Final answer:
Reporters wait for a quorum at city-council meetings, which is the minimum number of members needed to conduct official business. Local government meetings offer a chance for public engagement and transparency in decision-making. Journalists and citizen journalists provide visibility to these meetings, influencing public opinion and accountability.
Step-by-step explanation:
Reporters who cover city-council meetings often spend time waiting for enough council members to show up to make a quorum. A quorum is the minimum number of members who must be present at a meeting to legally transact business. The importance of a quorum ensures that decisions are made by a representative segment of the council rather than a small, potentially unrepresentative group.
Attendance at local government meetings is crucial for transparency and public participation in the democratic process. These meetings provide insights into political cultures and decision-making processes. They are opportunities for citizens, including students, to engage as active participants, providing public comment and becoming more informed about the matters affecting their community.
Journalists and citizen journalists play a vital role by reporting on these meetings. Their presence ensures that local government activities receive the necessary visibility and that issues of public interest are communicated to a broader audience. Their reports can influence public opinion and can hold elected officials accountable for their actions and decisions.