Alexandria City Council Offers Call-In Option for Public Testimony at March 14 Public Hearing Meeting

ALEXANDRIA, VA – While the Alexandria Health Department continues to advise that the general public in Alexandria is currently at low risk for exposure to the COVID-19 coronavirus, the Alexandria City Council is offering the option for speakers at the March 14 public hearing meeting to provide testimony by phone rather than in-person.

Individuals using the phone option will be heard by those in the City Council Chamber in the same way as if they spoke in person. The meeting begins at 9:30 a.m., on the second floor of City Hall (301 King St.).

“This is an opportunity to use creative strategies to respond to our current challenge while also testing the feasibility of using technology to expand public participation in the future,” said Mayor Justin Wilson. “We welcome those who would like to provide feedback to City Council for the March 14 meeting in writing, in person or by phone.”

Speakers who choose the call-in option must register in advance by using the link at the top of the meeting docket no later than 8 a.m. on March 14, and will be provided with call-in instructions after registering. Speakers may also register in person when they arrive in the City Council Chamber. [Editor’s Note: The City’s press release regarding this option was released at 7:41 p.m. on March 13, 2020. We apologize for not posting this story sooner.]

Those who choose to attend the meeting in person are encouraged to wash their hands frequently, avoid shaking hands, use disposable tissues for coughing and sneezing, and maintain at least six feet of personal space. Surfaces in City Hall are cleaned regularly, and hand sanitizer containing at least 60% alcohol is available.

For City Council meeting dockets, visit alexandriava.gov/Dockets.

For more information about the COVID-19 coronavirus and how you can help protect yourself and those around you, visit alexandriava.gov/Coronavirus.