Create a Fixed Time for Public Comments in San Jose City Council Meetings

The Issue

To: The City Council of San Jose, California

We, the undersigned, call upon the City Council of San Jose to establish a dedicated, fixed time for public comments during city council meetings.

Working families in our community face numerous challenges that make attending city council meetings difficult. Many of us juggle full-time jobs, school schedules, extracurricular activities, and household responsibilities. As a result, the current open comment period, which fluctuates based on the agenda, often forces families to wait for hours to voice their concerns. This system not only limits participation but also feels like a form of suppression for those of us who want to engage in local governance.

We propose the following:

  1. Establish a Fixed Time for Public Comments: Create a consistent time slot for public comments at every city council meeting, allowing families to plan accordingly.
  2. Enhance Community Engagement: This change would enable more residents to participate, fostering a more inclusive atmosphere where everyone can contribute their perspectives.
  3. Support Working Families: By accommodating our schedules, the city can show its commitment to supporting working families and ensuring that all voices are heard.

We believe that active participation in local governance is a fundamental right. By implementing a fixed time for public comments, the City Council of San Jose can ensure that all community members have a fair opportunity to express their views and engage in the decision-making process.

Sign this petition to support working families in San Jose and advocate for a more accessible city council meeting structure!

Thank you for your attention to this important issue.

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The Issue

To: The City Council of San Jose, California

We, the undersigned, call upon the City Council of San Jose to establish a dedicated, fixed time for public comments during city council meetings.

Working families in our community face numerous challenges that make attending city council meetings difficult. Many of us juggle full-time jobs, school schedules, extracurricular activities, and household responsibilities. As a result, the current open comment period, which fluctuates based on the agenda, often forces families to wait for hours to voice their concerns. This system not only limits participation but also feels like a form of suppression for those of us who want to engage in local governance.

We propose the following:

  1. Establish a Fixed Time for Public Comments: Create a consistent time slot for public comments at every city council meeting, allowing families to plan accordingly.
  2. Enhance Community Engagement: This change would enable more residents to participate, fostering a more inclusive atmosphere where everyone can contribute their perspectives.
  3. Support Working Families: By accommodating our schedules, the city can show its commitment to supporting working families and ensuring that all voices are heard.

We believe that active participation in local governance is a fundamental right. By implementing a fixed time for public comments, the City Council of San Jose can ensure that all community members have a fair opportunity to express their views and engage in the decision-making process.

Sign this petition to support working families in San Jose and advocate for a more accessible city council meeting structure!

Thank you for your attention to this important issue.

The Decision Makers

San Jose City Council
2 Members
David Cohen
San Jose City Council - District 4
Pam Foley
San Jose City Council - District 9
Omar Torres
Former San Jose City Council - District 3

Supporter Voices

Petition Updates