Frequently Asked Questions
Q: If I am unable to reach my Alderman to discuss an issue, is there someone else that can help me?
A: Yes, Please contact the Board of Aldermen’s Office and speak to a Committee Clerk
Q: What is the difference between a docket, reports docket, and an agenda?
A: The term “Docket” refers to the document which lists all incoming “New Business” for referral to appropriate Committees.
The term “Reports Docket” refers to the document which lists all business that has been discussed in Committee and is now ready to be acted upon by the full Board of Aldermen.
The term “Agenda” refers to the document which lists all business that is appropriately before any given Committee of the Board. Items remain on the Committee agenda until such time as the Committee has made final recommendation for action by the Full Board.
Q: Are meetings of the Board and its Committees open to the public?
A: Yes, the Board of Aldermen operates within the requirements of the Open Meeting Law by posting all of its meetings and inviting the public to observe – these are public meetings. Some Committee and/or Full Board meetings consist of public hearings during which time members of the public are welcome to offer comment and ask questions regarding specific issues – for public hearings, notice is published in the local newspaper.
Q: What is the difference between Alderman and Alderman-at-Large?
A: The Ward Alderman lives in the Ward he/or she represents and is elected only by constituents who live in that Ward. The Alderman-at-Large for any given Ward lives in that Ward, but is elected by voters city-wide.
Q: I have an issue that I would like to have discussed by a Committee of the Board, how can I bring it forward?
A: It is suggested that you first contact your Ward Alderman, who will assist you in determining the best approach to handle the issue at hand.
Q: I have information regarding a pending item or an invitation or event announcement that I would like to distribute to the members of the Board. What is the best way to do that?
A: While some Aldermen prefer to receive e-mail (see Board contact list), the best way to reach all members of the Board is by sending your written comments to the Clerk’s office; each Alderman has a mailbox there and they receive a weekly delivery of all of their City mail (every Friday). Please be sure to get your information (25 copies – 1 for the Clerk’s record) to the Clerk’s office by 3 p.m. on Friday to have it included in the weekly mail distribution packet.
Q: How do I request a parking or traffic change?
A: The City of Newton Traffic Council was formed in 1998 by the Board of Aldermen to evaluate proposed changes to existing traffic regulations (parking restrictions, signs, signals, etc.). Due to the volume of petitions received, there is approximately a 3 to 6 month waiting period before requests will be heard. Traffic council meetings are open to the general public; the public is offered an opportunity to speak at the discretion of the Traffic Council chair. Residents of a particular street are notified in writing approximately 1-2 weeks before the item is heard by Traffic Council. For more information, please see the Traffic Council webpage. Traffic Council Form
