Being heard at a public hearing

Our republic is exercised by people elected from our communities, but often we feel unheard by them after that vote is cast until the next election cycle comes up. Public hearings are an important part of local governance that allows community members to directly weigh in on proposed policies, projects, or budgets. Many people are intimidated by the formal process or unsure of how to effectively participate so they don’t, but those are often the people that government needs to hear from the most. It matters that every view and perspective is heard. Here are some tips to hopefully help you become willing to speak.

Familiarize yourself with the topic or agenda item that will be discussed. Nobody wants to speak to every item on the agenda, so there is no expectation for you to know the rest of the agenda by heart. Check your local government's website for documents, staff reports, or plans related to the hearing in advance. Jot down any questions you have, or inconsistencies you see. Being well-informed will help you craft a focused comment and show officials you've done your research. It also prevents you from wasting time by speaking about an unrelated matter, or from just echoing other people’s empty talking points.

You do not have to be heard if you are intimidated by public speaking: you can submit your comment in writing instead. Every local government accepts written statements that will be included in the official record, even if you also plan to speak. This ensures decision-makers receive your input whether you speak or not. Keep written comments to one page or less with a clear summary at the top. Any bullet list should never be more than 4 points to be seen. Send it in at least two weeks prior so that it can be added as a public comment in the packet sent to the governing body, but if you don’t have it ready in time you can still send it and the local Clerk will forward your comment to the representatives.

Arrive early so you can sign up to speak before the hearing starts. There are sign-up sheets at the back of the rooms when you enter where you can specify which resolution or ordinance you want to speak to. Most allow three minutes per person, although a few bodies allow five. Find out what their limits are and respect these time limits, so others get a turn. Have key points written out in bullet form to stay on track. Open by stating your name and a general area where you live for the record.

Get straight to the point by directly addressing the issue or proposal rather than giving lengthy background. You are on a limited timeframe – pleasantries are not required and can eat time you need to make a point. Explain clearly whether you are for or against and why in a factual, solutions-oriented manner. Cite specific personal impacts, not just general concerns. Bring up any alternatives or modifications you think should be considered. You may think that the body already has their opinion set before a meeting, but even a representative who sponsors a bill will adjust it if given a good reason and idea. Never underestimate your ability to improve proposals.

Avoid hostile, accusatory, or disrespectful language that could undermine your message. Speak from the perspective of how the decision will affect you, your neighbors, or the community as a whole. Debate the merits of the argument, not the arguers. Focus on substantive arguments and refrain from irrelevant personal attacks. “You are idiots if you think this will work” will build walls, while “Have you considered these case studies of similar acts in other areas?” builds a spotlight on your concern that they can’t deny.

Thank the officials for their time and consideration at the end. This shows goodwill. You can also offer to provide follow-up information if requested. Be open to questions from the board or commission to further clarify your position. Do not ask the body questions – by Robert’s Rules of Order they are not supposed to answer any. If you have questions, call their office or email them before the meeting. They might address it at the meeting. But asking questions in the meetings makes you use up your limited time without gain.

Making your voice heard is an important way to shape the future of your community. Don't be afraid to speak up - your civic participation matters as much as your vote.

Christian M. Hartley is a 40-year Alaskan resident with over 25 years of public safety experience and public service. He runs a freelance business, Big Lake Writer, from home in Big Lake that he shares with his wife of 19 years and their three teenage sons.