The Power of Government Press Releases
In an era where information flows at unprecedented speeds, and polarization is running rampant, government press releases serve as crucial conduits between policymakers and the public.
These official statements, crafted with precision and intent, offer a window into the priorities, achievements, and challenges faced by your governmental organization. Whether announcing new legislation, addressing national crises, local issues, announcing new business development in your community, or celebrating public milestones, when you issue press releases you can play a pivotal role in shaping public perception and fostering transparency.
In this article, designed to help you write, distribute, and gain success through press releases, we will show you how to write a press release for your governmental organization that will get you coverage by the media, give you ideas on topics to write about, provide fill-in-the-blank templates, and show you examples of press releases sent by local government organizations.
Table of Contents
How to Write a Government Press Release
50 Topics to Write a Press Release About for Your Local Government
Government Press Release Templates
Government Press Release Examples
Tips for Writing a Better Governmental Press Release
Why Your Governmental Organization Should Use a Press Release Distribution Service
Writing Effective Press Releases
Press Release Examples Across Several Industries
How to Write a Government Press Release
Writing a government press release involves a clear and structured approach and following the appropriate format to ensure your message is effectively communicated. Follow these steps to craft a compelling and informative press release:
- Understand the Purpose: Determine the primary goal of your press release. Are you announcing new legislation, addressing a crisis, launching a new program, or sharing an achievement? Your purpose will guide the content and tone.
- Craft a Catchy Headline: Create a concise, attention-grabbing headline that summarizes the main point of your announcement. Ensure it is clear and compelling to draw in your audience.
- Write a Strong Lead Paragraph: The first paragraph should provide the most important information. Answer the who, what, when, where, why, and how of your announcement. This section should be engaging and informative to capture immediate interest.
- Provide Supporting Details: In the following paragraphs, expand on the key points introduced in the lead. Include relevant details, statistics, quotes from key officials, and any background information that supports your announcement. Ensure the information is organized logically and flows smoothly.
- Include a Quote: Adding a quote from a relevant official or spokesperson adds authority and a personal touch to your press release. The quote should be insightful and relevant to the announcement.
- Maintain Clarity and Brevity: Use clear and concise language. Avoid jargon and overly technical terms that might confuse your audience. Aim to keep the press release to one page if possible.
- Add a Boilerplate: At the end of your press release, include a boilerplate – a brief paragraph about your government organization. This provides context and background for readers who may not be familiar with your organization.
- Include Contact Information: Provide contact details for someone who can respond to media inquiries. Include their name, phone number, and email address.
- Review and Edit: Proofread your press release carefully to correct any grammatical errors and ensure clarity. Consider having a colleague review it as well.
- Distribute Effectively: Once finalized, distribute your press release through appropriate channels. This may include using a quality press release distribution service like eReleases.com, emailing it to media contacts, posting it on your organization’s website, and sharing it on social media platforms.
By following these steps, you can create a well-structured and impactful press release that effectively communicates your message to the public.
50 Topics to Write a Press Release About for Your Local Government
My guess is that you’re already convinced that sending press releases would generate great publicity. But you’re struggling with ideas to write about. So, here are 50 ideas to write press releases about that are likely to generate public interest and support:
- Ranking Award: Have you been included in a list of best places to live, best places to retire, best college towns, healthiest cities, etc.? These opportunities can bring amazing publicity that can last for years.
- New Business Openings or Expansions: Celebrate the opening of new businesses in the area, highlighting economic growth and job creation.
- Local Hero Recognition: Celebrate individuals in the community who have made significant contributions or shown exceptional bravery.
- Tourism Promotion: Highlight efforts to promote local tourism, including new attractions or marketing campaigns.
- Grant Awards: Announce the receipt of grants for community projects, specifying the purpose and impact of the funding.
- Green Energy Projects: Announce new green energy projects, such as solar panel installations or wind energy initiatives.
- Public Safety Improvements: Detail new measures being implemented to enhance public safety, such as additional police patrols or new traffic lights.
- Housing Developments: Announce the construction of new housing developments aimed at increasing affordable housing options.
- Public Health Campaign: Announce a new public health initiative aimed at improving community wellness, such as a vaccination drive or fitness program.
- Environmental Initiatives: Highlight efforts to improve local environmental conditions, such as tree planting events or recycling programs.
- Local Election Results: Share the outcomes of recent local elections, highlighting key winners and any significant changes.
