How to Make Your Voice Heard
Your guide to testifying at City Council hearings and contacting your representatives
Find the Relevant Hearing
City Council committees hold public hearings on legislation. Check the meetings calendar to find upcoming hearings on topics you care about. Each hearing agenda lists the bills being discussed.
Register to Testify
You can sign up to testify in advance through the NYC Council's online portal. Registration typically opens a few days before the hearing.
Register to Testify Online
The NYC Council accepts testimony sign-ups through their official portal.
Go to NYC Council Testimony PortalPrepare Your Testimony
Keep it focused and personal. Here's a simple structure that works well:
State your name, where you live (neighborhood or district), and any relevant affiliation.
2. State your position clearly
"I support / oppose / have concerns about [bill number]..."
3. Give your reason
One to two sentences on why you hold this position.
4. Share a personal story or data point
This is the most powerful part. How does this issue affect you, your family, or your community?
5. Make a specific ask
"I urge the committee to pass / amend / reject this bill because..."
Oral testimony is typically limited to 2-3 minutes. Practice beforehand to stay within the time.
Testify or Submit Written Testimony
You have three options:
- In person: Attend the hearing at City Hall (250 Broadway) or the listed location.
- Virtually: Many hearings offer remote participation via Zoom. Check the meeting details for virtual links.
- Written testimony: Submit your statement online. Written testimony is accepted before, during, and typically for 72 hours after a hearing. It becomes part of the official public record.
Contact Your Council Member
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I testify if I'm not a resident of the council member's district?
Yes. Any NYC resident can testify at any City Council hearing, regardless of district. The hearing is about the legislation, not the committee chair's district.
How long can I speak?
Typically 2-3 minutes for oral testimony. The chair may adjust this depending on the number of speakers. Written testimony has no length limit.
Can I submit testimony after the hearing?
Usually yes. The Council typically keeps the record open for 72 hours after a hearing. Check the specific hearing notice for the deadline.
Is my testimony public?
Yes. Both oral and written testimony become part of the official public record and may be published on the Council's website.
What if I can't attend in person or virtually?
Written testimony is just as valid. You can also call your Council Member's district office directly to share your views. Their staff tracks constituent feedback on pending legislation.
Other Ways to Engage
Your local Community Board discusses neighborhood issues, land use, and city services. Find your board at nyc.gov/community-boards.
For non-legislative complaints (noise, potholes, sanitation), call 311 or visit 311.nyc.gov.
The NYC Civic Engagement Commission runs participatory budgeting and engagement programs. Learn more at nyc.gov/civicengagement.