper matter;
• Be signed by the author(s);
• Contain sufficient contact information.

The information contained in correspondence constitutes public information and will become part of the public record.

No item shall be placed on an agenda which is inconsistent with the Ontario Human Rights Code or the Code of Conduct for Members of Council and its Boards and Committees.

No item shall be placed on an agenda with respect to a matter which is not within the jurisdiction of Council or its committees. The Head of Council, and/or Chair, in consultation with the Clerk, shall determine any issues regarding jurisdiction.

Submission Deadline

Your completed request must be submitted to the City Clerk’s Department by 12:00 p.m. on the Tuesday before the Council meeting at which the written request will appear.

Should Council authorize the presentation, the presentation will be scheduled at a future meeting of Council.

Speaking at the Meeting

Presentation materials shall be submitted by 12:00 p.m. on the Tuesday before the Council meeting. Approved presentations are provided a maximum of 10 minutes to address Council.

We encourage presenters to keep their comments focused on the matter identified in their presentation and request and to make the most important information clear and concise.

Questions?

If you have questions about requesting a presentation, meeting deadlines or what to expect when appearing before Council, the City Clerk’s Department is happy to help.

We encourage residents to stay informed, participate in local government and share their perspectives on matters affecting St. Thomas.