Youngstown Mayor Derrick McDowell will host his first "5 Minutes with the Mayor" event on Thursday, providing an opportunity for him to speak directly with city residents.

The session is scheduled for 6 p.m. at City Hall on the first floor. The program enables individuals to share their thoughts, ideas, and concerns about the city with the mayor in a one-on-one setting, according to a post on McDowell’s Facebook page.

Residents who attend must sign in when they arrive. Each person will be given five minutes to discuss their topics. McDowell said the goal of the event is to ensure that residents are properly heard and have a chance to offer solutions to help improve the city.

McDowell, who took office as an independent earlier this month, said he is committed to providing a listening ear to the community. He credited former Mayor John McNally for previously using this meeting format.

City officials noted that the event is subject to change if there is bad weather or a city emergency. If any changes are made to the schedule or location, advance notice will be provided to the public.

McDowell said he has made communication with local neighbors a priority since being sworn in as the city's 52nd mayor. This event is part of his ongoing efforts to increase transparency and public engagement at City Hall, according to the mayor.