RTM FAQs

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FAQs for RTM Members and the residents they represent

What is the RTM?

The Representative Town Meeting (RTM) is made up of four elected Representatives from each of Westport’s nine Districts. It is part of Westport’s town government and embodies a form of direct democratic governance. Here is more information about current members, RTM Districts, and the RTM page of the Town’s website. The RTM meets monthly as a group and in Committees. Here is the meeting calendar, including agendas and materials when it is available.

What is the history of the RTM?

Why is the RTM important? How does it fit into the Town government?

What does the RTM do?

The powers and responsibilities of the RTM are provided in the Town Charter and Connecticut General Statutes and include: adopting the annual Town and Education budgets, writing and enacting ordinances, approving appropriations over $20k, reviewing labor agreements and addressing Citizen Petitions. Together, these powers allow the RTM to play a central role in Westport's governance, ensuring that residents have a voice in crucial decisions affecting the community.

What does the RTM not do?

What are RTM committees and what do they do?

What do RTM Members do?

An RTM Member’s job is to represent the interests of their district in all of the RTM’s business. Members attend and participate in Committee Meetings, monthly full RTM Meetings, and other meetings of the Town relevant to issues coming before the RTM, both in person and via Zoom. It is the RTM member’s job to be well-informed and to understand the rules governing the RTM, including Robert’s Rules of Order and FOIA, and to conduct themselves in a professional and respectful manner as detailed in the Code of Conduct. For more information see orientation docs, Robert’s rules, Zoom Guidelines, Code of Conduct, etc.

What does the RTM Moderator do?

What do RTM Committee Chairs do?

The Committee Chair is crucial in ensuring the effectiveness and success of an RTM committee. Chairs serve as the primary contact with the relevant Town Department and are responsible for onboarding new members of their committees, leading the committee, organizing work, creating reports, and ensuring objectives are met. Each Chair brings their personality and strengths to bear; however, there are key responsibilities and best practices to be followed.

How does the Budget process work, and what is the RTM’s role?

How can Westport Residents best interact with the RTM?

How can I speak with my RTM District reps?

Can I speak at an RTM Meeting?

How can I contact the RTM?

How can I Petition the RTM?