The reserve banks contribute to policy through their role in the discussions and the number of votes they can cast (five out of a total of twelve) at FOMC meetings. At these meetings no fixed policy proposals are presented in advance, the aim being an open discussion where the various parties reach agreement through mutual persuasion.
Any decision should, after all, be endorsed by as many parties as possible. Obviously, in this American context, the chairman must be someone of considerable stature.