The Opp City Council has implemented changes for its meetings, officials said this week.

Now, everyone – with the exception of those needing to use the handicap entrance – must enter through the front door of city hall only, City Clerk Connie Smith said.

Previously, most in attendance would enter through the back at the employees-only entrance.

Additionally, everyone will be required to sign in when entering the front door, she said.

Those who wish to address the council during the meeting must contact Smith to receive a spot on the agenda. She said the deadline to be placed on the agenda is noon on the Friday before the council meeting.

“This is not a new rule; it’s always been our policy,” she said. “We just haven’t been enforcing it.”

Mayor H.D. Edgar said it’s also the city’s way of ensuring the safety of the council members and everyone in attendance.

The council meets the first and third Monday of every month.

A workshop will now be held at 5 p.m. prior to each council meeting.

Smith said the workshop will not be videotaped; however, the council meeting will continue to be televised as usual at 7 p.m. the night of the meeting and again at 7 p.m. on Thursday after the meeting.

Due to the July 4 holiday, the council will meet Tues., July 5, at 6 p.m.

All meetings are open to the public.