At the same time, the Task Force is extremely sensitive to the need for regional access to the public hearing phase of our deliberations.  Accordingly, we have decided to utilize a newly-devised combined system, which we expect will combine the benefits of regional meetings and centralized technology.

In order to expand the opportunity for public comment and participation, the public hearings will be held at the Commission Chambers, while allowing participation from the previously announced regional locations. This combined approach will allow residents to participate in person, view live on Cable TV or on the internet from their homes or place of work, and provide comment via e-mail or phone. 

For those unable to attend in person or do not have access to Cable TV or internet, they will be able view the public hearing live from these  regional  locations,  which will also be linked to the Task Force via email and telephone.  Free shuttle transportation will be available from the regional locations for those interested in attending in person the public hearing at the County Commission Chambers.   In addition, County personnel will staff the regional locations to assist individuals who do not wish to travel in communicating their comments via telephone or email.  

The format for the regional meeting at the South Dade Government Center on August 22, 2007 will remain as originally planned due to the unavailability of the Commission Chambers on that date.

The Task Force will re-evaluate the success of this new combined public hearing format on an ongoing basis in order to ensure the greatest degree of public participation and input.  In addition, our interactive website (www.miamidade.gov/charterreview) continues to allow the public 24/7 access to relevant Task Force materials.  Public comment can also be sent to the Task Force by email at charter@miamidade.gov. 

These new technologies, combined with televised and inter-active public hearings, never before utilized for Charter Review purposes, have already provided a higher degree of public participation in the on-going Charter Review process than in any other review process in recent history.  The Task Force members and County staff is committed to identifying other new and creative means of providing meaningful public information and education, as well as access to the Charter Review process.”       

It is the policy of Miami-Dade County to comply with all of the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act.  The facility is accessible.  For sign language interpreters, assistive listening devices or materials in accessible format, please call 305-644-5127 at least five days in advance.