Public Comment Period Guidelines
Social Equity Council Quarterly In-person Meetings
The Social Equity Council is committed to transparency, accountability, and meaningful public engagement. As part of our quarterly in-person Council meetings, we have established a structured Public Comment Period to ensure all voices are heard in a fair, orderly, and respectful manner.
Community voice is essential to advancing equitable economic opportunity across Connecticut’s Disproportionately Impacted Areas.
Public Comment at-a-Glance:
- 2 minutes per speaker
- Sign-in required before speaking
- Comments should relate to agenda items
- Written comments accepted before or after meetings
- Public Comment is a designated agenda item at quarterly in-person meetings
- Participation must remain respectful and orderly
Overview
The Public Comment Period provides members of the public with an opportunity to share comments, concerns, or recommendations with the Council.
The Council is committed to administering this process in a fair, neutral, and consistent manner, in accordance with the Connecticut Freedom of Information Act and applicable open meeting requirements.
How to Participate
Public Comment is a designated agenda item at quarterly in-person Council meetings. Individuals who wish to speak must sign in prior to the start of the Public Comment Period.
To ensure a focused and equitable process for all participants, comments should relate to items on the meeting agenda and within the Council’s scope of work.
Speaking Guidelines
Each speaker will have up to two minutes to share their comments. The total Public Comment Period will not exceed 30 minutes unless extended by a vote of the Council.
Speakers are asked to address the Council as a whole and refrain from engaging in dialogue or debate with Council members or other participants.
Written Comments
Written comments may be submitted either before or after a meeting. This option is available for individuals who are unable to attend or prefer to provide feedback in writing.
All written submissions will be included as part of the public record. Email SEC.Comments@CT.Gov.
Standards of Conduct
- To ensure a respectful and productive environment, all participants are expected to engage in a non-disruptive manner.
- Personal attacks, threats, profanity, or other disruptive behavior are not permitted.
- Individuals who do not adhere to these expectations may receive a warning, have their speaking time ended, or be asked to leave the meeting if necessary to maintain order.
Full Policy
For full details, including formal procedures and enforcement guidelines, please review the complete Public Comment Policy.
