Once we are mentally committed to a community for the long run, everything in the city matters significantly more, whether the quality of the public schools, the beauty of the parks, the effectiveness of public services, the responsiveness of the police and fire departments, and countless other things that have an impact on our daily lives.
According to the Federation for Innovation in Democracy there are seven principles needed for a successful citizens’ assembly: representativeness, a clear remit, adequate time, diverse information, deliberation, a free response and a final report, and accountability. Here’s how those principles were put into effect in Canada’s Yukon Territory.
How do we move from systems never intended for everyone to thrive to systems that honor every person’s potential? It begins with everyday people and organizations committing to something larger than themselves, acting as stewards of the common good. Together, stewards work to ensure that everyone, without exception, has the vital conditions they need to flourish.
In February and April 2018, in neighborhoods across Springfield, participants deliberated various models of police oversight, identifying advantages and disadvantages. The discussions revealed broad concerns about the lack of independence, authority, and transparency in the existing oversight system.
How a charter review committee explored the complexities of using charter reform in efforts to establish a more consistent and inclusive mechanism for resident participation in municipal governance.
What happens when you combine the deliberative power of civic assemblies with the hands-on public engagement of participatory budgeting? New York City decided to find out.
The November 2024 election marked the debut of Portland’s new electoral system, featuring ranked choice voting for all offices. While ranking candidates is increasingly common, Portland stands out for combining ranked ballots with multi-seat districts.
Community potlucks create much-needed spaces for gathering and engaging in conversations with people we may not know well—conversations that foster a deeper connection to our communities and the broader world around us.
