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Increasing Civic Engagement

Government should work for the people. All people, not just those who have the time and means to show up to every city council meeting.

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Improving outcomes and meeting needs in our community should be a more collaborative process. City councils often leave the bulk of the collaborative work to the citizens, simply encouraging them to attend city council meetings. I believe it is the role of city council members to reach out to the community in creative ways. Angie will do more to seek feedback on city decisions from diverse groups so that the interests of all community members can be considered.

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Angie plans to create an online platform where residents can sign up to be consulted based on their local knowledge of the community. City council could take their information and forward surveys, open discussion forums, take polls, and ask for feedback on various plans. City council can reach out to specific communities and areas that are under represented in local government to recruit people for these consultations.

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"Walk-shops" are an effective means of increasing community involvement. It is difficult to understand the needs of an area without putting your feet on the ground and seeing it in person. City leaders can walk a designated area of a neighborhood with residents to better understand the impact of proposed changes, the needs of the specific area, or showcase improvements in an area or a program.

Walking the city will help us all understand how to create a city that promotes walking and biking instead of driving to reduce traffic and ensure that resources are within walking distances to all neighborhoods.

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When citizens can collaborate with city council effectively, acceptance of decisions increases and community members feel empowered and invested in making Layton a better place for everyone.