AVOID THE SINS OF THE PAST BY GETTING
MEANINGFUL INPUT FROM MARGINALIZED PEOPLE
Communities that want to jump-start planning efforts, such as traffic-calming or zoning changes, can apply for AARP’s Community Challenge — a grant that funds about $12,000 in planning support.
More than $16 million has been given to more than 1,370
initiatives.
“The advice I would give folks, to reach diverse
stakeholders, is step out of your perspective and your comfort zone,” said Mike
Watson, director of Livable Communities at AARP.
“Surveys are helpful, but there is a difference between a
survey on a website and going to where the people are and actively listening.
Go to an inviting place, like a coffee shop, for
authentic input. You may need to create a comfortable place by creating a
pop-up demonstration.”
Watson said some cities don’t change to keep up with community
needs out of fear of opposition — opposition that might not be there.
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