Items scheduled for consideration by city council are outlined in a formal agenda, which typically includes the consent agenda, public hearings, ordinances and new business. The consent agenda generally consists of bid tabulations and awards, approval of purchases already budgeted and other routine matters. The consent agenda is an efficient manner for handling agenda items that are routine and non-controversial. The city council agenda often includes public hearings to obtain citizen input before council considers a matter. Public hearings are held on actions such as rezonings, annexations and other issues requiring the input from affected parties.
Public notice is given in local newspapers to announce the time and date of a public hearing.
Following a staff presentation, the mayor will ask for supporting and opposing comments. Council meetings will also include readings of ordinances. Ordinances must be approved by a majority vote on three readings before the city council. First reading is usually scheduled on the same council agenda as the public hearing. If approved on first reading, the matter will be scheduled for second and third readings at subsequent meetings.