Ways a City Can Create Communication with Its Citizens

I have seen efforts over the last few years for improving communication with our citizens but we certainly have a long way to go. Canby is growing and not all citizens know where to get the latest information and the local watering hole. These are ways the city can improve its communication efforts in the 21st century.

Effective communication is crucial for a city to maintain trust, transparency, and a strong relationship with its citizens. Here are some strategies to achieve this:

Digital Platforms

• City Website: A well-designed and informative website can serve as a central hub for city news, services, and events. This works only if the information is up to date.
• Social Media: Utilizing platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram allows for real-time updates and two-way communication. Unlike retail or other social media strategies, city information on social media should be posted often as people tend to go directly to this resource for information, not just wait for it to show up in feeds.
• Mobile App: A city-specific app can provide personalized information, alerts, and access to services. I don’t think Canby is ready for this.
• Email Newsletters: Regular newsletters can keep residents informed about current projects, events, and important announcements. Curating the content and formatting newsletters does take a training and time but is worth it if the right format is found.

Public Meetings and Events

• Town Halls: These meetings offer a direct platform for citizens to ask questions, voice concerns, and provide feedback.
• Community Forums: More focused forums can address specific topics or neighborhoods. Canby has improved in creating these event but still needs improvement in advertising the events to all citizens.
• Public Hearings: These are required for certain decisions or projects and provide an opportunity for public input. These tend to happen when something goes wrong instead of a part of planning. A recent case would be the Dog Park issue.

Printed Materials

• City Newsletters: Physical newsletters can reach a wider audience, especially those who may not have regular internet access. This would be an improvement, event if quarterly or Bi Annual.
• Flyers and Brochures: These can be distributed at public events, libraries, and community centers. While this is done occasionally, they are not kept up to date. They seem to be one off efforts instead of part of an ongoing plan.

Community Outreach

• Neighborhood Meetings: Regular meetings can foster a sense of community and provide a platform for local concerns.
• Door-to-Door Outreach: Staff can visit homes to distribute information and gather feedback.
• Partnerships with Community Organizations: Collaborating with local groups can help reach specific demographics.

Accessibility and Inclusivity

• Translation Services: Ensure that information is available in multiple languages to serve diverse populations. 
• Accessibility Features: Consider the needs of individuals with disabilities by providing accessible formats (e.g., large print, audio) and accommodations.

Feedback Mechanisms: Make it easy for citizens to provide feedback, including anonymous options. This is certainly a pain point for our citizens and for me is a critical issue. Too often the city gets second hand information and interpretations instead of direct feedback from the community.