- Economic Development Plans: Detail strategic plans for local economic development, including new initiatives and partnerships.
- Historic Preservation: Announce efforts to preserve historic buildings or sites, detailing plans and funding sources.
- Budget Approval: Inform the public about the approval of the annual budget, outlining major expenditures and funding priorities.
- Disaster Response and Relief Efforts: Provide updates on disaster relief efforts, including resources available to affected residents and coordination with state and federal agencies.
- New Park Opening: Announce the grand opening of a new community park, detailing its amenities and the date of the opening ceremony.
- Public Transportation Updates: Provide information on changes to public transportation routes, schedules, or new services.
- Road Construction Updates: Inform residents about upcoming road construction projects, including timelines and detour information.
- Disaster Preparedness: Announce new disaster preparedness plans or resources available to residents.
- Technology Upgrades: Announce technology upgrades within the local government, such as new software or online services.
- Community Clean-Up Day: Promote a scheduled community clean-up event, encouraging resident participation.
- Water Conservation Efforts: Highlight new initiatives to promote water conservation and sustainable usage practices.
- Infrastructure Grants: Announce the receipt of grants for infrastructure improvements, detailing specific projects and timelines.
- Public Art Installations: Highlight new public art installations, including artist information and the significance of the artwork.
- Public Utility Upgrades: Inform residents about upgrades or maintenance work on public utilities, such as water or electricity services.
- Senior Services: Announce new services or programs designed to support senior citizens in the community.
- Youth Programs: Introduce new programs aimed at youth development, such as after-school activities or summer camps.
- Public Meeting Schedules: Inform residents about upcoming public meetings, including agendas and how they can participate.
- Local Awards: Announce local government awards received, celebrating achievements and recognitions.
- Traffic Law Changes: Inform the public about new traffic laws or changes to existing regulations.
- Library Services: Promote new services or programs offered by local libraries, such as literacy programs or digital resources.
- Volunteer Opportunities: Highlight opportunities for residents to volunteer in various community projects and events.
- Neighborhood Watch Programs: Announce the formation of new neighborhood watch programs aimed at enhancing community safety.
- Cultural Festival: Promote an upcoming cultural festival, detailing events, performances, and activities planned.
- Small Business Support: Announce new programs aimed at supporting small businesses, such as grants or training workshops.
- Recreation Programs: Introduce new recreational programs and activities available to residents of all ages.
- Health and Wellness Programs: Promote new health and wellness programs available to residents, such as fitness classes or nutrition workshops.
- Community Survey Results: Share results from community surveys, highlighting resident feedback and planned actions.
- Animal Control Updates: Provide updates on animal control measures, such as new ordinances or available services.
- Educational Workshops: Promote educational workshops available to residents, covering a variety of topics such as finance or technology.
- Environmental Clean-Up Projects: Highlight efforts to clean up and restore local natural areas, such as rivers or parks.
- Recycling Programs: Promote new or expanded recycling programs, detailing what can be recycled and how to participate.
- Community Partnerships: Announce new partnerships between the local government and community organizations.
- Transportation Infrastructure Projects: Provide details on major transportation infrastructure projects, such as new bridges or road expansions.
- Civic Engagement Initiatives: Announce initiatives to increase civic engagement, such as voter registration drives or public forums.
- Cultural Heritage Celebrations: Promote events celebrating the cultural heritage and diversity of the community.
- Public Health Alerts: Issue alerts about public health concerns, such as disease outbreaks or health advisories, including prevention tips and resources.
- Holiday Events: Promote upcoming holiday events, such as parades, fireworks, or community gatherings.
- Emergency Response Improvements: Announce enhancements to emergency response systems, such as new equipment or training programs.
- Local School Renovations: Announce renovations or expansions to local schools, including details about funding and expected completion dates.
Government Press Release Templates
I don’t know about you, but I find it’s always easier to write when someone has created a template into which I can just plug my information. Here are ten for you to make your own.
Template #1: Best Places to Live Announcement
| FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE [City/Town] Honored in [Publication’s] “Best Places to Live” List [City/Town], [Date] – The [City/Town] of [Name] is thrilled to announce that it has been named one of the “Best Places to Live” by [Publication], a leading national publication. This prestigious recognition highlights the community’s exceptional quality of life, vibrant economy, and outstanding public services. “We are incredibly proud to be recognized as one of the best places to live,” said Mayor [Name]. “This honor reflects the hard work and dedication of our residents, businesses, and local government in making [City/Town] a wonderful place to call home.”
