Welcome! Whether you're joining your first virtual public meeting or you're a seasoned attendee, this guide will walk you through how to participate in online meetings hosted through PublicInput.com.
What is PublicInput?
PublicInput is a platform that helps local governments host virtual public meetings, gather community feedback, and keep you informed about projects in your area. You might use it to:
Join a live meeting or watch a meeting recording
Submit comments or questions
Take surveys
Stay updated on local projects
Now let's get started!
📅 How to Register for a Meeting
Note: Registration requirements may vary by meeting.
1. Locate the Meeting Page:
Visit the hosting organization’s engagement portal (e.g., engage.cityname.gov) or use the direct link provided via email, text, or social media.
2. Access the Registration Section:
Look for a registration form or button labeled “Register,” “Sign Up,” or “RSVP.”
3. Complete the Registration Form:
Fill in details such as:
Your name
Email address
Phone number (if applicable)
Preferred attendance method (if offered)
Additional questions or comments
4. Request to Speak (Optional):
If public comment is allowed, you may be able to request to speak or select specific agenda items during registration.
5. Submit Your Registration:
Click submit to finalize your registration.
6. Confirmation:
You'll receive an email with meeting details, including the date, time, link, and access instructions.
💻 How to Join a Meeting
1. Find the Meeting Link:
You may receive it via email, text, or from your local government’s website or social channels.
2. Access the Meeting Page:
Go to the provided link. If registration is required, enter your details before the meeting loads.
3. View the Meeting:
The meeting video will appear on the page within 30 minutes of the scheduled start time. If enabled, it will begin automatically once the host joins.
Note: Not all meetings include video. Check the event details for alternate participation options, like phone or comment forms.
🚨 How to Participate
Participation options depend on how the meeting is set up. If an option isn’t visible, it may be disabled, or the comment period may have ended.
🗣 Comment or Ask Questions
Use the comment box beside the live stream
Type your comment or question
Your input may be addressed during the meeting or added to the public record
📢 Listen to the Meeting by Phone
Dial the phone number and the 4-digit PIN in the meeting description. If you do not see a PIN listed, you can bypass the PIN step.
Enter the 4-digit PIN (if required).
Listen to the prompt and press the number associated with your meeting. If there are no other active meetings, this number will be 1.
📞 Leave a Recorded Comment
Dial the meeting phone number.
Enter the 4-digit PIN.
Press 2 to leave a recorded comment. Your message may be played during the meeting or added to the public record.
🎤 Join the Speaker Queue
Dial the meeting phone number and enter the meeting code.
Press * (star) to access options.
Press 3 to join the speaker queue.
While in the queue:
Wait for the moderator to call on you
State your name and speak within the time limit (typically 2–3 minutes)
You'll be muted again after your comment
♿ Accessibility and Support
Meetings may include closed captioning or language interpretation
If you need special accommodations, reach out using the contact info listed on the meeting page
For help with technical issues, visit our Support Center or email support@publicinput.com
🎉 After the Meeting
Visit the same meeting page to view recordings, if available
You may also see public comments and follow-ups
Stay engaged by subscribing to updates for related projects
🌟 You Did It!
Congratulations! You've successfully participated in a public meeting on PublicInput. Thank you for sharing your voice and helping shape your community's future.