At its June 26 meeting, the Yuma City Council adopted Resolution R2024-035, which updated the Council’s meeting procedures and Call to the Public guidelines. These changes are intended to foster a forum for more organized and respectful public discourse, to provide clear and accessible methods for residents to engage with the Council and to ensure meetings run smoothly and efficiently. These updates go into effect at the August 7, 2024, City Council Meeting. The Council had not updated or reviewed their meeting procedures and public input guidelines since 2010.

Highlights of Resolution R2024-35 include:

• Speaker Request Forms - Those wishing to speak on an agenda item or address the Council during Call to the Public must complete a “Speaker Request Form” and submit to City Clerk staff by 5 PM the day of the meeting. Forms can be found online, in the Clerk’s Office, as well as in the Council Chambers.
• Time Limit for Speakers – All speakers, whether speaking on an agenda item or during Call to the Public are provided three (3) minutes to address the Council. In addition, no more than five (5) speakers will be allowed per topic/issue.
• Call to the Public Time Limit – The total time for Call to the Public is limited to thirty (30 minutes).

“The public’s input on City business is an integral part of City Council meetings and how we can best stay in tune with Yuma’s needs. As leaders, it allows us the space to hear directly from the public and to then work on constructive, proactive solutions where they are applicable,” said Yuma Mayor Douglas Nicholls. “Efficiency and optimization are at the core of this resolution’s modifications.”

As a reminder, speakers at Council meetings are encouraged to present their views respectfully and constructively on City business. The guidelines prohibit loud, threatening, or abusive speech, personal attacks, and comments that disrupt the meeting. These measures help ensure a respectful and productive environment for all participants.

New platform for viewers at home:

In addition to these changes, residents who watch City Council meetings virtually will see a slight change this month. Over the past year, the City has been transitioning its digital infrastructure to Microsoft 365. As part of this transition, starting at the Council Work Session on Tuesday, July 16, 2024, the City will begin using the Microsoft Teams platform to stream public meetings instead of Zoom. Residents will be able to continue watching meetings virtually using the Teams platform. The meeting schedule and access information can be found at www.yumaaz.gov/publicmeetings. 

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