Public policy is shaped by those who show up
Public policy is shaped by those who show up. But it’s also pretty intimidating… right? It doesn’t have to be! If you’re passionate about an issue and know what to expect, giving public comment can feel more rewarding and empowering than scary.
I like to start by looking at the agenda to see what’s on the docket for the evening. I want to know when to show up, how much time I’ll have to keep rewriting what I want to say, and when I should start to get nervous. Agendas are usually posted on the commission calendar one week before the scheduled meeting.
So, when it’s time, what happens when you give a verbal public comment? You’ll walk up to the podium, shake off the butterflies, adjust the microphone to where it feels comfortable, and begin. You’ll have 3 minutes. A small light to your right will guide your time: green means go, yellow means you have 1 minute left, and red means you’re out of time.
Here’s a simple recipe for making the most of those 3 minutes:
Start with your name, where you live (it can be general, providing your address is optional), and if you are speaking on behalf of a group or organization, state your affiliation.
Show appreciation to staff and/or commissioners for their work on this topic.
The meat of it all: tell your story! Why did you show up today? Think about your vision for Bozeman and how decision-makers can help us get there.
BONUS: Connect your experience to a specific policy idea, like recommending stronger wetland setbacks or encouraging streams and wetlands to count as community park space.
Remember, your public comment can be whatever you want it to be: personal, professional, heartfelt, or even funny. You could even get up there, put your phone speaker to the mic, and play a clip from Parks and Rec. Those 3 minutes are yours.
Once you’re done, you can thank the commission for their time, walk away, and give yourself a pat on the back! Public speaking isn’t easy, but your voice makes a real impact.
If public speaking REALLY isn’t your thing, no worries, you can email your comment to comment@bozeman.net. It can be a one-liner in the body of the email, or a big, long attached letter on fancy letterhead. Here are a few from the most recent Commission work session about natural resources and Bozeman’s building code: