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Among those attending public meetings, it is often the dedicated citizen advocates who show up. It is challenging to expand the participation base. The following is a summary of strategies to address this issue.
People are more likely to participate when:
They have a good understanding of why the topics and questions at stake are relevant to them and their community. The planners’ responsibility is to state why the topic is impactful for them, their families, their community, and/or their values.
They know that their voices will matter, and it will be clearly reflected in the final outcome.
The leadership opportunities truly share power with residents.
They trust the jurisdiction, the officials, the planners, or the planning process.
There are various options and channels simultaneously available to submit feedback throughout the entire planning process.
There are incentives and proper compensation for the community’s time and expertise in the form of a stipend, gift card, material goods, services, or shared resources that are commensurate with the community’s effort and participation.
Meetings are hosted at various times of the day and on different days throughout the week.
Meetings are hosted at accessible locations, taking into consideration mobility issues, language access, and other factors.
They can access the meeting location via different modes of transportation or via Zoom.
The environment is welcoming (e.g. music and food are available for attendees; meetings are child-friendly providing necessary child-care services; people with disabilities are aware of accommodations available to their needs at the meeting; people feel safe at the proposed meeting location).
Planners are more likely to engage more community members when:
They build relationships with community leaders, activists, and organizers. Identify the community leaders, build and earn their trust, and ask for their permission, collaboration, and suggestions to engage community members.
They collaborate with neighborhood-based organizations in outreach. They show empathy and understanding for the reasons why some people may never trust planners or the government.
They try to meet people where they are, such as grocery stores, laundromats, parks, churches, community centers, schools, and streets. Many of the places are accessible to people with disabilities.
They use various channels to reach out, including calls, text messages, social media, traditional media, yard signs, flyers, radio, and mailers.
They share knowledge and resources. Provide opportunities for community members to learn about urban planning, including its principles, strategy, and
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