Sometimes your questions make me chuckle a bit. I think it's fair to say that there are very few people that think the city does a good job of getting public input on issues facing the community. I really think the biggest reason why is they don't ever go to where the people are, and they don't invite ideas or initiatives in the form of citizen or business action councils. When is the last time we've had any sort of town hall where people can hear a plan and ask questions?
I believe that public input is important, but you have to work to get it. You have to spread that message in as many places and methods as possible. If you're the leader of a community, a city, I want to know what is going on, schedule a quarterly meeting in a place that doesn't feel so unwelcoming (the city building). Psychologically when you are in a place like that, that represents power, people naturally shy away from participating. Have meetings at the library, have them at different times of the day, have a live town hall online. But do SOMETHING...
Well, in 2018, I worked with Todd Severt to create a quarterly event where the at-large council members would go to different places and talk to residents. These events are still going strong, and they are becoming more and more well attended. I want to say at the last one that was had about 30 residents showed up.
But you are comments are right, simply sitting behind the dais isn't enough these days. Leaders need to do a better job to engage residents in their own community, and it all starts with responsive and responsible leadership.
If he does run again, we all have to be REALLY determined and diligent to get out there and talk to people. Although, I think having an open forum where people can come and discuss topics, like what Civic Capacity has become, is a great step in the right direction.
Well, I have always said that I were to be elected, I wanted to do more to open communication between residents and their local government. Even though I didn't win, this publication is certainly filling a void that currently exists.
Sometimes your questions make me chuckle a bit. I think it's fair to say that there are very few people that think the city does a good job of getting public input on issues facing the community. I really think the biggest reason why is they don't ever go to where the people are, and they don't invite ideas or initiatives in the form of citizen or business action councils. When is the last time we've had any sort of town hall where people can hear a plan and ask questions?
I believe that public input is important, but you have to work to get it. You have to spread that message in as many places and methods as possible. If you're the leader of a community, a city, I want to know what is going on, schedule a quarterly meeting in a place that doesn't feel so unwelcoming (the city building). Psychologically when you are in a place like that, that represents power, people naturally shy away from participating. Have meetings at the library, have them at different times of the day, have a live town hall online. But do SOMETHING...
Well, in 2018, I worked with Todd Severt to create a quarterly event where the at-large council members would go to different places and talk to residents. These events are still going strong, and they are becoming more and more well attended. I want to say at the last one that was had about 30 residents showed up.
But you are comments are right, simply sitting behind the dais isn't enough these days. Leaders need to do a better job to engage residents in their own community, and it all starts with responsive and responsible leadership.
I hadn't heard about these meetings! Where do you find information about them? I looked at the city webpage and that was a bust.
I believe the next one will be Saturday, November 2nd at the St. Patrick Soup Kitchen and will start at 9:00 a.m.
My life gets in the way sometimes and forgive me for not knowing but can you tell me where I can find info on these quarterly meetings
I believe the next one will be Saturday, November 2nd at the St. Patrick Soup Kitchen and will start at 9:00 a.m.
Please tell me you will run for mayor in the next election!!!!!!!
If he does run again, we all have to be REALLY determined and diligent to get out there and talk to people. Although, I think having an open forum where people can come and discuss topics, like what Civic Capacity has become, is a great step in the right direction.
Well, I have always said that I were to be elected, I wanted to do more to open communication between residents and their local government. Even though I didn't win, this publication is certainly filling a void that currently exists.
This is very true and much appreciated Bill.
Well, it's a long time between now and 2027.