Write a public comment you feel ready to deliver

How this works

1. Pick your meeting type so the greeting matches the setting.
2. Type the issue or agenda item you want to address.
3. Choose whether you support, oppose, or have mixed views.
4. Write 2 to 5 short points. One idea per line works best.
5. Set the time limit and your speaking pace.
6. Click Generate. Read the preview. Adjust and regenerate until it feels right.

Your draft saves to the browser automatically. You can come back to it later or load it on the same device.

What makes a strong public comment

• Be specific. Name the agenda item, resolution number, or project. Vague comments are harder for officials to act on.
• Lead with your ask. Tell them what you want in the first two sentences.
• Use your own words. Officials can tell when a comment is personal. A short personal story is more powerful than a long generic statement.
• Stay respectful. You can disagree strongly without being rude. Meeting chairs are more likely to let you finish.
• Practice out loud. Read your script once or twice before the meeting. Mark where you want to pause.

Common mistakes

• Writing an essay instead of a script. If it takes more than 4 minutes to read, cut it down.
• Covering too many topics. Pick one issue per comment.
• Forgetting to state your name and city. Some meetings require this for the record.
• Reading every word with no pauses. Slow down at key points so they land.
• Not checking the actual time limit. Some meetings cut you off at 2 minutes even if the agenda says 3.

Scenario walkthrough

Situation: Your city council is voting on a new apartment building next to an elementary school. You are worried about traffic and safety.

What to enter:

• Meeting type: City Council
• Topic: Proposed 80-unit apartment building at Oak and 5th
• Position: I oppose this
• Key points: Traffic study misses school drop-off hours. Sidewalks on Oak are already narrow. The neighborhood plan calls for 3-story max, this is 5.
• Time limit: 3 minutes

The drafter turns this into a script that opens with your name and address, states your opposition, walks through each point, and closes with a clear request to the council.

Questions people ask

What if I only have 1 minute?

Use just 2 key points. The drafter will show a word count target. Practice cutting your comment down until it fits.

Can I use this for written comments?

Yes. Generate your comment, then copy it into your city's online form or email. Remove the time markers if you do not need them.

Does this work for HOA meetings?

Yes. Pick "HOA / Neighborhood Association" as the meeting type. The greeting and closing will match that setting.

Is my data sent anywhere?

No. Everything runs in your browser. Drafts are stored only on your device. There are no accounts, no tracking, and no external requests.

Before you go

• Check the meeting agenda for the exact item number or title.
• Confirm the time limit. Some meetings allow 2 minutes, others 3 or 5.
• Arrive early. Sign up for public comment if there is a sheet.
• Bring a printed copy of your script. Phones can be hard to read from under bright lights.
• Have a shorter backup version in case the chair cuts the time.