§ 29.4-9. Citizens’ Right to be Heard.

 a. The council shall provide opportunity for all members of the public to address the Council on matters of general or special concern. This opportunity shall be afforded the public at the stated monthly Council meeting. Those persons desiring to speak shall deliver to the Manager written notice of the subject matter at least seven (7) days prior to the meeting. Council shall provide procedures to permit the public to discuss agenda items without written notice. Council may adopt regulations governing the conduct of the meeting and the manner in which the public and the Municipal officers shall conduct themselves.

 b. Special Hearings Upon Petition. Whenever a petition bearing the names and addresses of fifty (50) registered voters of the Municipality shall be filed with the Municipal Manager, requesting a hearing on matters of special concern, it shall be the duty of the Manager or the Mayor and at least one (1) other member of Council to meet with the petitioners within a reasonable time and provide a hearing on the subject matter of the petition. All petitions shall be verified by the person circulating same and shall contain a concise statement of the subjects to be heard.