City Council Observation

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On April 5th, 2016, I attended a Morgantown City Council meeting at City Hall on Spruce Street. The chamber is similar to a courtroom. Dark, wooden paneling with the state crest embedded into it comprises the walls, with a minty colored carpet for flooring. The desks occupied by officials are similar to podiums. The mayor sits in the front, surrounded by the city manager and city clerk. Council members sit at desks on each side of the room, facing one another. Though seating is provided, it is not adequate, so some people had to stand for the duration of the meeting. An American flag and West Virginia flag are present in the room. The meeting began with roll call, taken by the city clerk, Ms. Linda Tucker. Ms. Tucker is a Caucasian woman with short, brunette hair. She appears to be middle-aged, and …show more content…

This proclamation highlighted the value of volunteerism in communities, and Mayor Shamberger declared April 5th as National Service recognition day, urging residents to give back to the city. Mayor Shamberger attempted to recognize several students for helping clear sidewalks during the harsh winter, but very few students showed up to collect the certificates. Mayor Shamberger returned to her podium, ready to close the correspondence section. There was a discussion between Mayor Shamberger, the city clerk, and Ms. Nancy Ganz, a council member. Ms. Ganz appears to be a middle-aged blonde. The discussion revolved around recognition. Ms. Ganz questioned if other students who contributed to the community service but were not recognized would be able to receive recognition, but the city clerk was somewhat short. While Mayor Shamberger is gentler and her voice is lower, the city clerk is very sure and less empathetic. The discussion was awkwardly closed, because the city clerk said “no” and the issue was resolved. Then, Mayor Shamberger declared that the meeting was moving into the public hearing

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