Purpose Of City Council Meetings

The City Council sets policy for the governance of the City. It hears public expressions, conducts open debate and at all times informs the public of its work. No Council is infallible; therefore, it is proper that public opinion be sought, but no Councilmember can permit judgment to become subservient to criticism for persons attending the meeting.

Conversely, Aldermen should remember that they are servants of the people, not free agents, in administering the affairs of the City. The responsibility of making decisions is not easy nor without problems, but is the responsibility of the Council to vote and decide issues, regardless of personal feelings. There will always be segments of the Community dissatisfied with decisions. The purpose of government is to balance-legally and fairly-the limitations, restrictions or losses that are placed upon an individual or individuals against the welfare of the Community as a whole.

Boards & Committees

To assist the City Council in providing the best possible government for the City of Goliad, the Council appoints citizens to various boards, committees, task forces such as Main Street Board, Board of Architectural Review, and others as created by Council. Citizens interested in serving in such a capacity are invited to submit application for consideration. Applications to serve on a board are available at the City Hall. Details are also available by calling 361/645-3454.
City Council Meetings Defined

Regular Meetings

All City Council meetings are open to the public except for the executive sessions. Meetings of the city committees thereof are also open to the public. The rules of the City Council provide that citizens of the city shall have reasonable opportunity to be heard at any such meeting in regard to any matter considered thereat.

Time & Location

The Goliad City Council meets regularly on the 2nd and 4th Wednesday of every month at 6 p.m. Meetings are held regularly at the council chambers at:
City Hall
152 W End Street
Goliad, TX 77963

Meeting notices are posted 72 hours prior to the regular meeting and made accessible to the public during this time. Agenda packets containing detailed supporting documents are available for public review at City Hall. Information about meetings may also be obtained by calling the City Secretary at 361-645-3454.

Special Meetings

Special meetings may be called by the City Secretary upon request of the City Council or the Mayor. Any notice of a special meeting must state the subject(s) to be considered. No subject(s) other than the ones posted may be considered during the meeting.

Executive Session

The City Council by a majority vote may adjourn to a closed meeting. After the Executive Session the Council will convene in open meeting and will take legislative action if necessary.

Procedures in Addressing the Government Body

Agendas are provided to the general public to facilitate their participation in the order of business.

Format for Speaking

Comments are made before the Council, the public, and any member of the press who may be in attendance. The speaker must wait to be recognized by the Mayor and then present his comment or concern. A time limitation may be set by the presiding officer. Any member of the City Council may respond to the speaker.

When can I address the City Council?

• You can address the City Council during Public Comments for an issue not posted in the Agenda by completing the public comment card before the meeting and submit to City Secretary.
• During a Public Hearing the Mayor will ask for public comments.
• Any interested party may address the Council on a specific agenda item if recognized by the Mayor.

Rules of Order

Formal parliamentary procedures are observed to expedite business, maintain order, ensure justice and equality at all meetings of the Governing Body. Procedures provide equal time for all participants while protecting the individual's rights to participate.