It’s the beginning of a new year, a time for local residents to take the opportunity to be heard by elected officials.

This week, Selma City Council President George Evans encouraged citizens to do just that – get involved in the process of city government.

The Selma City Council meets in the council chambers at City Hall at 5 p.m. the second and fourth Mondays of each month.

Work sessions are held the Thursday prior to the council meeting, also at 5 p.m.

This is the time when council members discuss those items that will be on the agenda at this regular meeting. According to Evans, the eight-member council talks about the issues, but no action is taken during the work session. However, these sessions are open to the public.

Citizens who have an issue to discuss with the council can request to be placed on the agenda. They can call the council secretary at 874-1234. The deadline to be placed on the agenda is the first and third Thursday of each month by 1 p.m.

Each month, you have two opportunities to be heard. In addition, council members are open to listening to their constituents any time.

If you are unhappy with city government, this is your chance to get involved. Let your elected officials know how you feel. After all, they are there to represent you.