Included here are public engagement terms, benefits, principles,
and best practices for involving residents and others in local
public decisions and actions.
Ten principles serve as helpful indicators of effective and
ethical public engagement practice by local agencies. These
principles may also help guide city, county and other local
officials in the design of public engagement processes and
strategies.
Described here are a number of guides that suggest steps and
strategies to achieving successful public engagement, primarily
at the local level. The list, compiled by the Institute for Local
Government, is intended to help county and city officials design
and use public engagement to address local issues and
controversies.
There are many terms that describe the involvement of the public
in civic and political life. We offer one set of terms and
definitions here to help draw important distinctions among the
various ways people can become involved. Understanding these
differences will help local officials “fit” the best approach (or
approaches) to the issue, policy or controversy at hand.
To better serve local government our website has moved
up to an improved platform. With any move, glitches can
happen – please let us know if you find any by emailing kplag@ca-ilg.org. Thank
you!
