Records
What an Agenda Item Can Tell You Before the Meeting
Learn how to read an agenda item, its report and attached papers to identify the decision being considered—and…
The briefing archive
All briefings
Explore explanations of civic institutions, public decisions, records and language, each built around a distinct question readers can follow.
Participation
How to Participate in a Council Decision at the Right Stage
Learn how to participate in a council decision by matching your contribution to the stage, channel and instructions…
Institutions
Why Public Bodies Publish Minutes
Why public bodies publish minutes: see how an official record supports accountability, lets residents question…
Language
What “Approved” Means in a Public Decision
Learn what “approved” means in a public decision by identifying the object, decision-maker and limits, so you can…
Decisions
A First Read of a Draft Public Plan
A first read of a draft public plan helps you identify affected people, supporting evidence and unanswered trade-offs…