Understanding public hearings

By Brandie Majeau

Public hearings are a fundamental process of local government, allowing

residents to participate in important decision-making processes. With the recent public

hearing being held, the Town of Redwater wants to ensure everyone understands how it

works.

The Town of Redwater must have a Public Participation Policy under Section

216.1(1) of the Municipal Government Act. This policy ensures that residents are

involved in decision-making processes that affect their community. Public hearings fall

under Level 2 Consultative Decisions and are designed to gather input before making

decisions to consider the views and concerns of residents.

Public hearings are formal meetings where residents can express their opinions

on proposed bylaws, zoning changes, land use amendments, and other municipal

matters before making a final decision. They are a legal requirement for specific

decisions under the Municipal Government Act (MGA). Public hearings are not a vote.

They do not directly decide whether a proposal is approved or rejected. They are not a

forum for personal grievances unrelated to the matter at hand, and the goal is to gather

relevant feedback on a specific issue or proposal.

It is necessary to understand the importance of public hearings as required by

law for certain actions, such as adopting or amending bylaws and making significant

land use changes. This allows residents to understand the concept of procedural

fairness, which ensures that everyone has a fair chance to participate and that

decisions are made based on the facts and feedback presented during the hearing.

Procedural fairness involves providing notice and opportunity, equal access to

information, impartiality, the right to be heard, and transparency in decision-making.

The Council’s role during a public hearing is to listen to public input, ask

questions to inform their decision-making process and avoid debating with the public.

Council members must approach the hearing with an open mind, remain impartial, and

consider all perspectives presented. This commitment to neutrality allows them to make

informed decisions based on the feedback received, demonstrating respect for the

community’s voice and concerns.

After a public hearing, the Town Council deliberates and decides based on the

feedback and evidence provided. No decision is made during the hearing itself. Council

members consider the opinions of residents, technical reports, expert opinions, and

municipal policies before making a final decision. Public hearings are important for

maintaining procedural fairness and ensuring that all residents can voice their opinions

on important community issues. Feedback from residents, whether for or against a

proposal, is essential to the process.