Public Hearings

At the Town of Nashville, we believe citizen involvement is essential to a strong community and effective government. There are numerous ways to engage, including participating in public hearings.

Use the widget below to receive answers to some Frequently Asked Questions about public comments at official meetings:

Why do we hold Public Hearings?

Public Hearings are an important part of transparent government. They are often required by law and provide a formal opportunity for the public to share input before decisions are made on matters that affect the community.

Common Topics That May Require a Public Hearing:

  • Adoption of the Town Budget

  • Updates to the Town’s Comprehensive Plan

  • Rezoning Requests

  • Annexation Requests initiated by property owners

  • Amendments to Land Development Ordinances

  • Certain Special Event Permits

How You’ll Be Notified:

Public Hearing notices are shared in advance through multiple channels:

  • Posted on the Town’s official website

  • Displayed at Town Hall and in the Town Council Chambers

  • Published in The Nashville Graphic newspaper

  • Shared on the Town’s official social media pages

Be sure to follow us online and check regularly to stay informed about upcoming hearings and topics.

How to Participate and What you should expect during a Public Hearing?

Public Hearings – How to Participate

Public Hearings are held in accordance with North Carolina General Statutes and as requested by the Town Council.

If you wish to speak during a Public Hearing, no sign-up is required. Simply take a seat in the audience upon arrival at the Nashville Town Council Chambers. The Mayor will guide the hearing process and invite speakers at the appropriate time.

What to Expect During a Public Hearing

  1. A Town staff member will present details about the issue.

  2. The applicant, if applicable, may then present their case.

  3. The Mayor will open the public hearing and invite speakers to the podium one at a time.

Speaking Guidelines

To ensure a respectful and efficient process, please follow these rules:

  • Bring 11 copies of any handouts and give them to the Town Clerk before you speak. The Clerk will distribute them.

  • Speak clearly into the microphone. Begin by stating your name and address.

  • Limit comments to 3 minutes to allow time for all voices to be heard.

  • If you're part of a group, choose a single spokesperson to avoid repetition.

  • Address your comments to the entire Town Council, not individual members.

  • Keep remarks focused on the specific issue being discussed during the hearing.

  • The Town Council will listen to all feedback. No decisions are made during the hearing itself.

Additional Resources

Public-Comment-Period-Public-Hearing-Policy-Rules-of-Decorum.pdf(PDF, 139KB)

What is a Quasi-Judicial Hearing?

What Is a Quasi-Judicial Public Hearing?

Quasi-Judicial Hearings are different from standard Public Hearings. They follow a more formal, court-like process and are typically required for matters such as Special Use Permits.

Key Features of a Quasi-Judicial Hearing:

  • Sworn Testimony is required. All speakers must present factual, evidence-based information—not general opinions.

  • Sign-In Required: Anyone wishing to speak must sign in with the Town Clerk before the meeting begins.

  • Oath Administered: Speakers will be sworn in by the Mayor at the start of the hearing.

  • No General Public Comments: Unlike regular Public Hearings, comments are limited to parties with standing (e.g., the applicant, affected property owners, and experts). General public remarks are not permitted.

These hearings ensure that decisions are made based on evidence presented during the meeting, in accordance with state law and due process requirements.

 

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