Frequently Asked Questions
I want to speak on a zoning item, do I have to sign-up in advance to speak?
No. Sign-up is not necessary for items that receive a dedicated public hearing such as zoning ordinances, amendments to Metro’s zoning code, location exemptions for beer permits, location exemptions for short term rental properties, and the annual operating budget and capital improvements budget.
What’s the difference between the Council Meeting Public Comment Period and Committee Meeting Public Comment Periods?
For regular and special Council meetings, public comment period is not limited to items on the agenda. Speakers may speak on topics that do not appear on the Council meeting agenda. For regular and special Council Committee meetings, public comment period is limited to items that appear on the committee agenda.
When and where do I sign-up for Public Comment Period?
Persons wanting to speak must sign-up on the physical public comment sign-up sheets on the day of the scheduled meeting. Please see the Public Comment Procedures section of the Metro Council Public Comment Period page for additional sign-up information.
I need interpretation services and/or accessibility accommodations. What should I do?
Please contact the Council Office at 615-862-6780 forty-eight hours in advance of the meeting.
How much time do I have to speak?
Each speaker is allowed up to two minutes to speak.
I have handouts relating to my public comment that I want to give to Council Members. Who do I give these to?
Any written materials such as handouts or literature must be delivered to the Vice Mayor, Metropolitan Clerk, or the Council Office before 4:30 p.m. on the day of the meeting. These materials must contain the speaker’s name, organization name (if applicable), telephone number or email address, street address, and signature affixed to the front of the document.
Can I present a PowerPoint, audio recording, or video recording as part of my public comment?
No, electronic presentations or presentations requiring equipment (PowerPoint, pre-recorded audio/video, etc.) are prohibited.