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London council participation: public meetings, delegations and written comments
London, Ontario, Canada
Start with the standing committee agenda. Public-participation items allow comments; other items can receive written submissions or a requested delegation. Speaking time is generally five minutes.
Key information
Start with the standing committee agenda. Public-participation items allow comments; other items can receive written submissions or a requested delegation. Speaking time is generally five minutes.
On this page
Choose the participation route
| Route | When it applies | Deadline or condition |
|---|---|---|
| Public participation in person | Agenda specifically labels item PUBLIC PARTICIPATION | Attend for that item;five-minute comments |
| Public participation on Zoom or phone | Same designated agenda items | Register by 9 a.m. on meeting day |
| Delegation request | An item on a standing committee agenda | Written request by 9 a.m. the business day before |
| Written communication | Agenda item or message to council members | Send before meeting; identify the matter |
| Observe without speaking | Open council or committee meeting | Watch live or later video |
Sources: Council and committee meetings
Key checks at a glance
- Public participation registration
For virtual participation, email PPMClerks@london.ca or call 519-661-2489 extension 7100 by 9 a.m.
- Delegation requests and approval
A delegation request must be written, relate to an item on a standing committee agenda and meet the 9 a.m.
- Agendas, livestreams and access needs
The city calendar links agendas, reports, minutes and videos.
Sources: Council and committee meetings
Public participation registration
For virtual participation, email PPMClerks@london.ca or call 519-661-2489 extension 7100 by 9 a.m. on the meeting day. State the meeting and item. Staff supply joining directions after registration. In-person and virtual speakers both have up to five minutes.
An ordinary agenda item is not automatically a public-participation meeting. Look for the specific label. If it is absent, submit a written communication or use the delegation route rather than assuming the chair will open a public microphone.
Sources: Council and committee meetings
Delegation requests and approval
A delegation request must be written, relate to an item on a standing committee agenda and meet the 9 a.m. business-day-before deadline. Requests unrelated to agenda items are not accepted under this process.
An appropriate request is put on the agenda, but the committee still chooses whether to hear it, defer it or deny it. If accepted, the speaker gets up to five minutes. A repeat delegation about the same subject is limited to new information. Delegation requests are not heard at Council meetings.
Sources: Council and committee meetings
Complete standing committee contact list on the city page
| Committee | |
|---|---|
| Community and Protective Services | cpsc@london.ca |
| Infrastructure and Corporate Services | ICSC@london.ca |
| Planning and Environment | pec@london.ca |
| Strategic Priorities and Policy | sppc@london.ca |
Sources: Council and committee meetings
Agendas, livestreams and access needs
The city calendar links agendas, reports, minutes and videos. During an open meeting, the video link appears beside the agenda. On a phone, choose Start Mobile Live Stream. Closed sessions and breaks do not have a stream.
Ask accessibility@london.ca or 519-661-2489 extension 2425 for alternate formats or communication support. The city gives a collection notice for participation information, which is used by councillors and staff while considering the matter. Read the notice before including personal details in a submission.
Sources: Council and committee meetings
Questions and answers
Can I speak on any Council agenda item?
No. Delegations are heard at standing committees, not Council, and must relate to a listed committee item.
Source: Council and committee meetings
How do I know a public-participation item?
The agenda explicitly marks it PUBLIC PARTICIPATION.
Source: Council and committee meetings
What is the virtual public-participation deadline?
9 a.m. on the day of the meeting.
Source: Council and committee meetings
Where do I register for virtual public participation?
PPMClerks@london.ca or 519-661-2489 extension 7100.
Source: Council and committee meetings
What is the delegation-request deadline?
9 a.m. on the business day before the meeting.
Source: Council and committee meetings
Does submitting a delegation guarantee speaking?
No. The standing committee can approve, refer or deny the request.
Source: Council and committee meetings
How long can a speaker talk?
Up to five minutes under these published participation and delegation routes.
Source: Council and committee meetings
Can I repeat the same delegation?
Repeat delegations on the same subject are limited to new information.
Source: Council and committee meetings
Why has the livestream disappeared?
No stream is available during a closed session or break.
Source: Council and committee meetings
Who handles meeting accessibility requests?
accessibility@london.ca or 519-661-2489 extension 2425.
Source: Council and committee meetings