Process

The City Charter allows the City Council to act in three ways: by ordinance, by resolution, or by motion. So what is the difference in these?

Ordinance: An ordinance creates a new rule or law that regulates people or property. This new law stays in effect until the ordinance is repealed or updated. Ordinances are used to approve the borrowing of money, imposes a new tax, buy or sell land or water rights, update the Municipal Code, and any regulation for where a fine or imprisonment may be imposed. The only way to repeal or update an ordinance is by another ordinance approved by the City Council or a vote on it in a citywide election.

The City Charter requires all ordinances to have two readings in front of City Council. After the first reading the ordinance is published in full. At the second reading the Council holds a public hearing. For ordinances the public is given two chances to speak and provide their input on the proposed legislation.

Resolution: A resolution deals with matters that can be more temporary. It is a binding decision of the City Council but it can be changed at any time by a single vote of the Council. Just as with ordinances, The City Council takes public input on all resolutions. 

Motion: A motion is used to approve those items that doe not require a resolution or ordinance. This can include minutes, contracts, City policies or work plans, and meeting schedule changes.

Rules of Procedure

The City Council has adopted Rules of Procedure to govern its meeting process and has adopted a Public Involvement Policy to encourage all members of the public to be involved and informed about City activities and issues.

To speak at a City Council meeting, please complete a speaker sign up card and submit it to the City Clerk at the meeting.

If participating remotely use the "raise hand" button on your Zoom screen to join the speakers queue.

If you have questions about public participation, please contact the City Clerk's Office (303.335.4536 or meredythm@louisvilleCO.gov).