Speaking at a Torrance City Council meeting just became easier for residents who cannot get to City Hall.

The City has implemented remote public participation for Council meetings in accordance with California Senate Bill 707.

That means residents can now participate during public-comment periods without physically sitting inside the Council Chamber.

For the September 1 meeting, the City lists a telephone option using (669) 444-9171 with Meeting ID 899 1450 5182.

During a public-comment period, callers can press *9 to raise their hand. When the final four digits of their phone number are announced, they press *6 to unmute and speak.

Residents can still participate the traditional ways as well: attending in person or submitting comments ahead of time through the City’s OneMeeting public portal.

Written comments received by 5:30 p.m. on the Monday before a Tuesday Council meeting are published for public review before the meeting. Later submissions received before adjournment become part of the official record.

The change matters because attending a multi-hour evening meeting in person can be difficult for working residents, seniors, caregivers and people with transportation limitations.

Remote participation does not guarantee shorter meetings — but it does lower the barrier to having your voice heard.

Article Link