You might want to get a feel for public decision making by visiting places where information is gathered. Watch your local newspaper for a notice of meetings and hearings of councils, boards and commissions. Attend several meetings as an observer. This gives you first hand information on how that particular body operates. Another way to start is to visit your state or federal representative or senator.
Most state legislators are in their home offices on Fridays.
Your newspaper will usually announce when federal legislators will be in your area. Check the phone book for a listing of a legislator's office in your community. Ask to be placed on their mailing list. Most legislators have some printed materials that they send to their constituents. Follow the visit with a thank you letter.