Fostering a Vital Civic Environment

There are two sides to the public participation coin.

1. One involves actions by local leaders and agency to invite and encourage community participation in the decision-making process.
2. The other involves residents taking the initiative to express their concerns to local leaders and become involve in public decision-making processes.

The Institute’s public engagement program is designed to help local officials with the first element. This page offers resources of the second.

Resources for Residents Interested in Making a Difference in Local Decision-making

• Tipsheets on Common Land Use Decisions
• Working Effectively with Local Officials
• Preparing for Public Hearings
• Rosenberg’s Rules of Order

In addition, the Institute offers a series of nuts and bolts resources on general local government topic as part of its local government 101 program.

Note that many local agencies have citizen and police academies, as well as numerous boards and commissions in which residents may participate (check your local agency website for information on the latter).

This webpage is dedicated to the life and public service of Ruth Vreeland. Concerned resident, teacher, elected official, and Institute for Local Government board member, Ruth was an avid proponent of public involvement–particularly on land use and environmental issues.