Sharing your perspective: Public Commenting & Why it Matters
A thriving community is made through the input and ideas of everyone in the region. Your voice matters and has a place in helping to create plans, rules and regulations that impact the world around you. When it comes to making a difference on an issue, some of the first steps that come to mind include voting and donating, but another action to consider is submitting a public comment.
There are a variety of projects that have public comment opportunities, such as enhancements to public parks, where to build walking and bike paths, roadway improvements and more. Learn about current opportunities for public comments through PlanRVA.
What is public commenting?
A public comment is an official comment made to a government agency about proposed regulation that’s under consideration. Under the Administrative Act of 1946, residents can take part in the rule-making process by submitting relevant information or feedback through public comments.
People have a right to share public comments. Federal, along with state and local organizations, are required to provide an opportunity for members of the community to voice their opinions, stances and concerns about proposed legislation, regulations and projects.
Who can participate?
Everyone. There are no restrictions on who can make their voice heard. However, comments from those who live in the community where the proposed rules or regulations impact are often prioritized.
How do I make a public comment?
PlanRVA works to make public commenting as easy and accessible as possible.
- In-person comments. If a member of the community wishes to speak at an in-person event, they will be asked to sign in at the start of the meeting sharing name, business (if applicable) and the issue they’d like to comment on at the meeting.
- Virtual comments. Once you’ve registered for the Zoom meeting and joined, you’ll be able to submit comments through the Zoom platform. They will be read during the public comment section of the agenda.
- Submit comments. Community members can submit comments by attending the meeting in-person or virtually. Comments and questions may also be submitted via email by 4 p.m. the business day preceding the meeting. These comments will be shared with members of the public body within a reasonable time period and included in the administrative record.
What do public comments influence?
Public comments can inspire change in your community as agencies and localities are required to review and consider public comments before decisions are made. Comments can help leaders better understand the resistance or acceptance of an issue and allows people with lived experience to share their views on certain matters.
Making the world a better place involves everyone participating in how rules and regulations are made.
It may seem scary to submit a public comment, but don’t worry: Public officials really want to hear from you. Never assume that your public comment won’t make a difference because it could be what leads to better and more fair decisions for the entire community.
Interested in other opportunities to advocate for change in your community? Points of Light, a nonprofit that works to inspire, equip and mobilize people to take action that changes the world, has a great guide for using your voice to advance causes you care about.
For more information on how to participate in public comments, check out our infographic here.
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