This Thursday at 5:30 p.m., the City of Demopolis will host a town hall meeting at the Demopolis Civic Center.

The purpose of this meeting is to give Demopolis citizens a chance to make their voices heard, to ask questions that they may have and to discuss topics of interest to the city.

For instance, one of the big topics is expected to be the city’s approval to accept coal ash leachate from Perry County. Another is the future of the New Era Caps building on Cedar Avenue and the search for potential new tenants.

It is an opportunity for citizens to take advantage of the democratic process. Those who have questions about anything in the city can let their voices be heard.

The opportunity is always there, of course, through city council meetings or just going to the mayor or city councilman and talking, but sometimes that is not convenient or available, due to working hours, family life or several other reasons.

Demopolis mayor Mike Grayson set aside this Thursday evening to provide an open forum so that he and the members of the Demopolis City Council can get an idea of what the people are thinking about.

Even if you don’t have something on your mind, you may want to go just to hear what others may be thinking about. Maybe someone else has the same viewpoint or conflict that you have. Maybe someone else has a solution to a problem that is affecting you.

If you have something to ask or tell those in power, this is a great opportunity for you to let your voice be heard and let your complaint be known. I’ll be there because it’s part of my job. I want you to be there because you are an active member of the city.

David B. Snow is the managing editor of The Demopolis Times.