In addition to these factors, [City/Town] was praised for its community spirit and initiatives that promote sustainability, inclusivity, and innovation. “We are committed to continuing our efforts to enhance the quality of life for all our residents,” added Mayor [Name]. “This recognition motivates us to keep striving for excellence in every aspect of our community.” Residents and visitors can learn more about why [City/Town] is one of the best places to live by visiting our official website at [website]. For more information, contact: |
Template #2: Company Building New Facility
| FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE [City/Town] Welcomes [Company Name] to Our Community with Major New Facility [City/Town], [Date] – The [City/Town] of [Name] is excited to announce that [Company Name], a leading [industry/sector] company, has chosen our community as the site for their new major facility. This significant investment underscores [City/Town]’s appeal as a prime location for business growth and innovation. “We are thrilled to welcome [Company Name] to [City/Town],” said Mayor [Name]. “Their decision to build a major facility here is a testament to the economic vitality and strategic advantages our community offers. This new facility will bring tremendous opportunities for job creation and economic development.” The new [type of facility] facility, located at [address/location], is expected to:
“We chose [City/Town] for its strategic location, skilled workforce, and supportive community environment,” said [Executive Name], [Title] of [Company Name]. “We look forward to becoming an integral part of this vibrant community and contributing to its continued growth and prosperity.” Construction of the new facility is set to begin [start date], with completion expected by [completion date]. [Company Name] will host a groundbreaking ceremony on July 2024. to celebrate this milestone, and all community members are invited to attend. For more information about the project and job opportunities, visit [website] or contact: [Name] |
Template 3: Environmental Initiative
| FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE [City/Town] Announces Major Environmental Initiative to Combat Climate Change [City/Town], [Date] – The [City/Town] of [Name] today unveiled a major environmental initiative designed to combat climate change and promote sustainability. The plan, titled “[Initiative Name],” includes a series of projects aimed at reducing carbon emissions, conserving natural resources, and enhancing green spaces. “Our city is committed to leading the way in environmental stewardship,” said Mayor [Name]. “This initiative reflects our dedication to creating a healthier, more sustainable future for all residents.” Highlights of the initiative include:
For more information, visit [website] or contact: |
Template 4: Economic Development Plan
| FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE [City/Town] Unveils Strategic Economic Development Plan [City/Town], [Date] – The [City/Town] of [Name] is proud to announce the launch of a strategic economic development plan designed to foster growth and create new opportunities for residents and businesses. The plan, titled “[Plan Name],” focuses on attracting new industries, supporting small businesses, and investing in workforce development. “This plan is a roadmap to a vibrant and prosperous future for our community,” said [Name], Director of Economic Development. “We are committed to creating an environment where businesses can thrive and residents can enjoy a high quality of life.” Key components of the plan include:
For more information, visit [website] or contact: [Name] [Title] [Phone Number] [Email Address] |
Template 5: Housing Development Announcement
| FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE [City/Town] Announces New Affordable Housing Development [City/Town], [Date] – The [City/Town] of [Name] today announced plans for a new affordable housing development aimed at providing quality housing options for low- and moderate-income families. The project, named “[Project Name],” will include [number] units and a range of amenities to support residents. “We are addressing the critical need for affordable housing in our community,” said [Name], Housing Director. “This development will provide safe, affordable homes and help build a stronger, more inclusive community.” Project highlights include:
For more information, visit [website] or contact: |
Template 6: Cultural Festival Promotion
| FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE [City/Town] to Host Annual Cultural Festival [City/Town], [Date] – The [City/Town] of [Name] is thrilled to announce the upcoming annual cultural festival, “[Festival Name],” celebrating the rich and diverse heritage of our community. The festival will take place on [dates] at [location], featuring a variety of performances, food vendors, and family-friendly activities. “This festival is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the unique cultures that make up our community,” said [Name], Cultural Affairs Director. “We invite everyone to join us for a weekend of fun, food, and festivities.” Festival highlights include:
For more details, visit [website] or contact: |
Template 7: Public Safety Improvement Announcement
| FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE [City/Town] Enhances Public Safety Measures with New Initiatives [City/Town], [Date] – The [City/Town] of [Name] is pleased to announce the implementation of several new public safety initiatives aimed at ensuring the safety and security of our residents. These initiatives include increased police patrols, the installation of new traffic lights, and enhanced community policing efforts. “Public safety is our top priority, and these new measures will help us protect our residents more effectively,” said Police Chief [Name]. “We are committed to creating a safe and secure environment for everyone in our community.” New public safety measures include:
