We want to hear from you. Anyone may address Council or a committee during a public hearing, a public participation meeting, or the second reading of a by‑law.
Before you speak
- Register early. Contact the committee recording secretary or the Municipal Clerk to ask to be added to an agenda. Please register at least two weeks before the meeting.
- Tell us what you want to talk about. Include the issue in your registration.
- The chair decides if and when your presentation will be scheduled.
At the meeting
- Presentations normally last up to 10 minutes.
- Meetings are public and may be livestreamed and recorded, broadcast on Eastlink TV, and posted on our website.
- Written copies of your presentation are not required but are appreciated.
- You may be asked questions after your presentation.
- If you speak for a group, have one designated spokesperson.
- If you need audio‑visual equipment, arrange this in advance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I submit a petition?
- Yes. Petitions presented at a meeting become part of the public record. Make sure everyone who signed the petition knows their personal information may be publicly available.
How should I address the council or committee?
- Direct your comments to the meeting chair. Members may respond or ask questions through the chair.
- Only one person may speak at a time. Use respectful language and behaviour.
- The chair can remove anyone who breaks the rules of decorum.
- For more details, see our Council's Code of Conduct.
What happens after I speak?
- After answering questions, return to your seat so members can debate the issue.
- Council usually does not decide on a presentation at the same meeting unless the item is already on the agenda. (Advisory committees may handle this differently.)
- You may leave once your item is finished; you do not have to stay for the whole meeting.
Where can I get a copy of the meeting agenda?
- View council and committee agendas, minutes, and livestreams on the Agendas, Minutes & Livestream page. Search by committee and date.
Send written ideas
- You may also send your comments in writing. Letters addressed to the “Mayor and Council” are circulated to council and placed on a future agenda.
How to register or get more information
Municipal Clerk / Executive Assistant
Town of Yarmouth, 400 Main Street
Yarmouth, NS B5A 1G2
Phone: (902) 742‑8565
Fax: (902) 742‑6244
Email: admin@townofyarmouth.ca
Map of this location