The Big Sky Way: Power to the people 

How public comment can influence the actions of governing bodies 

By Daniel Bierschwale EBS COLUMNIST 

Despite the complexities and perceptions of government in our country, the truth is that power ultimately resides with the people. All citizens have the potential to enact change and shape the course of their communities. Beyond the ballot, ordinary citizens can influence government decisions and steer the trajectory of their communities. Public comment plays a crucial role in this democratic process. 

Public comment allows the public to provide valuable insights and perspectives on topics, and voice their opinions on policies, regulations and programs. It promotes transparency, enhances accountability and helps identify issues and solutions that decision makers may not have considered. 

It is also steeped in American history. The First Amendment of the U.S. Constitution provides protection to and opportunity for free speech in public forums. In 1787, the delegates to the Constitutional Convention made a clear and unequivocal decision that government operates most effectively, most reliably, and is most accountable when it is subject to public scrutiny. Article II of the Montana Constitution outlines freedom of expression and ensures citizens can engage and influence government agencies before decisions are made. 

Public comment is input made by an interested person which can support or oppose rules or regulations. A comment can be as brief as a sentence. It can include data, views or arguments. It can be a written statement received during the public comment period by letter or email, or an oral statement received on the record during a public meeting. 

The public has a legal right to provide input on certain proposed government actions. Public comments are not mere formalities, but actually a direct channel between residents and decision makers. While public comment is important on all levels of government, it is the cornerstone of local governance.  

Locally, Big Sky operates within the framework of special purpose districts and county governance. Special purpose districts handle specific public service functions, such as fire protection, transit, or water and sewer management. County governance involves elected officials overseeing broader issues affecting the entire county. To make your voice heard effectively, it’s essential to understand the functions of local government and their impact on your daily life. It’s essential to attend meetings, stay informed about upcoming agendas, and actively participate in public comment sessions related to matters that resonate with you. 

When and how to make effective public comment 

Comments can typically be made during designated periods of meetings, hearing, community forums or online consultations. For instance, members of the public may comment on all active projects in Gallatin County by providing verbal testimony during the hearing, emailing planning@gallatin.mt.gov, or sending physical mail to Gallatin County Planning, 311 W. Main St, Room 108, Bozeman, MT 59715. 

Montana Department of Transportation provides a link on their project pages which allow you to submit a comment on a particular project, such as the US 191/MT 64 Optimization Plan.  

The public meeting of a board or council is considered a “limited public forum,” which means the government can regulate the time, place, and manner of speech. Boards and councils regulate speech through the adoption of rules of procedure and conduct. Check with the organization for their rules to make sure your input is received properly. 

Whether you’re speaking at a local government meeting or sending an email, the same guidelines apply. Speaking to decision makers directly is generally more impactful, unless you’re attempting to share a lot of information with cited references. 

Successful comments include: 

• Intro: Start with your first and last name and where you are from. It is also helpful to decision-makers if you can give a one sentence overview or “ask” for the governing body right at the start. 
• Why: How will this decision impact you personally, and how will it impact the greater good? 
• More detail: Include outside references or your own expertise/view as a member of the public. 
• Closing: Reiterate your position. Thank them for their attention. 

When making comment in person, here are some other tips to be successful: 

• Prepare and research:  Before attending a meeting, thoroughly research the agenda items. Understanding the context and background will help you formulate informed comments. 
• Be concise and clear: You have only a short time to get your point across. Writing out your comment and timing yourself before the meeting will help ensure that you hit all of the points you need within your allotted time.  
• Speak slowly: By speaking slowly, you will be heard and understood by all. The governing body values your testimony and needs to understand what you’re saying in order to record it for the public record. 
• Be polite: This may be difficult to remember because you may be very frustrated with an issue that you’re providing input on. Alienating decision-makers typically does not work in your favor. 
• Connect emotionally: It is important to tell your story and let decision-makers know what the impacts of their actions will be.  
• Collaborate: Join local groups or organizations that share your concerns. Collective voices carry more weight, and collaboration amplifies the impact of our advocacy. 
• Stay engaged: After making public comments, follow up with relevant authorities to express your ongoing interest in the matter. This demonstrates persistence and commitment. 

If you plan on presenting your comment at a public hearing, email your comment beforehand or bring enough copies for each member of the governing body. In your comment, refer to your email or copy so they can follow along. 

Involvement in local governance isn’t just a civic duty, it’s a privilege, a way to shape our shared future. From understanding special purpose districts to engaging with county governance, we have the power to influence important decisions that impact our lives. Public comment connects us with decision makers. By understanding local organizations, preparing effectively and engaging constructively, we ensure our voices resonate where crucial decisions are made. 

Daniel Bierschwale is the Executive Director of the Big Sky Resort Area District (BSRAD). As a dedicated public servant, he is committed to increasing civic engagement and voter education. Many ballot issues impact government services and public funding including subsequent property tax impacts. BSRAD is the local government agency that administers Resort Tax, which offsets property taxes while also funding numerous community-wide nonprofit programs.