First, there’s no right way to make a public comment. However, whether arguing on behalf or against an issue, a strong public comment comes from an informed place. This means researching the issues and maybe even writing a script. If you reference a news article or something you read online, consider citing a reliable source.* And feel free to communicate personal experiences, as long as the connection to the issue is clear and constructive.

Determine your comment time limit (see bottom of page) and develop a script or outline that can be shared in the time allowed. Some meetings are more informal and lack firm time restrictions. Others, like City Commission meetings, have a strict 3 minute limit. In this case, rehearsing your message aloud with a timer can be helpful. Ask yourself: Was I able to clearly communicate my message in the time allowed? Again, there’s no one way to make a comment–if you’re familiar with the issues and feel comfortable speaking off-script, then go for it.

* What is a reliable source?

Sometimes there are multiple opportunities to provide a public comment. Having an agenda in hand helps you know when those times are expected. If the meeting doesn’t have an agenda, don’t be afraid to ask someone or raise your hand and ask the committee. If you’re commenting on a specific item on the agenda, the comment period directly after that item has been discussed would be the appropriate time to make your comment. Alternatively, there may also be an open-comment period, allowing you to make statements unrelated to the agenda. Again, if you’re confused, don’t be afraid to ask for clarification.

Lining up for public comment can look different, depending on the meeting location, or if you’re watching online. Some locations have a smaller attendance area and you may simply be called upon in the audience after raising your hand.

Other meetings may require you to get in a public comment line–when you are next in line for comment, you will be required to sign your name and address for the public record.

If you are commenting by phone, proceed to Step 4 for instructions.

Again, a public comment can look different, depending on the meeting format. Smaller Boards and Committees may call on you in the audience, where you might be free to offer a more informal comment or even have a conversation.

Meetings in City Hall’s Commission Chambers will typically require you to make a comment in three minutes or less. After waiting in line, approach the lectern and state your name and where you live. You can provide your legal address, but you can also just say “Kalamazoo.” Afterwards, a countdown clock will begin. The clock is visible throughout your public comment, which is helpful for managing your time. When your time has ended, the microphone will turn off and you can return to the audience.

Board and Committee members maintain neutral reactions while listening to public comments, so don’t be confused when you don’t see visible feedback.

And remember, public meetings are recorded and streamed online for purposes of accessibility, transparency, and the public record.

*Comment by Phone: Guide

Head to the bottom of the page to see public comment time limits for different Boards and Commissions.

Now that you’ve made your public comment, you might be asking yourself, now what? We have a guide for that too.

Now What? (Guide)

3 minutes (firm)

2 minutes (firm)

3 minutes (firm)

No firm time limit

4 minutes (firm)

Coming soon…