City Councils usually have several public hearings on anissue before they may legally pass a new ordinance. Anyone may speak, andmany do, though in comparison to elections the number is small. Youropinions carry, proportionally, much more weight in a hearing with ahundred speakers than in an election with half a million voters. In order to let everyone have their say, speakers are normally given atime limit, usually three minutes. While memorized speeches make the bestimpression, few can manage that.
Most people read from prepared text ornotes.
Public speaking is not for everybody. You need confidence in order to standup and speak in front of so many people, not to mention the Mayor andCouncil Members themselves. If you get so nervous in such circumstances thatyou can't speak, then this is not for you. There are a number of Smokers' Rights organizations you can join. In addition, there are frequently State or local organizations in your area.