Citizens' meeting

A classic of citizen participation

In Bavaria, the first mayor (Lord Mayor) must convene a citizens' assembly once a year, or more often if requested by the city or municipal council. It must then take place within three months if 2.5% - 5% (municipality > 10000 inhabitants) of the municipality's citizens request it, stating an agenda. In this case, however, the meeting can only be requested once a year. The meeting is chaired by the first mayor (Lord Mayor) or a representative appointed by him.

Who can have a say?

Every citizen of the city is entitled to attend the citizens' assembly and has the right to speak. It is requested that questions to be answered at the citizens' assembly are submitted in writing in advance so that the administration can prepare well-founded statements. Nevertheless, visitors are free to ask questions verbally on site. Recommendations from citizens' assemblies must be dealt with by the city council within a period of three months (plus any vacation periods). A recommendation is deemed to have been made if it has been approved by the majority of the citizens' assembly. The vote requires a motion.