Testimony by citizens during a public hearing is usually limited to two or three minutes in length. So, prepare your remarks carefully.
Open your remarks by stating your name and place of residence for the record. Often public hearings are recorded on audio tape. Identifying information is critical for that record.
Your opening sentence should be something to the effect that:
"I speak in favor of or in opposition to (depending upon your point of view of the matter)
the resolution or the permit application or the proposal or the legislation being considered by the Council or Board of Supervisors or Commission or Committee.
Next make your points to support your statement in short declarative sentences. Stay away from long, personal anecdotes. Legislators needs facts more than they need personal stories no matter how touching those accounts may be.
Conclude your remarks by reminding everyone of your position. Say something like this:
"In closing, I urge the Council or Commission, or Board, or Committee to
Adopt or reject the resolution
Vote for or Vote against the proposed legislation
Approve or deny the permit application
Chose whatever best fits the situation in which you testimony will be heard.
Expressing your opinion on civic affaris is part of the American democratic tradition. Let your public officials know what you think!
