Council rules and procedures provide for the consideration of public views at every step of the legislative process whether the decision is a new law, oversight of government service, or the annual budget. Residents can voice their opinions at public hearings and roundtables, by mail or fax, by e-mail or telephone, or in person.
Council standing committees meet twice a month on regularly scheduled days.
All Council sessions are open to the public and are broadcast live and repeated on the Council cable channel, City Cable 13. Committee public hearings held in the Chamber are also broadcast. The Council offers free subscription to the weekly mailing of the Calendar of the Week. The Calendar is available on line. D.C. Also, one copy is available free of charge.