For more information, visit [website] or contact: |
Template 8: Senior Services Announcement
| FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE [City/Town] Expands Services for Senior Citizens [City/Town], [Date] – The [City/Town] of [Name] is excited to announce the expansion of services and programs designed to support senior citizens in our community. These new services include home health care assistance, transportation services, and social activities aimed at improving the quality of life for our elderly residents. “We are dedicated to ensuring that our senior citizens receive the care and support they need,” said [Name], Director of Senior Services. “These new programs will provide valuable resources and enhance the well-being of our older adults.” New services for seniors include:
For more information, visit [website] or contact: [Name] [Title] [Phone Number] [Email Address] |
Template 9: Disaster Response and Relief Efforts
| FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE [City/Town Name] Announces Comprehensive Disaster Response and Relief Efforts [City/Town], [Date] – In response to the recent [type of disaster], the [City/Town] of [Name] has launched a comprehensive disaster response and relief effort to assist affected residents. Mayor [Name] announced today that a coordinated plan involving local emergency services, state agencies, and community organizations is now in place to provide immediate assistance and long-term support. “We are committed to helping our residents recover from this devastating event,” said Mayor [Name]. “Our priority is to ensure the safety and well-being of everyone in our community.” Key components of the relief effort include:
Residents are encouraged to stay informed through the city’s website and social media channels for the latest updates and information. For more information, contact: |
Template 10: Public Health Campaign
| FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE [City/Town] Launches New Public Health Initiative to Boost Community Wellness [City/Town], [Date] – The [City/Town] of [Name] is excited to announce the launch of a new public health initiative aimed at improving the overall wellness of its residents. The campaign, titled “[Campaign Name],” focuses on promoting healthy lifestyles, increasing vaccination rates, and providing resources for mental health support. “This initiative represents our commitment to the health and well-being of our community,” said [Name], Director of Public Health. “We are providing residents with the tools and information they need to lead healthier lives.” Key elements of the campaign include:
For more details, visit [website] or contact: |
Government Press Release Examples
Are you looking for examples of press releases to see how other government agencies and organizations handled key issues with the press? Here are ten examples of actual press releases from governmental organizations:
Example #1: Major company investing in community
Example #2: City named a best place to live
Example #3: Small town announces preservation initiative
Example #4: Ancient history portrayed in town
Example #5: Town named one of the coolest towns
Example #6: New retailer opening in town
Example #7: Country fair opening announcement
Example #8: Library wins award
Example #9: School district adds gun safety program
Example #10: Solar power announcement
Tips for Writing a Better Governmental Press Release
Now that we’ve covered the basics, here are 20 tips to make sure your press release gets the attention it deserves.
- Know Your Audience: Understand who you are writing for and tailor your message to their interests and concerns. Consider what information is most relevant and how it will impact them.
- Be Clear and Concise: Use straightforward language and avoid jargon. Get to the point quickly to ensure your message is easily understood.
- Craft a Compelling Headline: Create a headline that grabs attention and clearly conveys the main point of your press release. A strong headline increases the likelihood that your release will be read.
- Start with a Strong Lead: The first sentence should provide the most important information and encourage readers to continue. Ensure it answers the who, what, when, where, why, and how.
- Use Quotes Effectively: Include quotes from relevant officials or experts to add authority and a personal touch to your release. Make sure the quotes are meaningful and support the main message.
- Provide Specific Details: Include concrete details and statistics to back up your statements. This adds credibility and helps journalists write their stories.
- Stay Objective: Present the information in a factual, unbiased manner. Avoid overly promotional language or opinions.
- Include a Call to Action: Clearly state what you want your audience to do after reading the release, whether it’s attending an event, visiting a website, or contacting someone for more information.
- Use Subheadings and Bullet Points: Break up the text with subheadings and bullet points to make it easier to read. This helps highlight key information and improves readability.
- Provide Contact Information: Always include contact details for someone who can answer questions from the media or the public. Make it easy for journalists to follow up.
- Incorporate Visuals: Where possible, include images, infographics, or links to videos to make your press release more engaging and visually appealing.
- Proofread and Edit: Carefully review your press release for any errors or unclear phrasing. A well-edited release reflects professionalism and attention to detail.
- Follow Formatting Guidelines: Use standard press release formatting, including a dateline, clear paragraphs, and a boilerplate. This ensures your release looks professional and is easily recognizable to journalists.
