Have you ever been to a city council meeting and got frustrated because you were not heard when you spoke up? Or you were so nervous that the words just didn't flow? Or you have been to the meeting to just listen and were overwhelmed with the emotions some people showed when speaking up? Or maybe you just don't understand the process and so you don't attend?

Well, the City Council meeting is the place where you can voice your opinions, see some action (although it might take some time) and hear other people's choices. And if you live in the city of Merced, it is your right to be heard. You have a city council member who represents your district and should be representing your best interest. But there are procedures in place that need to be followed, because if there is no order to things people will misuse it.

So, if you are interested in learning more about how the city council meetings work and how you learn to speak up, come and join the newly formed "Neighbors Unidos." We meet on the 2nd and 4th Wednesday of the month at 6pm in the McNamara Community Center at 1040 Canal Street. Come and learn to make our communities a better place. This group is made up of people who want to see Merced thrive and want to work together for the common good of the city. This is not a 'gripe' session, but is about learning and engaging.

Learn about how the City Council functions. Learn how to speak up and be heard. Learn about concerns people have in the community and share your knowledge and expertise, your passion for the city and your heart for change. Together we make a difference.