What are Council Meetings?

Council Meetings are public or private forums for the duly elected Council of the Town of Thorsby to come together and discuss, make resolutions, and decide on matters within the Town of Thorsby. All meetings are publicly held within the Town of Thorsby Council Chambers (4917 Hankin Street, Thorsby AB), unless a matter is considered in closed session per the Access to Information Act.

Types of Meetings

Most municipalities have four core types of meetings, including the Town of Thorsby:

• Committee-of-the-Whole ('COW'): These are less formal meetings for Council to discuss matters prior to making a resolution at a regular meeting. During a COW meeting, Council cannot make a resolution other than to accept the agenda, direct Administration, accept for information, take recess, enter and exit a closed session, and adjourn.
• Regular: These are the formal meetings where Council will make resolutions and decisions regarding business within the Town of Thorsby.
• Special Meetings: These meetings are held when a decision on a matter is pertinent and cannot wait until the next regular meeting. Per the Municipal Government Act ('MGA') Section 194(3) and (4), a special meeting can be called with 24 hours notice to Council and the public, or with less than 24 hours notice if 2/3 of Council agree in writing.
• Public Hearings: A public hearing is a formal meeting held by municipal council to gather public input on proposed bylaws or developments such as rezonings or land-use changes prior to a final decision is made. These are typically held for matters of significant public interest, land use and planning, etc. These hearings are mandated by the Municipal Government Act, and are not public votes.
• Organizational Meetings: An organizational meeting is required by the Municipal Government Act ('MGA') to be held prior to October 31st of each year. At an organizational meeting, many key matters are laid out for the following year. These include the following year of scheduled meetings, appointing auditors, assigning Council boards and committees, and other items of importance.

Delegations/Speaking at Council

Any person has a right to request to speak in front of Council on a matter of importance, and it is highly encouraged to participate in local government and make your voice heard. In order to do so, it's considered attending Council as a delegation.

In order to attend as a delegation, you are required to submit materials pertaining to your topic (ie. a letter with your questions/concerns, any supporting material, etc.) to the Legislative Clerk at least seven (7) business days prior to the meeting in order to be included on the upcoming agenda.