Describe, in order, the basic steps a proposed local ordinance goes through before it becomes law, including public comment and a council vote.
Making a local law follows a clear set of steps. First, someone -- a resident or a council member -- proposes an idea. Next, the city council discusses it at a public meeting, where residents can also speak during a part of the meeting called public comment. Finally, the council votes, and if enough members vote yes (a majority), the proposal becomes an actual ordinance.
Public comment matters because it lets ordinary residents, not just elected officials, be heard before a decision is made. A council can, and sometimes does, change its mind about a proposal after hearing from the public.
Mastery looks like: They can state, in order, the steps from proposal to public comment to vote, and explain why public comment matters.
Common stumbles: Skipping the public-comment step, or assuming an idea becomes law immediately once proposed.