How to participate in San Jose’s city meetings

Interested in getting involved in public meetings? We’re laying out how, when, and where you can take part.

San Jose City Hall at night from afar

Make your voice heard.

Photo via @steezc

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Each week, the City of San Jose’s committees, boards, and councils host various meetings to discuss the current goings-on. Most of these meetings are open for public comment — here’s how you can get involved.

👀 Watching meetings

Currently, the city is conducting boards and commission meetings virtually. However, City Council meetings are held both in-person and virtually via Zoom.

You can watch live broadcasts + previously recorded meetings via YouTube or by clicking on the “In Progress” or “Currently in Session” link (under “How to Watch”) via the city’s webpage.

San Joseans are also welcome to attend City Council meetings held in-person.

🗣️ Participating in meetings

Submit written public comments before the meeting through this portal by clicking a specific meeting’s “eComment” link, if available. You can also send an email to the city clerk with comments — emails must be sent by 10 a.m. on the day of the meeting.

Bonus: If you didn’t submit your thoughts quickly enough, you can still make comments during City Council meetings by sending an email with the Agenda Item Number in the subject line. Your comment won’t be read aloud, but will be recorded.

If you’d like to provide spoken comments and are tuning in virtually, click “raise hand” in Zoom meetings. You’ll be notified right before you get the chance to speak.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed, don’t sweat it — most meetings’ specific agendas outline how you can join in + make your voice heard.

🗓️ Upcoming meetings

View the full meeting calendar.