New Way to Ask Questions at Council Meetings

Residents now have a new, simple way to take part in Council meetings. You can submit your questions in advance on an item listed on an upcoming meeting agenda, and they will be read and answered during the meeting.

This option makes it easier to participate if you cannot attend in person or prefer to plan your question ahead of time.

Who can submit a question

Residents, property owners, business owners in the Township of Russell, or their official representative, can submit a question about an upcoming Council meeting.

How to submit a question

Questions must be submitted by noon on the day of the meeting. You can choose one of the following options:

• Complete the online form
• Email the Clerk’s Office
• Send or drop off a written letter to the Clerk’s Office

You can view meeting agendas to know what will be discussed.

What your question must include

To be accepted, questions must:

• Be about an item listed on the meeting agenda
• Include your name. Anonymous submissions are not accepted
• Use respectful language
• Be relevant and appropriate

The Clerk’s Office reviews all submissions. Questions that do not meet these requirements will not be approved.

All questions are handled according to the Township’s records management and retention by-law.

What happens during the meeting

Approved questions are:

• Read aloud during the “Public Questions on the Meeting of the Day” portion of the meeting
• Answered by Council members or Township staff when possible

If your question relates to an item that is added to the agenda during the meeting, it may be held and answered at the next Council meeting.

Important to know

• Approved questions will be part of the live broadcast and official recording of the meeting
• Questions and answers are not included in the written meeting minutes

Stay informed and involved

Submitting a question in advance is a simple way to stay informed and have your voice heard. Residents are encouraged to review meeting agendas and take part in local decision making.

Visit the Township website to submit your question and view upcoming agendas.