Members of the public can now go the live video route with their comments during Mercer Island City Council video conference meetings.

Starting Sept. 1, commenters will have the usual maximum of three minutes to speak. The upcoming meeting will begin at 5 p.m.; for details, visit https://tinyurl.com/yxhgn2ca

Council meetings have continued remotely during the pandemic. During those meetings, members of the public have been given the customary opportunity — known as “appearances” — to address the council by live audio.

People who wish to now speak on camera can notify the city clerk in advance at deb.estrada@mercergov.org or call 206-275-7793, and staff will be prepared to permit temporary video access when commenters enter the live council meeting.

Commenters are asked to activate the video option on their phone or computer, ensure their room is well lit, and ensure that their background is appropriate for all audience ages. Screen sharing will not be permitted, but documents may be emailed to council as usual at https://letstalk.mercergov.org/councilconnects