Here’s a comprehensive guide to effectively prepare for and deliver a 3-minute city council speech:
Before the Meeting:
- Research and Preparation
- Write out your complete speech and time it (3 minutes = about 350-400 words)
- Practice until you can deliver it in 2:45 to leave buffer time
- Research current council positions on your issue
- Review relevant city documents, codes, or past decisions
- Check the meeting agenda to know when your item comes up
Speech Structure (for 3 minutes):
- 15 seconds: Introduce yourself and state your position
- 30 seconds: Present your main point and why it matters
- 1.5 minutes: Share supporting evidence (data, examples, personal impact)
- 45 seconds: Offer specific solutions or recommendations
- 15 seconds: Strong closing with clear call to action
Delivery Tips:
- Start strong: “Good evening Council Members, I’m [name] from [neighborhood/organization], speaking about [issue].”
- Speak slightly slower than normal conversation
- Make eye contact with council members
- Use clear transitions between points
- End with specific request: “I urge the council to [action]”
Professional Presentation:
- Bring 3 copies of your speech (one for you, council record, and backup)
- Dress professionally or business casual
- Arrive 15-30 minutes early to sign up and get settled
- Turn off phone before speaking
- If using handouts, bring enough for all council members plus staff
Advanced Tips:
- Lead with your most important point – don’t save it for the end
- Use specific numbers and examples rather than generalizations
- Share a brief personal story if relevant
- Acknowledge opposing viewpoints respectfully
- Consider submitting longer written comments to supplement your speech
- Build on (don’t repeat) points made by previous speakers
Common Mistakes to Avoid:
- Going over time (you’ll likely be cut off)
- Reading robotically from your paper
- Getting sidetracked with tangents
- Using hostile or accusatory language
- Speaking too fast when nervous
- Talking about multiple unrelated issues
Follow-up:
- Stay for other speakers on your issue
- Be available if council members have questions
- Thank the council for their time
- Network with other speakers who share your concerns
- Monitor the outcome and next steps
Example Speech:
Opening (15 seconds): “Good evening Council Members. I’m [name], a resident of [neighborhood] for [X] years. I’m here to support the proposed affordable housing development at [location] because our community desperately needs more housing options for working families.”
Main Point (30 seconds): “Currently, 45% of renters in our city are cost-burdened, spending more than a third of their income on housing. I’ve watched longtime neighbors – teachers, nurses, and retail workers – forced to move because they can no longer afford to live here. This project would add 80 new affordable units, helping keep our community diverse and vibrant.”
Evidence & Impact (90 seconds): “Let me share three key benefits of this development:
First, it’s strategically located near two bus lines and within walking distance of both the elementary school and grocery store, making it ideal for working families.
Second, the developer has committed to reserving 20% of units for households earning less than 50% of area median income, addressing our most urgent housing needs.
Third, the project includes green space and a community room, fostering connection between residents and enhancing our neighborhood.
The design also thoughtfully transitions from two stories along residential streets to four stories on the main corridor, respecting neighborhood character while maximizing housing opportunities.”
Call to Action (15 seconds): “I urge you to approve this development. Every month of delay means more families struggling to stay in our community. Let’s show that our city welcomes residents of all income levels. Thank you.”
Additional Tips Specific to Housing Proposals:
- Bring a visual (single page) showing current rental costs vs. average wages
- Reference specific sections of the city’s housing plan this project supports
- Have statistics about local housing need ready if asked questions
- Be prepared to address common concerns like parking and density
- Consider coordinating with other supporters to cover different aspects (some focus on design, others on need, etc.)