THE EVOLUTION OF COMMUNITY INPUT

TOOLKITS, TECHNIQUES, HIGH-TECH AND NON-TRADITIONAL/DIVERSE COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT HELPS TO MAKE PLANNING ABOUT PEOPLE

“What stymies being able to get broad public support is not doing the work before you tell the public you want to build something at Broad and 50th streets,” said Dr. Tiffany Manuel, president & founder of TheCase Made.

“That creates a sense of ‘you want my tax dollars, but what does this have to do with me?’

Engage all members of the community so they are respected, so they feel a stake in what you are trying to do and that they will have some benefit — even if they are not the primary beneficiaries.”

To reach diverse audiences, planners need to get outside their comfort zone.

Manuel said that means going to where people meet, getting invited to the kitchen table, meeting people at times beyond nine to five.

“We live in a pluralistic society.

Americans, no matter where they are, are saying they don’t trust the people who [should] be there to help them — their decisionmakers,” she said.

“I lead an organization that helps everyday people across the country to make a strong and powerful case for the highest and best aspirations for the community they like,” Manuel said.

“[A city official] has to deliver what you promised would happen. Trust is a currency that can do a great many things.”