60 seconds at the mic

at a councilmeeting with my favorite posterboard.
Nearly every night, the city has meetings about stuff that affects our neighborhoods and daily lives in a huge way. Often, we don't know about them till a packet gets stapled up on the local telephone poles announcing something like large new construction, or a change of use "coffeeshop is going to turn into a bar with extended hours." Whether you show up just to say "i like it" or to submit a 30 page analysis, it's important! Elected officials need to hear from a variety of residents. Helps them see how on (or off) base they are with their votes.
I had no idea how nervous I'd be till I approached the mic and podium. Hands were shaking, voice warbly, but I made it through. Public speaking got easier with practice and with a few basic ideas.

Average Gals Guide to Public Speaking at City Meetings

Before the meeting:
1.) Research First, find out exactly what is being discussed and voted on - often it is a specific facet of a project, like the design, scale, hours, or transportation impacts. Share your general opinion, but speak to the issues being voted on on that night as well.
2.) Bullet list your ideas.
You can read a well-crafted letter word-for-word, but, the bullet list makes it easier to keep it conversational, hit your points, and attempt eye contact with the board.
3.) Read comments outloud. Time yourself. Edit down if needed to fit in the time. If you have a friend nearby, practice on them.

Format for Comments:
* Say your name and city you live in. If you are a homeowner/business owner, mention this.
* Applaud progress that has been made.
* State your point at the beginning and end if possible (e.g. I am here to support the new fish market... end with "please vote for new fish market")
* Visual aids help.
* Make eye contact.
* Don't say mean things. (Mean comments about the "other side" eat up your speaking time and distract from your plea.)
* Be Patient. Cities take a long time to change.
* Wait for the vote so you know if you need to come back next week with a posse.

After the meeting, pat yourself on the back, take a walk, get some thai food have an ice cream cone. You deserve it.