Municipal government is truly the most hands-on level of government. We're your local representation, and we rely on you, the residents of Burlington, to keep us informed and on track. That is why we encourage people to speak at Council and Committee meetings. It's one of the best ways for us to make sure we're representing the interests of the community.
Speaking at a Council or Committee meeting is easier than you may think. If you wish to speak at a Council or Committee meeting, you must register to speak at a meeting. We have prepared a list of presentation tips to help you prepare for your presentation. You may also find useful information in Engaging with City Council and its Committees - Handbook (PDF).
Listed below are the answers to frequently asked questions. If you have any other questions or need further details, feel free to call 905-335-7600, ext. 7805.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is a Delegation?
- What is a Standing Committee?
- How long am I able to speak for?
- What if I wish to speak to an item that is NOT on an agenda?
- Where and when are the meetings?
- Where do I find an agenda for Standing Committee and Council?
Post-Delegation Survey
After you have delegated to committee or Council, please take a few minutes to give us your feedback on the process of registering and delegating.
What is a Delegation?
Delegations are individuals or groups that are requesting permission to appear before a Standing Committee or Council. In order to speak at a Council or Committee meeting, individuals must first register as a delegation. Delegations are encouraged to bring their information to the appropriate Standing Committee to allow members to consider all information before making their recommendations to Council. You do not need to register as a delegate if you want to attend as an observer.
What is a Standing Committee?
A Standing Committee is a Committee of Council where members of Council attend to discuss and make recommendations that will go to Council.
How long am I able to speak for?
Each delegation is allowed one spokesperson, who will be allowed a maximum of ten minutes to address Standing Committees and five minutes to address Council.
What if I wish to speak to an item that is NOT on an agenda?
If your item is not related to an item listed in the current agenda for the committee, you will need to provide the Clerks Department with a letter detailing your concerns and the actions you would like the committee to approve. Clerks staff will place that item on an upcoming appropriate committee agenda and inform you of the date, time and location of the meeting. Once you have received confirmation that your item has been placed on an agenda, submit a registration form to ensure that you are scheduled to speak at the committee meeting.
Where and when are the meetings?
Standing Committees and Council meet in the Council Chambers of Burlington City Hall, 426 Brant St., in accordance with the calendar set annually and approved by Council. Meetings may change and delegations that register by noon of the day of the meeting will receive confirmation of both the meeting and their delegation status. Changes to locations and times will be posted on the City's website.
Where do I find an agenda for Standing Committee and Council?
Agendas for the Standing Committee and Council meetings are posted on the Agendas and Minutes page. Standing Committee agendas are available online on the Monday prior to the Standing Committee meeting and the agendas for Council on the Friday afternoon prior to the Monday Council meeting. Limited hard copies of the agenda will also be available at the meeting.