How to sign up for Akron City Council public comment

An Akron City Council instructional video explains how members of the public can register to speak during the council’s public comment period.

The video instructs viewers to go to akroncitycouncil.org, click "register now," complete the online form and click "submit." It says requests must be received "by 4PM on the date the individual intends to speak" and that up to 10 members of the public may address council at each regular meeting; no individual may speak more than once every 30 days.

The form asks for contact information (including a phone number), the meeting date, whether the speaker will appear in person or virtually, and what they want to speak about. The video notes that if a speaker selects virtual participation, "an email address is required so that we can send you the meeting link." It also says there is a field to indicate whether the item is on the meeting agenda and an option to attach supporting documents for council.

The presenter tells users that once they have registered once, "your information will auto fill" on future forms. For people without a device, the video says they can "come into our office and staff will assist in getting them signed up." After submission, users are redirected to a confirmation page indicating the form has been submitted and staff will review forms during business hours.

For assistance the video provides a contact number: (330) 375-2256. The presenter also directs viewers to the city’s YouTube channel for additional informational videos.

The video cites "council rule 5.3" as the governing process for the public comment sign-up.