- Provide Background Information: Include a brief background or context if the announcement is part of a larger ongoing issue or project. This helps readers understand the broader significance.
- Be Timely: Issue your press release at an appropriate time to maximize its impact. Consider the news cycle and avoid releasing it during major competing news events.
- Follow Up: After sending out your press release, follow up with key media contacts to ensure they received it and see if they have any questions or need additional information.
- Leverage Social Media: Share your press release on social media platforms to reach a broader audience and engage with the community directly.
- Monitor Coverage: Keep track of media coverage resulting from your press release to understand its impact and to plan future communications strategies.
- Tailor to Media Outlets: Customize your press release slightly for different media outlets to better fit their audience and style, increasing the chance of coverage.
- Practice Ethical Standards: Ensure all information is accurate and truthful. Upholding high ethical standards builds trust with your audience and the media.
Why Your Governmental Organization Should Use a Press Release Distribution Service to Send Out Your Press Releases
Using a press release distribution service like eReleases.com offers numerous advantages for effectively communicating your government organization’s messages to the public. Here are several compelling reasons why you should consider this option:
- 1. Broad Reach and Targeted Distribution: With a press release distribution service, you can ensure your message reaches a wide audience across various platforms, including print, online, and broadcast media. eReleases.com has established networks with a vast array of media outlets, journalists, and influencers. Additionally, they offer targeted distribution options, allowing you to reach specific demographics or industries relevant to your announcement.
- 2. Professional Quality and Credibility: Using a service like eReleases.com can enhance your organization’s credibility. They ensure your press release adheres to industry standards in terms of formatting, language, and style, increasing the likelihood of media coverage. Professional distribution signals to journalists that your announcement is newsworthy and trustworthy.
- 3. Enhanced SEO and Online Visibility: Press release distribution services often include SEO optimization. By using strategic keywords and linking back to your government website, eReleases.com can help improve your online visibility. This increases the chances that your press release will appear in search engine results, driving more traffic to your website and enhancing your online presence.
- 4. Time and Resource Efficiency: Distributing a press release manually can be time-consuming and labor-intensive. eReleases.com handles the entire distribution process, freeing up your staff to focus on other important tasks. This is particularly beneficial if you have limited resources, allowing you to achieve wide-reaching communication without the need for extensive in-house capabilities.
- 5. Detailed Reporting and Analytics: One of the key benefits of using a service like eReleases.com is access to detailed reporting and analytics. You can track the performance of your press release, including metrics such as media pickups, online visibility, and engagement. This data provides valuable insights into the effectiveness of your communication strategy and helps inform future press releases.
- 6. Increased Media Engagement: eReleases.com maintains relationships with a network of journalists and media professionals who trust their content. Distributing your press release through such a service increases the likelihood of media engagement and coverage. Journalists are more likely to open and read a press release from a known and reputable distribution service.
- 7. Crisis Management and Timely Dissemination: In times of crisis or urgent announcements, timely and effective communication is crucial. eReleases.com can rapidly disseminate your press release to ensure the public and media are promptly informed. This can be critical in managing public perception and providing accurate information quickly.
By leveraging the capabilities of a press release distribution service like eReleases.com, you can maximize your reach, enhance your credibility, and achieve your communication goals more efficiently and effectively.
Writing Effective Press Releases
Writing an effective government press release involves understanding your audience, crafting clear and compelling content, and leveraging professional distribution services like eReleases.com to maximize reach and impact.
By following structured guidelines, using targeted and timely dissemination, and incorporating detailed reporting and analytics, you can enhance the credibility and visibility of your announcements.
Whether promoting new initiatives, celebrating community achievements, or managing crises, these strategies will help you communicate more efficiently and effectively, ensuring your messages resonate with the public and media alike.
Want more example press releases? I’m happy to help…
Press Release Examples Across Several Industries
Finally, here are some tips and training to help you write an amazing press release:
Additional Press Release Resources
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Directory of Examples & Templates
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What is a Press Release?
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Click for Press Release Template & Format (including a blank press release example)
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Click to Learn How to Format a Press Release (+ Free Template and 80+ Examples)
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Click to Learn How to Write a Press Release
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Click to Learn How to Submit a Press Release
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To Write a Press Release Yourself or Not?
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80+ Example Press Releases
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Of course, you could always have us write and distribute your release — starting at a special combination price for new customers. Click here – Press Release Writing
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