How to speak and influence at Decatur County Commission meetings

The Decatur County Commission welcomes public comment at its regular meetings in the Decatur County Courthouse at 22 West Main Street in Decaturville, and the county posts agendas and schedules on the Notices page of its website. Residents who want to raise local concerns — from road maintenance and budget items to appointments to vacancies — should review agenda links online and plan to attend prepared.

Public comment is limited to a total of 15 minutes per meeting, with individual speakers allotted up to three minutes. Speakers must sign in no later than 15 minutes before the meeting begins. If you plan to distribute written materials to commissioners, bring 19 copies so staff can place one at each seat and one for the record. The meeting room prohibits signs, banners, and disruptive displays; organizers seeking to hold a demonstration can request an outdoor area from county officials in advance.

To get on an agenda or to submit materials, contact the County Mayor’s administrative assistant or call the contact number posted on the county site: 731-852-2131. The county provides reasonable accommodations for people with disabilities; request assistance ahead of time so staff can arrange access, interpreters, or other support as needed.

These practical rules matter because commission agendas and the public comment period are primary routes for Decatur County residents to influence local decisions. Road complaints, requests for funding, and nominations to fill vacancies are routinely handled through this process. Knowing the sign-up deadline, speaking time, and distribution requirements increases the chance that your issue will be heard and considered at the correct agenda item.

Plan your visit like you would for any formal meeting at the courthouse: arrive early to sign in, keep comments concise and focused to the allotted three minutes, and bring the required number of copies if you want commissioners to review documents. If you represent a group and expect more participants, coordinate with county staff beforehand to arrange an outdoor demonstration area rather than bringing signs into the meeting room.

For residents tracking vacancies, budget deliberations, or road projects, regularly check the Notices page for updated meeting schedules and agenda links. Being informed and following the county’s procedures is the surest way to make your voice count at the next commission session, and to ensure officials can respond efficiently to community needs.