Res 2011-129 - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Browse Search

Everyday communications will be presented to the public in the most easy -to- understand manner. Plain, non - technical formats for studies, reports and comprehensive communications will be encouraged. We will also develop strategies to address the needs of non - English speaking citizens. In an effort to achieve greater understanding of how municipal governments operate, we will facilitate public participation in City functions, such as Citizen Police and Fire Academies, community workshops and encourage service on boards and commissions. (5) Citizen Participation- Information Gathering/ Public Input. The City recognizes the value and importance of residents and advisory boards providing input, making recommendations or offering feedback on policies and issues of importance to them, their neighborhoods or to the City at large The City will continue to evaluate public participation processes to be sure they are clear and accessible. While many actions taken by the City require public notice, notice may not always reach every affected or interested resident. The City will carefully address identification and advance notification of interested groups and methods that allow healthy dialogue of varied interests in a collaborative process so that varied impacts, opinions and options can be considered. These guidelines will consider how the City can more effectively obtain valuable public input at critical stages in the decision - making process. The City will work collaboratively with all interested parties to achieve greater participation. City staff has been trained in the Systematic Development of Informed Consent (SDIC) process and will be utilized to gather input when appropriate. (6) Available Media. The City uses a variety of media to provide information to the public and will continue to expand the use of new avenues for effective communication. (a) Website. The City will make continuous improvements to the website to make the site more user - friendly and provide for easier "searchability" and "sortability" of information. City departments and divisions will be responsible for updating and keeping webpages current. The City website will offer avenues for citizens to ask questions or report concerns for response and action by the City. (b) Non - Electronic Media. The City will continue to use traditional means to communicate with citizens who do not have access to electronic media, including news releases, newsletters, bilingual communications, media outlets, letters, signs, posters, the library and city facilities, special events, and neighborhood outreach. 2