The presiding officer of the full board meetings is the President, elected from and by the Board of Alders. The President Pro Tempore, who is also elected from and by the board members, presides when the President is absent or wishes to participate in debate.

To ensure each member has the opportunity to become acquainted with legislation, bills are printed before they can be acted on. Each bill with its committee report is read twice, at two successive meetings. The final vote taken at the time (meeting?) of the second reading.

All the proceedings are recorded and published in the Journal of the Board of Alders. During an average year, as many as 950 bills are introduced and about 700 will receive final action.

Much of the board's business takes place in its committees. At committee hearings, this is the opportunity for you to express what you think and voice your suggestions and concerns about the issues that are important to you i.e. the City Budget, the use of federal funds in your neighborhood, and the level and type of services the City should provide for its residents.

For specific meeting dates, times and agendas, call the Office of Legislative Services Information line at 203-946-6483, or watch the legal notices in the daily paper.