How to Write a City Newsletter
Tuesday, July 25th, 2006 
When writing a city newsletter it’s important to consider both your audience and the purpose of the newsletter. Chances are that you want to provide residents with pertinent information about not only what’s going on in your city but community events and important city council issues, among others. Below are a few tips on how to make your city newsletter informative yet interesting.
Use news compilations. Give your readers short summaries of the most recent and important city news. You should only write a few sentences for each news items. You do not want readers to skip important information because the sections are lengthy.
Tell your readers about legislation and upcoming city council votes. Include information about when city council meetings are held and how those interested in particular issues can make their opinions known to the council.
Include an attention-getting city calendar for upcoming events. A good way to get people to pay attention to a calendar is to include pictures. For example, if your city holds an annual downtown festival, add pictures to your calendar from the previous year’s festival to show readers what takes place at the event.
Consider including positive city statistics in your newsletter. For example, include statistics on how your city has reduced overall smog levels. Perhaps mention how the city’s crime rate has dropped from previous years. You want readers to be well-informed about their city and to know the latest numbers in regards to city issues like crime and pollution.
Answer frequently asked questions. Chances are that some of your readers have general questions about city operations such as what day(s) trash is picked up and how to obtain certain city permits. Write down some of the most common questions people have and provide both the questions and answers in your newsletter.