Title
Public Hearing Times
Proposed Motion
That the Public Hearing Times presentation be received for information, as presented.
Body
Administration Recommendation
Should Council wish to pursue enhancements to the Public Hearing process, Administration recommends Option 1, which would retain the current public hearing schedule while incorporating improvements to public notification and participation procedures. Administration is prepared to implement any option or direction as determined by Council.
Purpose
To provide Council with an analysis of the County’s current public hearing scheduling practices and options to improve accessibility and participation, including the potential for evening hearings.
Summary
Public Hearing Statistics
The table in Attachment 1 shows Parkland County’s public hearing participation from January 1, 2022, to May 29, 2026. Parkland County held 45 public hearings during this period. Data suggests that public interest varies significantly by subject matter.
Legislative & Procedural Framework
Public Hearing Requirements
- Public hearings are governed by the Municipal Government Act, the County’s Advertising Bylaw, and the Meeting Procedures Bylaw. These rules outline how hearings are scheduled, advertised, and conducted to ensure they are open, transparent, and fair.
Scheduling and Advertising
- Public hearings must be advertised in accordance with the County’s Advertising Bylaw and held during a regular or special Council meeting. Notices include the purpose of the matter, where information can be reviewed, and the date, time, and location of the hearing.
- Notices are typically posted on the County website and shared on social media at least 10 days in advance. Hearings are generally scheduled at the beginning of Council meetings to support predictability and public participation.
Public Access to Materials
- Meeting agendas, including public hearing materials, are published on the County website by 4:30 p.m. on the Thursday befor...
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