Participation in Public Hearings

Public Hearings provide an opportunity for members of the public to speak to Council on advertised planning and development matters and other matters as determined by Council. 

The public is welcome to participate in Public Hearings by submitting written comments or by remote participation.

How can I participate in a Public Hearing?

Public Hearings enable members of the public to provide direct input to Council. You may choose to submit written comments and/or attend the Public Hearing. All visitors to City of Red Deer facilities are expected to follow the appropriate policies and procedures to ensure the safety and security of everyone working in and visiting our sites. This includes respectful remote participation in meetings (e.g. phone).

Written Submission:
Members of public wishing to submit written comments may do so in one of the following ways:

  • Drop off comments
    Drop off a written copy of your submission at City Hall (4914 48 Avenue) during business hours to the attention of Red Deer City Council c/o Clerk, Legal & Legislative Services; or
  • Mail
    Mail your submission to:
    Red Deer City Council c/o Clerk
    Legal & Legislative Services
    Box 5008
    Red Deer, AB T4N 3T4

For more information on providing written comments, please visit the Submissions page.

If you have questions about participation or need additional information on Public Hearing procedures, contact Legal & Legislative Services at 403-342-8132 or email publichearings@reddeer.ca.

Can I see the list of people registered to speak?

The list of speakers is not publicly available prior to the meeting. The names of speakers will be publicly available in the Minutes following the meeting.

How will I know it’s my turn to speak?

The speaking order will be determined by the Chair or delegate. For example, the Chair may determine that those in favour of the bylaw will speak before those who are opposed or vice versa; or speakers may be heard in the order that they registered (first come, first served).

If a speaker is absent when it is their turn to speak, City Council will hear from the next person on the list.

Regardless of the speaking order, the Chair will, prior to proceeding, ask if anyone else from the public wishes to speak to Council on the matter in order to ensure that everyone who wishes to speak has had an opportunity to do so.

Is there a speaking time limit?

Effective May 9, 2022, you may make a presentation or speak for up to 5 minutes. The 5 minutes does not include the time to respond to questions from Members of Council. You may only speak about the issue that is being considered at the Public Hearing. Following your presentation, any Member of Council may ask you questions.

Can I speak on behalf of someone else?

Yes, you may choose to speak for yourself or on someone else’s behalf. Please note that effective May 9, 2022, each speaker has 5 minutes to speak regardless of how many people they are speaking for.

Can I make comments to other presentations?

During the Public Hearing, you present your comments to City Council on how you are affected by the subject matter that Council is considering. There is no opportunity to rebut comments made by other speakers.