Tips for Testifying

Tips for Testifying

Please keep in mind that public testimony is part of the permanent record and plays an important part in the process. Therefore, it should be concise and focus on the issues.

Listed below are suggestions to help make your testimony successful.

Be Familiar with the Process

• Know the location. Where is the hearing room, the meeting or hearing time? Times are posted on the agenda prior to public hearings and meetings. Times are subject to change, so please check before leaving for the day’s hearing. Specifically, check to make sure the item in which you are interested has not been removed from the agenda.
• Presentation materials for each agenda item are usually available online prior to the Public Hearing or Meeting.
• On the day of the hearing, Speaker Sign-In Sheets and agendas will be available outside of the hearing room. 
• If you cannot stay to actually testify, submission of the Speaker Sheet will ensure that your position is part of the official record.
• If possible, attend a hearing before you testify to become familiar with the process and room layout. If you cannot attend a hearing, you can watch previous hearings on YouTube.

Be Focused and Succinct in your Testimony

• If possible, when you are called to testify, give copies of your testimony to staff before or after your presentation.
• For the record, state your name, address, and the organization or group you represent. State whether you support or oppose the proposed project and briefly explain your position. Keep in mind that you have three minutes to testify, and therefore consider preparing an outline or summary of your most important points so that you testify within the given time.
• Focus your testimony on information and facts that relate to the issues.   How does this project enhance (or detract) from the community? Will this project be a good neighbor? Does it fit in the overall character of the community? Will it impact fire, water, traffic, schools, etc? 

And Finally, Be Respectful

• When drafting and delivering your testimony, please be respectful of the elected officials, the applicant, and other members of the public. Please do not interrupt the proceedings.
• Planning Commissions - Please keep in mind that, Commissioners are volunteers dedicating a considerable portion of their week to hearings. Their mandate is to consider the merits of every application. It’s a lot of work for no pay. Be appreciative of their commitment.

Want to know more? Call or email us with questions:

Straightforward Communication, LLC

Tina Francone, President/CEO

(720) 989-9662

tina@straightforwardcommunication.com

www.straightforwardcommunication.com