As citizens of the United States we are guaranteed rights under our constitution including the right to participate in our government. This participation entails responsibilities to our country and our fellow citizens. One of those responsibilities is that citizens be both educated and informed on the issues that affect our society. In attending a city council meeting, you will be exposed to how business is done by our local government, how people exercise their rights, and the ways in which local government functions.
Consider the following questions during the City Council Meeting. How many people, not including students, are in attendance? What are the ages and demographics of those attending? Where is the meeting being held? Who has the responsibility for running the meeting? Are those in charge using formal procedures to conduct business? If so, describe the process. What are the major topics being discussed? How much time is spent on each topic?
The Framers developed the Preamble and articles around six broad ideas, or principles: Popular Sovereignty, Limited Government, Checks and Balances, Federalism, Judicial Review, and Separation of Powers. After your city council meeting, define and explain how the local government meeting is related to the following three:
Secondly, think about the following questions:
